Hip hop heavyweight Nas has spoken out the meaning behind his upcoming album title, 'Hip Hop Is Dead'.
"What I mean by Hip Hop Is Dead is we're at a vulnerable state," the rap star says. "If we don't change, we gonna disappear like Rome. Let's break it down to a smaller situation. Hip hop is Rome for the 'hood. I think hip hop could help rebuild America...We are our own politicians, our own government, we have something to say."
He adds: "When I say Hip Hop Is Dead, basically America is dead. There is no political voice. Music is dead. Our way of thinking is dead, our commerce is dead. Everything in this society has been done. That's where we are as a country."
Hip Hop Is Dead is also the title of the first single to be taken from the album. It was produced by the Black Eyed Peas’ Will.i.am.
The album, which arrives in stores on December 19, features collaborations with top artists including Kanye West, Damien Marley, The Game and Snoop Dogg.
