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Nas Performs In Brisbane

Source: Mark Grimwade / Getty

Boom Moment In Hip Hop (May 18, 2010)

Two worlds collided on this date back in 2010, as Nas and Damian Marley released their collaborative studio album, Distant Relatives. The album fused elements of hip-hop and reggae while tackling societal issues in the U.S. and Africa.

The album was recorded between 2008 and 2010, but Nas let everyone know about its existence in an interview with MTV:

“Right now, I’ll tell you first, I’m working on an album with Damian Marley. We tryin’ to build some schools in Africa with this one, and trying to build empowerment. We’re tryin’ to show love and stuff with this album. So, the record’s … all about really the ‘hood and Africa also as well.”

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMGd3mAfl-0%5D

Each song was inspired by their shared views on African ancestry, as well as their views on the entire human race. Production was credited mainly to Marley and his brother Stephen, who used live instrumentation during the recording process, while also incorporating African music samples. Featured guests included Stephen Marley, Joss Stone, Lil Wayne, and K’naan.

Proceeds from the project helped build a school in the Congo.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcCRDPU-ME0%5D

The album was received with mixed reviews, some glowing with support and admiration for what Nas and Damien were doing. But others found it to be “a tasteful affair full of uninteresting revelations and self-serious proclamations.”

The album debuted at number five on the U.S. Billboard 200 and sold 57,000 copies first week, as well as attaining some international chart success. Singles included “As We Enter”, “Strong Will Continue” and “My Generation”.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZwN3hWRglE%5D

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Today In Hip-Hop: ‘Distant Relatives’ Nas And Marley Release Collaboration Album  was originally published on boomphilly.com

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