Rex Kudo: Losing Everything in the LA Fires to Making Hits for Post Malone, Juice WRLD, Lil Uzi Vert #67
Everything You Need to Know
In episode 67 of “Go With Elmo,” host Elmo Lovano sits down for an intimate conversation with acclaimed songwriter and producer Rex Kudo. The episode, titled “Rex Kudo: Making Hits for Post Malone, Juice WRLD, Lil Uzi Vert to Losing Everything in the LA Fires” takes listeners on a journey through loss, resilience, and musical genius. As Kudo shares stories from his stellar career and his recent experience of losing his home and studio to the LA wildfires, this episode is an inspiring look at creativity, adversity, and the spirit of community.
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About the Guest: Rex Kudo
Rex Kudo is a prolific force in modern-day hip hop and pop, known for his musical alchemy with artists such as Post Malone, Juice WRLD, Lil Uzi Vert, ASAP Rocky, J. Cole, Skrillex, DJ Khaled, Mac Miller, Roddy Ricch, Future, Young Thug, and Trippie Redd. His breakthrough came with Post Malone’s “White Iverson,” a song that catapulted both Post and Rex into the mainstream. Beyond the chart-toppers, Rex is revered for his humble, community-driven approach and his deeply philosophical, positive outlook—even in the face of immense loss.
Episode Highlights
A Night Owl’s Brush with Disaster
Rex, a self-proclaimed night owl, recounts the harrowing night of the LA fires. After working late in his home studio, he awoke to a barrage of missed calls and texts warning him of an evacuation. In a cinematic turn, he grabbed his essential possessions—hard drives containing the last decade of his music, treasured synthesizers, Pink Floyd gear, and a sentimental Mercedes inherited from his late father—and escaped as flames descended on his neighborhood.
The evacuation story is both dramatic and revealing. Rex’s focus on saving not only the physical manifestations of his career but also irreplaceable mementos speaks to his values and priorities. Despite the loss of both his home and studio, Rex’s calm, almost zen-like acceptance stuns the host and listeners alike.
Embracing Loss with Optimism
What’s most striking is Rex’s response to disaster. Rather than wallow, he moves forward with an outlook shaped by zen philosophy, personal loss (having lost his father two years prior), and an understanding of impermanence. He sees the experience as an “adventure” and a “challenge”—an opportunity to practice holding onto inner peace despite turmoil. Rex’s philosophical wisdom is a thread throughout the episode, encouraging listeners to focus on what truly matters and find growth in uncomfortable places.
The Power of Community
The outpouring of support from the music community after the fire is a recurring theme. Friends, collaborators, and even artists like A$AP Rocky opened their studios and homes to Rex in his time of need. For Rex, this outpouring reinforced the importance of relationships and the beauty of giving and receiving within a compassionate network. He credits his community for keeping him grounded and inspired, calling the experience “overwhelming in the best way.”
The Genesis of Iconic Hits
Rex offers fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his musical journey:
- “White Iverson” Origin Story: Created at 7:30 in the morning after an all-nighter, the song’s “instantaneous” specialness marked a turning point for both Rex and Post Malone. Rex reveals the serendipity of that session—Post persistently pushed for the track, and the two found themselves on the brink of something unforgettable.
- Collaborating with Visionaries: Rex details his work with Young Thug, Lil Uzi Vert, Roddy Ricch, and others, emphasizing the rare drive and willingness to learn he’s seen in artists like Roddy. He explains how true stars combine natural talent with relentless curiosity and a commitment to constant growth.
- Jamming at Shangri-La: During COVID lockdown, Rex and Skrillex took creative refuge at Rick Rubin’s Shangri-La studio, gathering a rotating cast of A-list musicians for epic, collaborative jam sessions. With Kid Cudi, Ty Dolla $ign, members of the Beach Boys and Incubus, and others dropping by, Rex describes the magic of these “lightning in a bottle” moments, where genre boundaries and egos dissolve in the name of musical exploration.
Artistry, Intention, and the “Why”
One section of the episode explores the deeper purpose behind creativity. Influenced by Rick Rubin’s zen-infused production style, Rex now approaches music as a living entity, asking the song itself what it wants to be. This approach, he shares, has elevated his productions and led him to question his intention with each project. For Rex, success is as much about the “why”—the underlying intention—as about the technical craft.
Remembering Juice WRLD
Rex shares emotional memories of the late Juice WRLD, describing him as pure, sincere, and immensely talented. Their collaborative process was “never work,” just “creating and having fun.” Rex underscores how Juice’s vulnerability and honesty connected so deeply with fans and how his passing left both a personal and creative void.
Reflections on Resilience and Looking Forward
Towards the end, Rex contemplates the future. After a decade in the business, he aspires to use all he’s learned to uplift the next generation and give back as his mentors have. He remains committed to music, community, and staying present, embracing the unpredictable rollercoaster that is life as an artist.
Key Takeaways
- Adversity is Inevitable, Response is Everything: Rex’s story is a powerful reminder that loss—whether of a home, studio, or collaborator—is a part of life, but our outlook and ability to adapt shape our future.
- Creativity Thrives in Community: No matter how much talent one has, community is the soil where art truly flourishes.
- Intention Matters: The “why” behind the music gives longevity and depth to creative work.
- Legacy is Connection: The greatest impact comes not just from chart success, but from helping others, building community, and creating honest, vulnerable art.
Final Thoughts
Episode 67 of “Go With Elmo” is more than a story about losing everything and bouncing back—it’s about perspective, passion, and persistence. Rex Kudo’s journey, both tragic and triumphant, offers listeners valuable lessons on resilience and staying true to what really matters. If you’re looking for inspiration, insight into the creative process, or a reminder of music’s unifying spirit, this conversation is a must-listen.
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