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Life & Arts

Nas raps his way back on the scene

Hip-hop Update

Eli Jabbe 

Fans have been anticipating Nas' coming album. Specifically, many will wonder if Nas' music will change now that he's signed to Def Jam Records and will have his album produced by former rival Jay-Z. These two have always been mentioned when it comes to discussing hip-hop's elite artists: Their ranking is always an interesting topic. Indeed, no rapper has walked the fine line between commercial success and creativity more than Nas. He hasn't had the number of hits Jay-Z has had, instead often taking risks, such as with the many experimental tracks on his last album Street's Disciple, which didn‘t sell many copies. It will be interesting to see how much Nas' sound changes on his next album.

Sellout

The term "sellout" is given to someone who switches up his formula in order to make a quick buck. Two artists who epitomize sellouts are The Black Eyed Peas and 50 Cent. The Black Eyed Peas' current sound is very much disparate from their original sound. Their 1998 debut album Behind The Front epitomized the band's true sound. Ever since adding female member Fergie, the band's sound changed. Songs like 2004's "Let's Get It Started" was the beginning of the group's selling out. Its ultimate low point was "My Humps," which was a formulaic single. And of course, 50 Cent sold out a long time ago. He was actually decent several years ago, but his downfall began with "21 Questions" and later "Candyshop." 

His latest song "Best Friend" is a pathetic formulaic single. Recently, 50 made yet another stupid statement, saying that Southern artists make simplified hip-hop because they just want to have a good time. It only makes sense that 50 would say something stupid like this. True, much Southern music is designed for the clubs, but there are also introspective artists. And 50 Cent is the last person who should be talking, as his last album was full of the same kind of music he is criticizing.

Song of the week

"Politics As Usual" by Jay-Z is a 1996 song from Jigga's Reasonable Doubt that is very overlooked. Jay talks about struggles on the road to success. For those who think Jay doesn't make deep songs, I recommend you listen to this, as it's full of introspective lyrics.

Money Mike now with Dipset

Comedian Money Mike was signed by Cam'ron to Diplomat Records. As if Dipset wasn't hilarious enough, Mike's presence will make things even funnier. However, Mike does have some rap experience.
 

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