Gang Starr is forever.
It’s been over 16 years ago since DJ Premier and MC Guru released an album, but the legendary duo is back.
With the help of Nas, Gang Starr is gearing up to release a new album. But first, they deliver the lead single off the project, “Family and Loyalty.” The J. Cole-assisted track features unreleased verses from the late Guru, who passed away in 2010, over Premier’s classic production. “Diamonds are forever like family and royalty / Or real rap songs like ‘C.R.E.A.M.’ or ‘My Melody,'” raps Guru, while Cole pays homage to the hip-hop OG.
“J. Cole, who would’ve thought you woulda been rhyming with ghosts / Guru flows forever like a diamond and most / Could never afford the precious jewels,” raps the Dreamville boss.
Gang Starr released its last album The Ownerz in 2003. Earlier this week, DJ Premier hinted that the wait for new music could soon be over. He posted an Instagram clip featuring a voicemail from Nas, who asks, “Is it true there’s a new Gang Starr album? That’s crazy, man. Let me know, man.”
Meanwhile, J. Cole continues his collaboration spree. In addition to dropping the video for “Under the Sun,” he recently collaborated with YBN Cordae, Ty Dolla $ign, and Young Thug.