A few hours before I made my way to the Moody Theater on Thursday of SXSW I was talking to fellow writer Chris Bosman about my relationship with Nas. Like a lot of white kids growing up in the docile suburbs across America, Illmatic was a very important listening experience - the template I kept close to my heart for a while. It’s one of the few records that feels native and holy from the first impression more ›

We’ve had our eye on the alliance between Nas and Damian Marley ever since the former appeared on the latter’s “Road To Zion” single in 2005. Last month, they released Distant Relatives, a splendid album that celebrates their heritage and brings to light each’s substantial lyrical and vocal prowess. Assisted by a whole host of guest contributors, the duo alternates between, and fuses the worlds of hip hop and reggae (and everything in between) in absorbing fashion throughout the impressive catalog of songs. “Tribal War” (with K'naan) and “Leaders” (featuring Damian’s brother Stephen) are just two of the many highlights that ensure this record was well worth the collective effort put forth by all parties involved. more ›

Back in October of last year, Nas announced at a concert in New York that the titled of his upcoming album (originally slated for release in February '08) was "Nigger." Since that time, the release date has been pushed back, the title has changed, and various members of the black community as well as his label have had plenty to say. more ›