When it comes to Atlanta rap, few names resonate louder than Young Thug and Gunna. But behind the hits and headlines lies something even more telling — their drastically different approaches to making music. On a recent episode of It’s Up There Podcast with Loon, YSL co-founder Mondo pulled back the curtain on the creative processes that separate these two Southern powerhouses. What he shared wasn’t about beef — it was about brilliance.
According to Mondo, Thug is a “mastermind” in the studio. He doesn’t need a notepad, structure, or second takes. He just feels the music. His process is instinctual, spiritual even. Gunna, on the other hand, thrives on repetition and preparation. “He needs structure,” Mondo says, noting that Gunna’s style is more calculated and deliberate. Loon compared it best: Thug is like a poet flowing from emotion, while Gunna moves like an architect — precise, layered, and methodical.
The conversation also touched on the emotional weight both artists carry post-RICO. Mondo believes Thug should lean into the pain of what he’s endured, embracing darker, more introspective themes in his music. He applauded Gunna for doing just that — stepping back into the spotlight after legal drama with raw honesty and vulnerability, which immediately connected with fans and led to a number-one record.
Source: YouTube
