By hip-hop standards, Nottz is something of a recluse, preferring to stay out of the limelight and let his beats do the talking. The Norfolk, Virginia native got his start in the late ’90s rap underground with beats for the Lyricist Lounge compilation and Busta Rhyme’s Extinction Level Event album. From there he quietly continued his ascension into the ranks of hip-hop’s most versatile producers with beats for Snoop Dogg, Kanye West and the late J Dilla’s shelved MCA album.

In this lecture at the 2007 Red Bull Music Academy, the taciturn producer talked about his path through music, the Virginia scene and how gold can be made from any sample nugget when you have the right dedication and mindset.