WDIV’s Devin Scillian and Kimberly Gill are not just your average news anchors. In addition to delivering the latest news stories to viewers in Detroit, these two media personalities recently made a surprising appearance in a different kind of role- as featured voices on rapper Big Sean’s newest album, “Detroit 2”.
The chart-topping rapper, who hails from Detroit himself, included a skit titled “Break News” on the album, which features the voices of Scillian and Gill. The skit sees Big Sean pretending to be a news anchor, reporting on the success of his album and thanking his hometown for their continuous support. But what makes the skit even more special is the fact that it features the voices of two real-life Detroit news anchors, lending an authentic touch to the already poignant track.
In an exclusive interview with Billboard, Scillian and Gill revealed how they became a part of the project and what it meant to them to be a part of such a significant moment for their city and for Big Sean.
“I got an email from Big Sean’s management asking if I would be interested in contributing to his new album,” Scillian said. “I was immediately intrigued and excited by the opportunity.” It wasn’t long before Gill received a similar request, which she enthusiastically accepted. “I was excited and shocked!” Gill said, “I am a huge fan of his music and it was an honor to be asked to be a part of it.”
For both Scillian and Gill, the decision to participate in the skit was an easy one. Not only did it give them the opportunity to support a fellow Detroiter, but it also allowed them to showcase the pride they have for their city. “Being a part of Big Sean’s album was a no-brainer for me. As a fellow Detroiter, I am always proud to support and promote artists from our city,” Scillian said. “The skit is a great representation of Detroit’s resilience and determination, and I was honored to lend my voice to it.”
Gill, who has also been a longtime supporter of Big Sean, echoed Scillian’s sentiment. “I’ve been a fan of Big Sean since he first started out in the industry. He always represents Detroit with such pride and I am grateful to be able to do the same through this skit,” she said. The news anchor also added that she believes the skit will inspire listeners to support and uplift their own hometowns just as Big Sean does for Detroit.
Big Sean, who has not shied away from incorporating his love and pride for Detroit into his music, was ecstatic to have Scillian and Gill on the album. “I’ve always been a fan of Devin and Kimberly’s work on WDIV and I knew I wanted to have them be a part of this album in some way,” the rapper said. “Having them on the skit was not only a great way to showcase their talents, but also to honor the city of Detroit and all that it has given me.”
The skit, which showcases the perfect balance between humor and pride, has received positive feedback from both fans and critics. Many have praised Big Sean for incorporating a unique and creative element into his album while showcasing the unity and support within the city of Detroit.
For Scillian and Gill, being a part of such a meaningful and impactful project has been a highlight of their careers. “It’s not every day that you get to be a part of something as special as this. It was a fun and memorable experience that I will always cherish,” Scillian said. Gill added, “To be a part of Big Sean’s album is definitely a highlight of my career. It’s a great moment for Detroit and I am grateful to have played a small role in it.”
As for Big Sean, he plans to continue shining the spotlight on his hometown and giving back to the community through his music. “Detroit has greatly influenced and shaped who I am as an artist. I am proud to represent the city and I will continue to do so in all my future projects,” the rapper said.
With the success of “Detroit 2” and the overwhelming positive response to the skit, it’s safe to say that Big Sean, alongside the voices of Devin Scillian and Kimberly Gill, have truly brought the city of Detroit back into the limelight. Their collaboration serves as a reminder to never forget where you came from and to always show love and support for your
