Many will recall Rawkus Records and its legacy where many respected and critically acclaimed emcees made underground classics. Afterall, the record label, which later folded, gave birth to many of today’s most notable rappers including Eminem, Mos Def and Talib Kweli, to name a few.
Fans have been asking for a return since the doors closed and the unthinkable has happened. Rawkus is back and the doors have been reopened by none other than the first signee: Naledge. The emcee recently spoke exclusively with us and opened up about the new album, the new deal and the return of a legendary label.
”I feel like I’m in the ideal creative situation for a hip hop artist. With this deal, I’m joining with a brand that has a reputation for being synonymous with innovation in hip hop. This is great because all eyes are on me and my project will be able [to] capture the ears of the masses without having to compromise to the constraints of a major label. I’m able to control my own destiny. In another sense it’s a dream come true because I was a huge fan of the old Rawkus catalog. It’s like an athlete being drafted for the team he rooted for as a child,” he said of his current status with the label.
So, will we see any ex Rawkus members join the emcee? There may be a possibility.
”At this time, there are no definite guest appearances other than Jay Electronica. I have spoken to Talib about doing a song together and I think that’s a very likely collaboration. We are very similar emcees and it would make sense for us to work together. Me and Rhymefest are also looking to get in the studio together,” he added.
On the production tip, expect bangers from several producers who have joined Naledge behind the boards.
”The album is executive produced by Just Blaze and John Monopoly. I also have my partner Double O who will be a main contributor. I also have tracks from No ID, Memo from Molemen, SC, Floyd the Locsmif and this new cat out of Chicago named Xcel. He produced the new Shawna recrord (“Gettin Some”).”
Naledge has great expectations for the upcoming album, which is expected to drop September 19.
”What you can expect is a classic Hip-Hop album. My album is no frills, just skills. Some might call it a throwback. I am going to take the listener on a emotional journey through my mind. I have songs that will make you laugh, some that will make you cry, songs to make you dance, songs to inspire and songs that are definitely from my soul. I think I am sitting on the sleeper album of the year,” he claimed.
