Artist(s) of the Day: Damian Marley & Nas

Things I have a soft spot musically for include unexpected collaborations, reggae and rappers that haven’t sold out. So when I heard that Nas and Damian Marley were teaming up for a record, I couldn’t help but investigate a little further. The release date hasn’t been announced, but the duo has started touring, starting with a recent gig at the Rothbury Festival. They’re also headlining the “Rock the Bells” festival series, along with Cypress Hill, the Roots, Common and other hip hop acts (http://guerillaunion.com/rockthebells). Their upcoming album, called Distant Relatives, is a nod to their shared African ancestry. For a preview, check out their previously recorded song, “Road to Zion,” for Damian Marley’s breakout album Welcome to Jamrock. As for the new album, Nas says on the video posted below, “It’s not reggae, it’s not rap, it’s some different shit.” Whatever it is, it will be worth a listen.

NAS & DAMIAN "JR GONG" MARLEY DISTANT RELATIVES preview from nabil elderkin on Vimeo.

-Julie McCollum

Listening to: “Welcome to Jamrock” by Damian Marley

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