Nas stopped by the Bill Maher show over this weekend to promotes his new album “Illmatic XX“; a deluxe re-issue of his classic 1994 solo album release “Illmatic“.
The new album celebrates the 20th anniversary of one of the greatest albums of all time “Illmatic” and will feature unreleased music [demo’s, remixes and a special freestyle] along with a remaster of the original album.
Hip Hop fans will truly appreciate this new album an can expect to hear all of Nas classic records like ‘One Love’, ‘The World Is Yours’, ‘Represent’, ‘N.Y. State Of Mind’, ‘Life’s A B—!’
Take a read at some of the highlights of the interview below:
On The Message & Inspiration Behind His New Album ” Illmatic XX “:” It’s sort of philosophical. It’s sort of like Jazz as far as the music. It’s like a combination of street realities, rebelliousness, and melodies. “
On Why He Feels His Album Changed Hip Hop:
” I hear that it was a real Game Changer! I was the new guy and I had some of the best producers in the rap work on it so I was lucky. I appreciate my time in this business. “
On Being 4o and Reflecting Back To Young Life:
” Yeah, a little bit. But for the most part I was really LUCKY. Alot of my friends had albums that came out around the same time and for some reason there was a difference [referring to his album and career] . I’m really proud of this The content on there is still RELEVANT today. “
On Being Rated One Of The Top Five Rap MC’s Of All Time:
” It’s crazy, kids are always going have their number ones [ie: music idol], I’m 40, so kids have their new guys now, so for me to be a No.5 it’s a humbling thing for me. I’m really excited to keep my career going NOW because if I could stay a No. 5 right here in anybody’s list in the mainstream [and I’m not mainstream or but if that audience can see me at No. 5, then I’m good. “
On PopStars That He Admires:
” There some pop stars I like. Adell. I’m old-school so I like Sade, but I wouldn’t call her a pop star. “
About His Song “Black Republicans” Feat. Jay-Z:
” It’s like we get the American plan, we get what it is, and we understand what’s going on. We can get down with that or with any program that’s going as long as it’s fair and it’s right. “
“Illmatic XX” releases on April 15th. Be sure to pick up your copy.