August Alsina Clears the Air about Def Jam Tweets & Dealing with Life's Struggles Through Music

With his brand new album "This Thing Called Life" out for all the world to hear, the always telling August Alsina stopped by the Sway in the Morning studios to catch up with the team.
After calling out Def Jam last week for leaking his album one day before the release date we hear Alsina speak from the heart about the situation. Having worked hard and having people to feed he admits the tweets came from frustration. Speaking more about label culture and the way mainstream music functions Alsina preaches the importance of being true to yourself.
Dealing with his emotions through making music we hear a good amount of pain in "This Thing Called Life." Crafting interludes and intros out of late night thoughts it's inspiring to hear Alsina explain how the music from this album came out.
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August Alsina Clears the Air about Def Jam Tweets & Dealing with Life's Struggles Through Music | Sway's Universe
• August Alsina Clears t...
Sway’s Universe
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[@madeleinegeorge27]

August is so Passionate... he's so grateful to God.... And that's honorable.

[@jordnkris]

Lol God....

[@imherebecause...657]

yeah and universe is so much better?

[@madeleinegeorge27]

+FatBGone what do you think?

[@imherebecause...657]

Madame La what do u think?

[@madeleinegeorge27]

I believe he's very aware of his existence and purpose. The struggle is staying focus and grounded. A few find their life and have the strength to ensure the battle. I'm watching his journey. That's All!!

[@samuelbienemy5996]

I love the fact that he actually acknowledges God. Even though he's going through what he's going through, and it's having a good and bad impact on his life. He still believes, for most people, that wouldn't be.

[@riannataylor5561]

yesss exactly ! 👏

[@omarquintero2479]

+anthonybloodin having more money don't mean all your issues magically go away my dude More money more problems

[@omarquintero2479]

+anthonybloodin +anthonybloodin the amount of money you have never equates to the amount of problems you have. You can be broke with not one issue and be fine like that But you can be filthy rich and your whole life is full of problems from family to mental to even financial. And vice versa And that may be true but my problems can't be grouped or compared to yours cuz their completely different being rich almost never solves your problems completely

[@samuelbienemy5996]

it all depends on your mindset, rich or broke, you can be happy rich, and you can be happy broke... if I was sad, i'd much rather be rich and sad

[@kushdaddy144]

+Samuel Bienemy Ever see a person frown on a jetski? Thought so.

[@MySavageDynasty]

He's the hope for my generation. Nobody is talking about the real stuff like him. J.Cole, Kendrick, and August are some of the realist people. They give me hope. For all the people who are hating on him, they don't see how important this is. They see all the negativity and not the positivity. All I can say is the real ones will make it.

[@willemdee]

real shit, you would hope the guys that take this craft serious will be supported and be the representations of our generation.

[@hwee20]

Vince staples and mick Jenkins are also crazy artists

[@MySavageDynasty]

hwee20 good crazy or bad crazy?

[@hwee20]

+Jay Bugatti good crazy. Check them out. You'll probably like them. Vince staples is from long Beach and mick Jenkins is from Chicago

[@MySavageDynasty]

hwee20 I'm hip about Vince staples, I just don't know about Mick Jenkins, but I'll look him up

[@Pikathunderboltt]

I love August and everything about him, especially the fact that he is honest, talented and unique in his own way. And his music speaks the truth, it's that real, theraputic r&b.

[@HoneyLove40]

Wifey 得 Yesssss

[@cassiewalker904]

Exactly

[@joshuagunter7514]

Y'all should stop hating on his clothing choice, it's his life and he's doing great! God bless you Aug!

[@itsdayshh4383]

This Thing Called Life is EVERYTHINGGG ;-;

[@dayshathurman9344]

That just made me love him even more. Nothing is more important than to have a relationship with God. And, people try to make it seem like all famous people serve the devil but that's far from the truth. He's just an inspiration!! ♥♡

[@HoneyLove40]

Daysha Thurman Yes He is and He speaks and lives his truth

[@jpat989]

I missed August's appearances. I hope in the near future he comes and visits Sway nem. His interviews are always so interesting. Also, the crew seem to genuinely like him. And when he comes, make sure he has an hour. He is worth listening too.

[@jayyjayy5215]

I think that if August never made it out the game, he'd either be dead or in jail and always on the news. He made the best decision for himself. August gives me hope when I feel hopeless, and he helps me look at things from a different perspective.

[@missme1990]

Mannnn as if I couldn't LOVE this dude anymore, he goes & does an interview like this!!!!!! I bought the album the day it came out & listen to it daily. My favorite song depends on my mood or the day but THANK U to this dude for NOT being the "typical" R&B artist & for using his platform in an amazing way. God bless u. Much respect to Sway, my #BayArea homie, & Heather B who's the realest. Tracy was in her ish about this album, Salute! The callers were on point as well. Great Interview!

[@foreveramorie]

he’s so humble and he knows that god is the only person w/ answers for his life and he’s so strong! love him❤️ y’all gotta accept him!

[@trapqueen4149]

He's speaks nothing but true words out of his mouth on interviews and songs

[@thestrategicoreo]

Tbh August music speaks 2 me & it helps me through soo much moments im goin through a lot with my bro & my family & my close friends who r like family 2 me & I just have a lot & every time im in my emotions August & his music is there soo salute 2 August & thank u man him & kendrick lamar & j cole is the realest in the game & the best in the game

[@angelinacole1547]

His interviews are everything. ❤️😊 Good interview ✔️❤️

[@YNGM1991]

August searching for something that can only be found in Jesus Christ

[@HoneyLove40]

YNGM1991 I agree your absolutely right Amen

[@heishalynch6551]

Amen!!

[@jpat989]

Jesus Serapis is a fictional character created at the Nicene Council 325.

[@aniyalenn]

He is so smart and intelligent I love him so much😘❤️😆

[@AdrianSasser]

I continue to SALUTE this young fella and, I'd still love to hear a track with him Ft. Lyfe Jennings though..

[@pr3ttynola535]

so in love with this man years later he is forever my favorite person till this day my husband for life

[@danai.4239]

This guy always had a sad interesting life...... Being a good girl growing up with both my parents in my life I feel blessed because from what I see not alot of people have that. Sadly, his rough life is what leads me to support him... Because of me feeling sorry for him... I needa meet him again.. Soon.....

[@jonplayemade]

real authentic dude right there. real music, real struggle and a 🔥🔥 album

[@HoneyLove40]

JON E. Yessss

[@stephanieslife9978]

I love his realness love you aug!

[@ciaralove247]

August needs to be a mentor for the young people!!!

[@chriswhite7691]

Much more active than breakfast club interview

[@wife0fsunwoo]

chriswhite7691 yesssss i cannot stress this enough

[@jpat989]

Heather brings a mature, grown woman presence. She does not ask him questions about his sex life or just stupid questions.

[@riannataylor5561]

this is why I fw August 👏

[@wxrdomxlouly1341]

August's mindset kinda reminds me of Pac...

[@dbt365]

I actually kinda agree with that

[@lifewithuneke7501]

Yeah it do

[@tylerdeeges9296]

Especially when he was explaining how he stands on what he says like when “it’s fuck you, that means fuck you “

[@LadyZ-A-R_GQ]

Yes , he is spiritually and mentally matured

[@madeleinegeorge27]

wxrdo xo That’s exactly what Jada Pinkette-Smith got attracted to 🤔

[@choklit4u]

this is such a grown up radio station. You bring out the best in people bc when I saw August on TBC uumm they were pretty childish.

[@DevAllDay]

August does the most authentic interviews, and Sway hit it on the nail in the into about his life unfolding in front of us, still going on today.

[@yvettdlemon852]

**Thank you so much August for all of your Love, Music, Truth, & Support. Not only your music , but your Wisdom, Determination, Advices,Understanding, & Faith is what draw me closer to you as a fan & a supporter. I've watch you grow as I intelligent & talented you man to One of the most inspiring& voiceful men in the world & music business. From the stories you've told from your personal experiences in New Orleans to the person to Your personal experiences now has set a huge status & love to 85% of people in this world. FYI:& that's not bad for someone who only been out for 3 in a half years. To sum this up, your one of the most admiring person I know & I love u. So shake of ur demons & keep going. Keep loving Jehovah God. 💟💟💟💟

[@sh-rt5dq]

FACTS

[@wife0fsunwoo]

like he has really grown so much. people fail to realize that god has been with him since day 1 and everybody goes through trials and tribulations and they end up pulling away but august was obedient and didnt ask questions or lose faith and look at where god has taken him!! people need to open their eyes. life isnt a fairytale. i cant say much because im only 15 and still living under my moms roof so i cant make much of a difference but i swear i would if i was old enough to do something. like i never went what he went through but he is just so real. and i cannot stress that enough like frfr all these artists talking about NOTHING. so people wanna shun the few artists who actually got something to say? like imma rest my case. AUGGIE I LOVE U😍

[@uniquelyjasminec]

Much respect to August! This was a great interview! This Thing Called Life is amazing!

[@ZenTNation]

i dont do this but i have to have to say how much i truly appreciate this young nan. very single interview i watch with August i feel as if he's telling my story. i so much appreciate your candidness and ability to be so honest. please never change bro

[@chakabantou]

Dope, I always enjoy his interviews on Sway's

[@sh-rt5dq]

Right so AUTHENTIC and Real

[@122gurls]

been waiting for this to come out forever 😩 Finally‼️

[@KeParkJeon]

he's literally AMAZING 😍😍💜💜💜💜👍

[@malcolmx2pac326]

If you going to sell drugs be the best dope dealer you could be! August Alsina

[@SuperTruthful]

+Malcolmx2Pac ..He right. If you gonna do it, do it to the fullest, you're going to jail or die anyway, so be in that moment. You're taking his point out of context but it was intentional...I know.

[@malcolmx2pac326]

There's nothing wrong with being a great drug dealer. This is the USA

[@melindamarcum318]

I always be somewhere back in the cut checking him out. I know it will always be real and interesting. I can only vividly imagine where he will be in 5 years so on so forth. I love August today tomorrow and always. His human nature is immaculate.

[@andreanabrinson6425]

I certainly purchased the album and it is good to hunny. I'm a big august fan I'm not really tweeter savy but if I could tweet to him how much I love him and his music and he read it that would make my day he is such a inspiration to young people and in older people trying get things right but struggle on the way so amazing. #TeamAlsinaNation

[@HoneyLove40]

andreana brinson Very True Indeed

[@angelinacole1547]

andreana brinson very true. I got the album and I like it as well.

[@lambo8866]

i like the dude seems genuine to himself aint nothin wrong with speaking your mind bless up

[@donnaerwin1897]

I love hearing from august alsina

[@bluntfac]

That american dream hits the chakras....Nice Track

[@HoneyLove40]

I love you August keep speaking that real baby we need someone like you in this generation and I'm loving your new album

[@daykierabryant9115]

I love August .. this is such a dope interview 😭😍

[@bowiehs]

always love his interviews!

[@MrKingRoyalty]

Legit one of my fav albums this year great ass underrated album tbh

[@TheLovely990]

I love the album! This came out right on time. Been around the world, Job. dreamer, and song cry are my favorites! I play Job everyday on my way to work, because one day I will be working for myself.

[@martinemckay3430]

August is So Real I Love you ❤️💕

[@OriginalBoondocksXVIII]

Some of y'all focus on the dumbest shit, man. Great interview and great album.

[@GoogleAccount00]

+Jay Gee Agree!!! Small minds and great album.

[@moneymatters8457]

+Jay Gee exactly

[@madeleinegeorge27]

+Jay Gee They've lost the whole point of his mission.

[@trapqueen4149]

Exactly like focusing on artist like young thug smdh

[@angelinacole1547]

Jay Gee Agreed. I like this album a lot. People are so irritating.

[@Kllutchman2k11]

It’s sad how people get so caught up with these labels and titles that society has forced us to believe in. Homosexuality has never consisted of your fashion wear, ( unless you wear something that is strictly for a specific gender type) then you can disclose it as being “feminine or masculine.” Homosexuality is a relationship between people of the SAME SEX !!! It is in no way in relation to your choice in the clothes you wear. People are so small minded and bias that they cannot understand when someone and something is behind their expectation or beyond their “norm.” Just because August Alsina dresses in a way that is comfortable for him, that does not mean his sexuality has been altered or conformed. It just simply means that he is now at a point in his career/ life where he can have a taste for different clothing and styles. As opposed to when he first came out. He doesn’t look like he’s the guy coming straight out the hood anymore. So to me the clothes he wears is symbolic to his growth.

[@eet6067]

Shaé Amor I agree with you. SMH at some of the comments. No one really comment on his growth. Crabs in barrel syndrome. He's a beautiful man. If he wanted to he could model also.

[@dajuhneabell1186]

I thank you, k michelle, j cole and jhene aiko for speaking to me through the music you all make true ARTISTS👏👏

[@ahmedfiasco6412]

new album is dope

[@divineselfentity]

This interview is low-key a church service, I love it.

[@sh-rt5dq]

High key a Revival ok

[@sanzzt5120]

I unequivocally love this man's spirit @augustalsina. It's like he's waaaay ahead of his time. The pure of heart shall see God. ♥️🙏Rom. 1:9

[@sarahashouri]

OH MY GOD I LOVE AUGUST!!!! OH MY GOOOOOOOODDDDDDDDD

[@LexB1995]

My favorite album this year 🔥👌👏

[@jusamakeover]

A+ interview

[@damiandewitt7865]

never watched an interview that long 👌

[@zuhuurrose4499]

August😩❤️❤️

[@SuperTruthful]

August is an inspiration to the younger generation. He needs more exposure to some real movers and shakers in the world that are black and doing some dynamic things. I hope he finds a woman to share his life with at this point. Everyone needs to start getting into politics, reading what these folks are about and actually voting in every single election. Vote Blue.

[@tythecreatorrr1744]

He really is. But our generation doesnt want to listen.

[@wife0fsunwoo]

my baby bop😍

[@raquelmurphy89]

he always speak real shit !

[@akemithompson5794]

keep on. your. grind. baby. boy

[@kmoney5492]

August Alsina throwing out This Called Life Gems

[@trece5469]

cool album...

[@martinemckay3430]

August You will be The in my 👀👀

[@martinemckay3430]

August 👀👀❤️❤️😇👼🏾🎁🎁

[@coolzizable]

28:58 Heather B adlibs fire "EL CHAPO"

[@danai.4239]

At 28:55 sway was like, "wait, where is this going?" That's exactly what I said on that part. Lmao.....

[@zuhuurrose4499]

August 😩❤️❤️

[@evelli9]

Sway took it to the next level with that new hat colorway. #2016 a shift is coming

[@ginabood3239]

Love ur work....respect!!!!

[@daviddebose7502]

I fucks with August both album's jam especially that first one you could feel the hunger for greatness and the struggle he came from. Still bang that shit on the daily second album is hard but that first one gets jammed on the daily basis

[@Hov..]

I actually thought about this and to August defense I'll say that you can't judge the way he looks at this point because he is an R&b singer that got money now and when you got a lil money you can dress how you want BOOM! Sn: I got hair too but I would never get twists or whatever that is lol

[@jcampbell7878]

come on son namsayin son u braided ya beard son remember that son namsayin 😁😁😁 jk

[@treysongzloverism]

Aayee!! Tate Kobang represent #Bmore

[@missme1990]

Go cop #TTCL #ThisThingCalledLife ASAP

[@murjansconcierge]

All this information and people find time to comment on aug's clothing choice. wow

[@quashawndriamaddox3990]

Murjans concierge I agree. I feel like that's the only thing they talk about

[@TijasWorld]

12:32 #MESSAGE

[@aaronblack2101]

7:00 yall welcome

[@geraldjordan6419]

This is like an intervention interview

[@kriskenard]

I'm 23 now and I don't know a thing. Is dude's album worth the purchase?

[@martinemckay3430]

👀👀❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😇👼🏾

[@itayig.kahari393]

they treating Aug like he has not made it yet,like they are still waiting for his arrival like when he dropped I luv this shit or until he gets a grammy

[@johnmiles6147]

Yall know Tracy talkin bout Chris

[@iamnissi]

September Alsina 😂😂 I’m doneee

[@dschadrac1]

I think this kid has the potential to be one of the greatest but he doesn't understand that the stuff he raps about in his interviews is what he needs to put in his records. Rap/sing about about your growth and your new experiences and say nothing in your interview. Just promote your albums.

[@CuttyBanks]

PRINCE Alsina woulda been a better name.

[@dantunes339]

6:26... Pause TracyG

[@TheDollarsign180]

Get NF on here!

[@jordanaguirre3514]

who else heard travis scott in the beginning?

[@brucekent9085]

How old is Tracy G? She made 23 sound like he was a baby, but she doesn't look that old herself. She looks like she is from my age group(28). She could be older, but I can't see it being that much older.

[@k.c6808]

he said no bullshit I thought about Chris Brown

[@takeoffgang7458]

no comments

[@thestrategicoreo]

Wait what did deaf jam do 2 August

[@linbee9461]

His accent is not as deep like this anymore.I miss it tho

[@CamboyGDubbz]

TOP 5 RADIO SHOWS 1.Big Boy's Neighbourhood 2.Sway 3.Rae Sremmurd on Ebro in the Morning 4.Pete Rosenberg on Ebro in the Morning 5.Howard Stern DONT HATE JUST MY OPINION

[@REALTRUEJOURNEY]

nah fam lol

[@CamboyGDubbz]

+True Journey yo i said dont hate

[@geraldjordan6419]

+Camboy GW Power 105.1?

[@julianclanton6603]

Your list is invalid without breakfast club!!!

[@williamanthony9302]

Ebro is a hating ass foo!!!!

[@Tayamyre]

so wearing a sweater that fit you means you dress like a woman?. ok yall

[@lovelyrae]

Right‼️ would y'all rather him sag his pants and wear tight shirts like a gangster 🙄

[@BugattiBoy66]

True, but that jacket look like sum that would come out of the JC Penny womens section lmao

[@jpat989]

He's dressed like a grown man.

[@kamrongaut3045]

its gerald green

[@babygirlaballer6346]

gimme yo ring lmaooooo 😂😂😂

[@qgreen100]

Real Nigga

[@zamyarodgers5194]

AUGUST ALSINA IS THE BEST ARTIST OUT HERE NOW WHO EVER IS HATING ON HIM FVCK YALL DONT KNOW HOW HE GOT HERE HE IS THE REALEST N:GGA I WILL EVER KNOW IN MY LIFETIME HE DOING THIS FOR US YALL NEED SOME GOD IN YALL LIFE I REALLY WANT TO MEET U AUGUST I LOVE U FROM DAY ONE HE HUSTLE TO GET TO WERE HE AT NOW I REALLY LOVE U AUGUST SOME PEOPLE LIKE U BC OF UR HANDSOME LOOKS I LOVE HIM FOR HIMSELF AND HIS MUSIC I REALLY DO I LOVE U AUGUST AND I REALLY WANT TO MEET U.HIS FAMILY DONT EVEN CARE ABT HIM THATS REALLY SAD WELL IM A 11 AND A GIRL

[@kelalove9747]

An idle mind is the Devil’s playground.

[@moonmanmike1343]

thats dej loaf

[@MiyshoiCollins]

@FearlessP4P1 😀 I don't think he look fruity . Leave my baby alone though . 😘😍