Legendary artists Nas and DJ Premier have finally unveiled their long-anticipated joint album. The first single, Define My Name, was released on the 30th anniversary of Nas’ iconic debut album, Illmatic.
Define My Name is a testament to the duo’s enduring chemistry. It features DJ Premier’s distinct boom-bap production and vocal scratches. The track’s title is a nod to a line from one of their fan-favorite collaborations, 1999’s Nas Is Like. The album is set to be released later this year via Mass Appeal Records.
Fans and critics have discussed the collaborative project for years. Nas first hinted at it in a 2006 interview with Scratch magazine, where he appeared on the cover alongside DJ Premier.
Their potent partnership dates back three decades, with DJ Premier, a key figure in the Gang Starr duo, famously contributing three tracks to Illmatic: “N.Y. State of Mind,” “Represent,” and “Memory Lane (Sittin’ In Da Park).”
Their partnership continued with at least one collaboration on Nas’s first five albums. Over the years, they have created several memorable tracks, including I Gave You Power and Nas Is Like.
Their chemistry and shared respect for the culture have made them one of the all-time great rapper/producer pairings
The release of “Define My Name” marks a significant milestone in the pair’s storied collaboration. It reminds us of their shared history and profound influence on the Hip-Hop genre.
