Nas and DJ Premier Reunite for New Album 'Light-Years' Dropping This December

Nas and DJ Premier roll back the years with their collaborative album 'Light-Years,' due December 12, rekindling their legendary hip-hop chemistry.

There’s something undeniably electric about the thought of Nas and DJ Premier cooking up together again. For fans like me, who grew up vibing to the iconic sounds of their 1994 masterpiece Illmatic, this reunion feels like a full-circle moment. After all, it’s been more than three decades since these two legends crafted one of hip-hop’s most revered albums. Now, they’re back with a fresh project titled Light-Years, set to drop on December 12 via Nas’ Mass Appeal label. And yes, the anticipation is real.

Nas performing in Glasgow, June 2023 (Photo: Roberto Ricciuti / Redferns)

A Legendary Collaboration Reignited

As many of us hoped and speculated earlier this year, Nas and DJ Premier have officially teamed up again. The album Light-Years marks the next chapter in a groundbreaking collaboration that first shook the world with Illmatic. If you remember, that album wasn’t just a record; it was a movement—Nas’ storytelling paired with Premier’s signature boom-bap beats created a timeless soundscape.

While detailed information about Light-Years remains under wraps, we know it will feature 15 tracks, promising a deep dive into the roots of authentic hip-hop. The duo has already teased us with “Define My Name,” a track released last year that gave a glimpse into the vibe of this upcoming album.

Part of the 'Legend Has It...' Series

Light-Years is more than just a reunion album; it’s part of a larger celebration called the Legend Has It… series. This initiative shines a spotlight on some of hip-hop’s most influential icons, providing a platform for artists who’ve shaped the genre into the cultural powerhouse it is today.

This year alone, the series has rolled out fresh projects from legendary names like Slick Rick, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Mobb Deep, Big L, and De La Soul. It’s almost like a hip-hop hall of fame, with each release reminding us why these artists still matter—and how their stories continue to inspire new generations.

Pre-Order and Exclusive Formats

For collectors and superfans, Light-Years can be pre-ordered now from Mass Appeal’s web store. It’s available in multiple formats, including some pretty cool nostalgic options like cassette tapes and autographed metallic label vinyl. There’s something special about holding a physical piece of hip-hop history, especially when it’s signed by Nas himself.

Nas shared his excitement with a major music outlet recently, saying, “I can’t wait for people to finally hear it. I don’t know about anybody else, but for me and him, it was personally a long time coming for us to do it.” And honestly, hearing that makes the wait feel even more worthwhile.

Following Nas’ Prolific 2023 Releases

The new album follows Nas’ impressive twin releases earlier this year—Magic 2 and Magic 3—his 16th and 17th studio albums, respectively. He’s stayed incredibly busy, also featuring on other Mass Appeal hip-hop albums and lending his talents to the title track of Clipse’s Grammy-nominated comeback, LET GOD SORT ‘EM OUT. Clearly, Nas isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Celebrating Hip-Hop’s Trailblazers

Mass Appeal sums up the Legend Has It… series perfectly: it’s designed to honor the trailblazers who’ve been instrumental in building and shaping hip-hop culture. From the streets of New York to stages worldwide, these artists have left an indelible mark on music history.

For those interested in exploring more legendary artists across genres, there’s an ongoing list of the greatest rock stars of all time that offers a fascinating look at music’s most enduring icons.

Nas and DJ Premier’s Light-Years isn’t just another album—it’s a bridge between the golden era of hip-hop and today’s vibrant scene. It’s a testament to enduring artistry and the power of collaboration. Whether you grew up spinning Illmatic or are just discovering these icons now, Light-Years promises to be a sonic journey worth taking.

FAQ

• When is Nas and DJ Premier's album 'Light-Years' releasing?
  The album is officially set to release on December 12.
• Where can I pre-order 'Light-Years'?
  You can pre-order the album through Mass Appeal’s official web store, available in formats like cassette and autographed vinyl.
• Is 'Light-Years' part of a larger series?
  Yes, it’s part of the Legend Has It… series, which celebrates legendary hip-hop artists.
• Have Nas and DJ Premier released music together recently before this album?
  They teased the album last year with the release of the song “Define My Name.”
• What other albums did Nas release in 2023?
  Nas released Magic 2 and Magic 3 in 2023, his 16th and 17th studio albums.

Feeling inspired by this hip-hop reunion? Celebrate Nas and DJ Premier’s legacy by shopping your favorite album cover posters at our store here. It’s a great way to bring a piece of hip-hop history into your home.