in july 2013, sean revealed ellie goulding would be featured on the album. in the following month, during a listening session, he revealed additional guest appearances on the album from nicki minaj, jeezy and doughboyz cashout. in august 2013, big sean told "rolling stone" the album was primarily produced by no i.d. and sean's childhood friend key wane, with kanye west having a much smaller presence on the album then sean's debut album. the final track listing contained guest appearances from ellie goulding, lil wayne, jhené aiko, nas, kid cudi, nicki minaj, juicy j, jeezy, payroll of doughboyz cashout, james fauntleroy, miguel, 2 chainz, meek mill, earlly mac, pharrell williams and common.