This past week was defined by things fans wanted: reunions, inspiration, tributes and collaborations. While it did not always end well – or legally, this week was for the fans in many ways. Some names from the early 1990s popped up in the headlines, as some newer artists worked (and promised to work) with some surprising personnel. Music spoke for itself though, in a week with plenty new high-profile tracks. All in all, what was not to love?

MC Breed’s Estate Ain’t Feelin’ Jon Connor’s “Ain’t No Future In Yo’ Frontin'”

It’s often that newer generation artists pay tribute to late stars of yesterday, isn’t that what Rick Ross and Meek Mill‘s “Tupac Back” was trying to do? Flint, Michigan’s Jon Connor recently paid similar tribute to his native city’s MC Breed, who passed away in 2008. “Vinnie Chase” re-made Breed (and D.F.C.’s) 1991 hit “Ain’t No Future In Yo’ Frontin’,” and shot a video, below. However, Breed’s widow claims she is suing Connor for selling the song, complete with the original music, on iTunes. Connor’s spokesman declined to comment this week. This issue got people talking, and raised an interesting question that may affect how rappers pay tribute to one another.

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Waka Flocka Flame Says He Will Work With J. Cole

DX premiered our recent feature with Brick Squad 1017 rapper Waka Flocka Flame. It’s only the second time we’ve spoken to Waka in the last year, but one of the break-out stars of 2010 revealed that he and another young sensation, J. Cole have not only had deep conversations, but “guaranteed” collaboration. If Talib Kweli works with Gucci Mane, should be surprised? 

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Yelawolf Unveils First Radioactive Single

Although Drake’s Take Care single dominated the Internet airwaves most of the week, fans of DXnext alum Yelawolf got their first condoned glimpse of Radioactive. “Catfish Billy” got down with Lil Jon for “Hard White (Up In The Club)” a curious track-name, but a slamming track. Earlier, a Radioactive leak caused Yela to alter his Shady Records studio album debut, but this gem appears to be true to the Trunk Muzik formula. With Jon’s work on Radioactive and Big Boi‘s Sir Lucious Leftfoot: Son of Chico Dusty, his rise-and-fall, may rise again.

Death Row Records All-Stars Reunite As The N’Matez

Since Marion “Suge” Knight lost ownership of the label that he started with Dr. Dre five years ago, all of the stars from the early 1990s reign of the imprint began picking up the pieces. Daz Dillinger and Kurupt (Tha Dogg Pound), RBX and the Lady of Rage all announced a new super-group, The N’Matez. The foursome released a Snoop Dogg-endorsed video as well, signalling that a full length is in the works on Daz’ DPG Records imprint. Fans of albums like The Chronic, Doggystyle and Dogg Food know what this means, and hopefully the industry pays homage to a talented pack of emcees still doing it for the love.

Other items of note:

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– Royce Da 5’9 Explains Success Is Certain Compared To Death Is Certain

– Wale Gives HipHopDX One Of The Most Inspiring Interviews We’ve Read In Ages

– Big Sean Is Under Question Over Sexual Assault Charges

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– Cormega Unveils Plans To Release Album With Band, Greatest Hits Collection, And New Studio LP

– Phonte & 9th Wonder Collaboration To Executive Produce Median’s Sophomore Album