Really? Nas?? What happened, Nasir? How do you go from artistic videos like “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” and “One Mic” to this garbage?

Here’s a clip of your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper performing “Sly Fox” on Letterman last night. If you’re still sleeping on Nas’ untitled album, you’re truly missing out.

Young Jeezy - “My President is Black” (Feat. Nas)
Young Jeezy and Nas get together for a presidential moment on The Recession.

The Source magazine is trying to climb out of the enormous ditch that Dave Mays and Benzino dug years ago. Their 20th-anniversary issue signals a sense of renewal and focus. They even hired revered movie director Spike Lee to oversee the cover shoot for their September issue. The new issue, out next week, features 4 separate covers of hip-hop giants Ice Cube, LL Cool J, Nas, and Queen Latifah.

Part of the transformation takes place in the magazine’s content department. It appears that music coverage will no longer be a major focus, while more emphasis will be placed on social discourse. “We’re just going to expand on what The Source has always done well,” says Londell McMillan, one of the new owners. He added: “a core focus but not 80 percent of the book.”

Best of luck to the team as they try to rebuild The Source brand.

Nas showing off some Rock Band skills backstage at Colbert Report.

Related Post:
Nas Colbert Report Interview and Performance

Nas - “Like Me”

“Like Me” is one of two bonus tracks on the iTunes version of Untitled. Actually, this sounds more like a leftover than bonus anything.

On another note, I wonder how much success Apple’s had with their “iTunes Bonus” campaign, since everyone can easily find those same songs online and make them available to others at no cost.

Directed by: Rik Cordero

Nasir and Mr. Cordero went all the way in on this one. This also features Jay Smooth and his camcorder.

Part 2 | Part 3

Taj Mahal did a great job of directing the “Hero video.” He kept the concept simple yet imaginative.

Nas Related Posts:
Nas (Feat. Keri Hilson) - “Hero” Video
Nas - “Be a N*gger Too” Video
Nas: “I missed my mark with Hip-Hop Is Dead“