S. Samuel
West Coast rapper Kendrick Lamar recently discussed his g.o.o.d. kid, m.A.A.d city album and revealed what New York hip-hop legend he wanted for the project.
Despite landing guest features from Drake and Dr. Dre, Lamar said he wished Nas would have had an opportunity to take part in the project.
“The idea was to have Nas on ‘Sing About Me,'” Lamar tells VIBE exclusively. The 12-minute track – titled “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst” – that depicts the Compton native juggling various personalities is one of the LP’s highest notes. In trying to finalize the track list, K-Dot says he never got to issue the request for the Queens MC. “I never really got a chance to reach out to him,” explains Lamar. “I was so wrapped up in getting the music done, samples cleared and mastered – there was so much going on.” (VIBE)
Kendrick also said he would have allowed Nasty Nas complete freedom to pen whatever he liked.
The 25-year-old spitter also wanted the collaboration to be as organic as possible, instead of a rushed slipshod of bars. “I didn’t really wanna rush the process. I actually wanted to sit in the studio and vibe with him. [It was] the only thing that I had a vision for but in due time, God willing, for sure. Lamar adds that he would’ve given Nas full creative control over his contribution. “I just wanted to play him the record. Whatever inspiration he drew from it, I’d just have him there and he would go,” says Lamar. “He’s a genius. The record is self-explanatory but he may hear something a little different that might take it to the next level.” (VIBE)
Back in January, the 25-year-old rapper reacted to learning of Nas’ co-sign of good kid, m.A.A.d city.
“That’s crazy, I didn’t hear that,” he said. “That’s amazing, just off the fact that it’s Nas. You can hear the influence [of him] on my storytelling. For somebody who’s been a lead player in this game for so many years, a veteran as far as longevity and skill, that’s an accomplishment just on words alone.” (FUSE)
Earlier the same month, Nasir Jones spoke on the impact Lamar’s LP had on him.
“No disrespect to nobody else in rap music, but Kendrick Lamar. I’m really happy about his record. I needed that. His record reaches you. It gives you hope. …Also, Meek Mill. His energy is amazing. … [New music?] Yes. It has started. I must tell you. I can’t stop now. I’m in a great zone.” (SF Gate)
