The Ichiban Don (formerly Willie B) tells the untold story behind Kendrick Lamar’s early rise and the making of “Ignorance Is Bliss.”

In this episode of Cult Media’s Creative Series, legendary producer and artist The Ichiban Don (formerly known as Willie B) shares the untold story behind some of the most important records in the early rise of Top Dawg Entertainment. Growing up in Lynwood, California, The Ichiban Don talks about how a childhood surrounded by music, art, and the Black and Brown culture of Los Angeles shaped his creative identity. Influenced early on by artists like N.W.A and Ice Cube, he first began rapping before eventually discovering his passion for production.The conversation dives deep into the making of Ignorance Is Bliss, the breakout track that helped put Kendrick Lamar on the radar of the industry and eventually caught the attention of Dr. Dre. The Ichiban Don explains how the beat sat for years before reaching Kendrick and how the moment he heard it performed live confirmed the record’s impact. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories about producing for ScHoolboy Q and Ab-Soul, including the emotional creation of “Soul Cry,” the story behind Q’s track “Kamikaze,” and his role in shaping the early sound of the Black Hippy era.Beyond TDE, The Ichiban Don discusses his evolution as both a producer and artist, the formation of the creative collective Room Full of Mirrors, and the inspiration behind his latest project Shogun. The album blends Japanese cultural influences with classic boom-bap production and West Coast swing, paying homage to the music that shaped him growing up.Throughout the interview, The Ichiban Don reflects on collaboration, creativity, and the importance of staying authentic in hip-hop. From producing classics for TDE to rediscovering his voice as an artist, this conversation gives fans a rare look into the mind of a producer who helped shape the sound of a generation.