DJ Mormile Reveals How Drake’s “Forever” With Eminem Actually Happened

In the latest episode of the 3rd Verse Podcast, veteran executive DJ Mormile revealed the chaotic origin of the 2009 hit “Forever.” Originally curated for LeBron James’ More Than A Game documentary, the track began as a smaller collaboration before Mormile saw its massive potential. “When I first heard that record, it was Drake’s verse and a hook. And then G said, there is version with Lil Wayne on it and the version with Kanye West on it,” Mormile explained.

Recognizing a generational opportunity, Mormile decided to push the records boundaries further by reaching out to Eminem’s camp. Despite the song’s unconventional length, he was determined to unite the four titans of hip-hop on a single track. “I was like ‘G, this is it! We need to get Marshall on this record!’… I was like ‘F–k it man, put all four on the record. Who cares how long it is?! This is the moment!'”

The gamble paid off when Eminem’s manager, Paul Rosenberg, confirmed the Detroit legend was on board. For Mormile, securing that final verse was a career-defining achievement that earned him rare praise from Interscope co-founder Jimmy Iovine. “I remember when Paul hit me back ‘yo, Em f–ks with it and he’s gonna do it.’… It was one of the few times Jimmy Iovine ever gave me props in the staff meeting. He said I saved Christmas,” he recalled.

Reflecting on the final product, Mormile praised the chemistry between the four artists and the production by Boi-1da that tied the anthem together. While every artist delivered, he noted that one performance in particular stood out as otherworldly. “Drake went crazy, Ye’s verse was great and Wayne’s too but Eminem comes from Mars and the beat switch, it was fantastic and it was great for Boi-1da,” Mormile concluded.

You can watch the episode below: