Lamar Odom Shares Secret Health Scares And Advice Jay-Z Gave Him

Former NBA star Lamar Odom has been giving some interesting interviews lately while promoting his new memoir, "Darkness to Light." The latest of these conversations took place with Talib Kweli for the Uproxx series "People's Party."

Odom, 39, opened up to the host about the health issues he has had to face in his life, divulging that he has suffered 12 strokes and 6 heart attacks over the years. Many fans knew of his publicized health problems, but few were aware of the extent of them.

While discussing his health, the television personality also opened up about his struggle with drug addiction and how it may have affected his career.

"If I wasn't addicted, would I play at a higher level? Of course, I would have. It would have meant more time with me perfecting my craft," he stated. "But then I wouldn't be Lamar Odom. We wouldn't be here talking about this book and me helping people."

The conversation also weaved to the topic of Jay-Z, with Odom revealing that at one point, the "99 Problems" rapper attempted to talk him out of starting his own record label, as reported by Complex. Instead, the rapper suggested that Odom should invest in real estate or other businesses, like fellow NBA star Magic Johnson.

However, Odom said he laughed off his advice. "I think I took it the wrong way," he confessed.

He then went on to say that he wishes he had listened. "I didn't listen to big homie, but I wish I would," Odom said, adding, "Sometimes I think, 'What if I'd have listened to Hov's advice?'"

The interview in its entirety can be viewed here.