The Most Powerful Trio in Rap

…It gets no better than this
Amateurs drink veteran piss
From a Dixie cup if you ever mix me up
Or confuse me with a Canibus or Dre with a Dupri
We’ll rub it in, every club you’re in
We’ll have you black-balled and make sure you never rap a-fuckin- gain
-Eminem “Say What You Say”

Back in January, I made a post about how 2008 is going to be one of the best years for commercial hip-hop.  No one saw it because back then I wasn’t blogging openly but with upcoming releases from Hip-Hop’s most powerful trio (Dr. Dre, Eminem, and 50 Cent) it looks like I might have been right. Take a look:

There’s new albums coming from the genre’s biggest stars. No seriously, THE biggest stars. The untouchables (Dre/Eminem/50). The Shady/Aftermath empire, more specifically, is dropping 3 MAJOR albums. And don’t forget about Nasty Nas and Lil Weezyana .

Who: Lil Wayne
What: Tha Carter 3
When: First quarter 2008
Why does it matter: One of the most anticipated albums in a while, Weezy is looking to deliver a classic. Will he?

Who: Dr. Dre
What: Detox
When: 2008
Why does it matter: It’s the most anticipated album ever…seriously. I would put money on the fact that it will be a classic album. Put 2001 in your stereo and I bet you couldn’t tell it was a 90’s rap album. I’m expecting Detox to have a big impact on the hip hop landscape.

Who: Eminem
What: Living Proof: The King Mathers LP (rumored title)
When: 2008
Why does it matter: Em has been keeping quiet, but everything he’s dropped post-Encore has been pretty solid. His appearances on the Shady Records collabo album (The Re-Up) gave me hope that he’s still hungry. Plus, look what’s happened in his life since Encore. Obviously he’s got a lot to talk about. I’m expecting a mature Eminem, and hyped up Slim Shady on this album.

Who: Nas
What: Nigger
When: 2008
Why does it matter: Nas has been in great form, and I’m ready to hear some intelligent social commentary from one of the best lyricists alive. I think the title is really offensive, but in a good way. I’m excited for the media’s reception of this album, as well as hearing what he has to say.

Who: 50 Cent
What: Before I Self Destruct
When: 2008
Why does it matter: Supposedley 50’s last contractual obligation for Interscope Records, Before I Self Destruct is filled with songs with agressive content. You won’t find Justin Timberlake on this album, just that gritty 50 that won us over as fans back in the mixtape/Get Rich or Die Trying years (2001-2003). I hope!

Crafting a Classic

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