Lupe Fiasco decided to clarify some things regarding his acrimonious departure from Atlantic Records several years ago. The Chicago-born rapper famously fought to sever ties with the major label after his 2015 album Tetsuo & Youth. This Monday (April 1), after a fan implied that Fiasco departed Atlantic over simple creative differences, Lupe said that was not the case.

“Not accurate,” Lupe tweeted. “I was comfortable making pop records. The issue was who controlled those records and what the ownership and splits were. Atlantic would only promote my records if they owned a large portion of them or if I signed a 360 deal. I gave Bruno Mars Just The Way You Are.”

Lupe pointed the finger at statements from both Lyor Cohen, then-President of WMG, and Atlantic Records Head of Urban, Mike Kyser.

“‘I cannot guarantee we will promote your records if you are not a 360 artist on the label.’ -Lyor Cohen President Of Warner Music 2008,” he wrote. “‘We don’t think BattleScars is a good look for you so we’re not gonna sign off on the release.’ – Mike Kyser Head Of Urban Atlantic Records 2012.”

Fiasco then explained that it was the label seemingly turning in it's approach that soured his relationship with Atlantic.

“The issue was never my ability to make hit or pop records. The issue wasn’t even the business per se. My contracts were solid. It’s when the label didn’t want to abide by the contracts anymore and started throwing shitty little curveballs out of FOMO and greed. All bad after that.”

He further explained that he understands how majors work but didn't appreciate the way things played out.

“It’s a team. Let win as a team. They were calling fouls on our own plays AFTER we already won the game!! I was like WTF are y’all doing??? After The Cool I was done. I stuck around to complete my contract but I checked out in 09. I only put this out there again & again cuz folks think I be full of ego and or that I’m some hard to work with artist etc. but I’ve been in some deeply wack situations in this business that took all kinds of adjustments to stay sane and progress. I protect my peace at all costs.”