Producer Mike Free Says Big Sean’s “IDFWU” Was Originally For Justin Bieber

Mike Free just wants you to recognize. You may not know it, but the South Central-bred producer is one of the architects of your house party, your hazy nights at the club, your after-work commute. A pipe dream born in a Virginia dorm room has become one of the most unstoppable runs in recent memory: After helping to craft Tyga’s “Rack City” in 2011, Free—often alongside DJ Mustard—constructed much of what dominates radio today, including hits for Big Sean, Ty Dolla $ign and YG.

The heist hasn’t gone off without hitches, though. Free is currently embroiled in a legal battle with Mustard over credit, publishing and compensation for a handful of songs, some of them major hits.

XXL caught up with the producer while he was grinding away in Atlanta, working with Lil Bibby and other rappers and R&B singers. Measured and thoughtful, Free spoke about aspiring to work with his heroes (Eminem was an early favorite; Timbaland and The Neptunes helped shape his percussion) and whether he sees himself as an innovator. “I can’t really see it right now," Free says in answer to that last question. "I guess I need to keep my head down and keep innovating.” —Paul Thompson