S. Samuel
Pennsylvania rapper Asher Roth recently updated fans on his forthcoming sophomore album and revealed his decision to nix its Is This Too Orange? title in light of singer Frank Ocean's new Channel Orange.
He also said industry politics has kept the LP from already hitting store shelves.
“We have a new album coming out, obviously with the music business and the industry being in the way that it is and the shape that it is, we’re just kind of dealing with those strings. Trying to navigate those seas and point the ship in the right direction while also not really compromising character or compromising the art. … It’s tough. Obviously the initial title of the album was Is This Too Orange? and out of respect for Frank and the project he put together, he kind of beat me to the punch. Whatever, whatever. I just want to make sure we have an original idea. I don’t want any connotation or any comparisons or anything like that just simply off of a name. So we might have to start fresh from a name sake, maybe have the fans name it and we’ll see what’s up.” (By Any Means)
In January, Ash talked about not staying in the mainstream spotlight as of late.
“We really had some issues and I really don’t want to use the word ‘politically,’ because that’s pushing the blame elsewhere. I definitely had some blame on myself with just being a jerk, and not cooperating, so to speak. We had some real issues with the powers that be,” Ash told radio host Bootleg Kev. “For about two years, we were pretty quiet on the mainstream and this is the information era. So, two years is a really long time, man. You should be gone, technicaly wiped away.” (Bootleg Kev)
Last November, Roth dished out the details behind his Def Jam/SRC Records deal.
“We understand that Def Jam is ready to compete in a changing music business and a music business that’s changed drastically even since the last time I was out doing commercial music,” he said. “Def Jam has the mindset and resources to compete in this arena, and I know [SRC Records CEO] Steve Rifkind knows that. … From a historical standpoint, when they asked me if I wanted to be with Def Jam for these upcoming projects, it’s kind of a no-brainer. Major labels kind of get a bad rap — I think that if you can supply them with this new age school of content, content, content, and they’re willing to give you the freedom to do that using a major label strength and resources is a win-win.” (XXL Mag)
His previously titled Is This Too Orange? LP was slated to drop in March.
Philadelphia-based rapper Asher Roth has announced that his sophomore album will drop on the legendary Def Jam Recordings in March of 2012. The follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2008 debut album Asleep In The Bread Aisle, Roth’s first Def Jam offering promises to be a significant step for the young star. “Def Jam is a great place to call home,” said Roth. “I’m excited to get back to the basics with good, honest music.” (Market Watch)
Check out Asher Roth’s interview below:
