Nas and DJ Premier unveil collaborative album, debuting lead single ‘define my name’ on Illmatic’s 30th anniversary

In a monumental announcement, hip-hop icons Nas and DJ Premier have revealed their long-awaited collaborative album. The project, which remains untitled for now, marks a historic reunion between two legends who first joined forces three decades ago on Nas’s groundbreaking debut album, Illmatic. Released in 1994, Illmatic is often hailed as one of the greatest rap albums of all time. Nasir Jones, then a 20-year-old rookie, delivered a lyrical masterpiece that resonated with fans and critics alike. DJ Premier, renowned for his impeccable production skills, contributed to the album by producing three unforgettable tracks: “N.Y. State of Mind, Represent, and Memory Lane (Sittin’ In Da Park).” The album’s lead single, “Define My Name,” dropped today to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Illmatic. Nas’s introspective lyrics reflect on his journey from a young artist to a seasoned veteran: “At twenty, I said I’d better quit by thirty / Then by thirty, I thought by forty rapping is corny / How wrong was I? / Never would have thought at fifty, new songs by Nas would be hard and live.” As Nas approaches his 51st birthday, he and DJ Premier share a renewed passion for their craft. The outro of “Define My...