Under tha Influence was released on June 4, 2002 through Ark 21, making this Quik’s first independent release following his departure from Arista Records. The album peaked at #27 on the Billboard 200 and #7 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Under tha Influence was supported by the singles “Trouble” with AMG and “Put It On Me,” the collaboration with fellow Compton rapper/producer Dr. Dre that was previously released on the Training Day soundtrack in 2001. The guest list featured familiar names from Quik’s previous albums such as Hi-C, Suga Free, KK from 2nd II None, and James DeBarge, but he also collaborated with East Coast MC’s Talib Kweli, Shyheim, and Pharoahe Monch, as well as featuring R&B collabs with Truth Hurts and Wanya Morris from Boyz II Men.