With his Damian Marley collaboration album, Distant Relatives, in the works, Nas has been making his rounds. He talked, or ignored talking about his expected collaboration with Jay-Z on The Blueprint 3.
Jay-Z’s current single, “Empire State of Mind” with Alicia Keys, was a tribute to Nas’ “NY State of Mind.” Originally, Nas was credited as the lone guest artist on the song, but his name was replaced by Alicia Keys. When he was asked about this, he said, “next question.”
However, Nas did praise The Blueprint 3. He said that the album, along with Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. II, were his favorite albums. Nas credited those albums to bringing seriousness back to hip hop.
Nas said those albums have provided him with inspiration while he is working on his Distant Relatives album with Damian Marley. He confirmed that the album would be released before the end of 2009. Nas also stated that the album would be released on Def Jam. However, the album is not a part of his contract with the label.
After his release of Distant Relatives, Nas will begin working on his tenth studio album, which will be released in 2010. He also talked briefly on Def Jam, Nas mentioned that he was a candidate to become the label’s next president and has considered it, but wants to continue to focus on his music.
Nas’ 2010 album will be released through Def Jam Recordings and is likely to be the final album in his contract with the label.
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