Gilly, an established figure in the rap scene, began by reflecting on his tumultuous relationship with Jay-Z, acknowledging that it has had its “ups and downs.” He described the Rock Nation brunch as a mere façade, suggesting that it serves as a platform for Jay-Z to reinforce his dominance while manipulating the careers of emerging artists. “It’s nothing but Jay-Z putting a bunch of people on the lawn and then going in the back door saying, ‘I told you I still run this,’” Gilly remarked, implying that the event is more about image than genuine connection.