 In 1998, Lil' Mo began her industry career as a songwriter, writing songs for 702, Blackstreet, Timbaland, and Total, among others.Based on her songwriting skills, she was signed by Elektra Records the same year and received exposure when she appeared on rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard's second studio album "Nigga Please" (1999) and the Missy Elliott single "Hot Boyz" (1999).Elektra consulted a variety of producers to work with her on her debut album, including Shep Crawford, Brycyn Evans, DJ Clue and Troy Johnson.