Soren Baker & The Gucci Mane Guide To Greatness

We speak to the author about the new motivational book he wrote with Gucci Mane and his career in writing.

What aspect of Gucci’s transformation is most impressive to you?

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It’s so impressive to me that he stuck with it. It’s one thing to decide to change your life as he has. That first step is key. You have to know you need to change and want to make a change. But to actually do it is what makes it remarkable. He lost around 100 pounds, got in great shape, and is very focused on his family, his business, and his life. He’s locked in and isn’t falling off. That’s impressive. 

Was anything surprising working with Gucci? What were your expectations?

I expected that I would have a lot of fun working with Gucci. We have a lot in common, which made working on the book very easy once we got going. I was a bit surprised with how funny he is. He puts some funny lines in his music, but he had me laughing pretty hard sometimes. At the same time, when he’s focused on something, he’s locked in. It’s remarkable.

How was writing this book different than your last?

My last book was “The History Of Gangster Rap.” I interviewed more than 30 artists for the book, including Schoolly D, Ice-T, MC Ren, MC Eiht, DJ Quik, RBX, Cold 187um, CJ Mac, and Big Tray Deee. WIth “The Gucci Mane Guide To Greatness,” I just talked with Gucci. That’s a huge difference right there. Furthermore, “The History Of Gangster Rap” tells a story from about 1985 up until 2017 or 2018. “The Gucci Mane Guide To Greatness” is Gucci’s outlook on life, how to improve yourself, and lessons he’s learned. They are very different types of books.

How different is a book release cycle during COVID?

With “The History Of Gangster Rap,” I did book signings all throughout Southern California and one in Maryland. With “The Gucci Mane Guide To Greatness,” neither Gucci nor I did any in-person events to promote the book. That’s a big difference and disappointing because I know his fans would show up in droves to support him and the book.

How big of a fan of Gucci’s music were you before collaborating with him? What’s your favorite song/album?

I’ve been listening to Gucci since 2005, give or take. I’ve been a fan the entire time. I was going to Atlanta and the South semi-regularly around that time, so I heard a lot of his early material. He’s got more than 100 projects, so it’s hard to pick a favorite. But, I really liked “Mr. Zone 6.” 


What was your favorite piece of advice from the book?

There are so many. One important one is to “Learn to Compartmentalize.” Gucci talks about your mind being your main organizational tool. You have to know when to focus on what, and when to leave things for another time. That’s a key to life. With all the distractions we have, it’s an important lesson.

What do you view as your biggest career accomplishment?

My biggest accomplishment is that I’ve been able to live my dream. I fell in love with rap when I was 10. By the time I was 12, I knew I wanted to do something with rap for a living. I’ve been able to do that, which is a blessing. I am living my dreams.

Have you started your next book?

I have some book ideas that I’m working on. If all goes well, I’ll lock at least one of them in by the end of the year. 

How did it feel the moment you realized you would be able to have a career in music journalism and writing? Do you remember it?

I remember getting my first check for writing. It was for $5 and I got it in college, writing for the student newspaper at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. That was a pivotal moment for me because I never thought that I could have a career as a writer. But that check made me believe that I could make a career from writing. I’ve been writing ever since. 

Do you have any thoughts on the new 1017?

I think the new 1017 project shows that Gucci has no plans to stop. He’s always working on finding new talent and getting it out there. 

1 Comment on "Soren Baker & The Gucci Mane Guide To Greatness"

  1. My nephew Soren continues to amaze. He is so hardworking and driven. As a 79 year old guy, I am slow on the uptake but it am getting there.

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