In a display of artistic ingenuity, Nas has unveiled a fresh visual installment stemming from the collaborative creation of himself and Hit-Boy – the illustrious “Magic 2” album. The ethereal veil of “Black Magic” materialized on the auspicious day of Monday, August 21, a manifestation helmed by the directorial mastery of Razak Ologunebi.
Within the beguiling frames, Nas nimbly maneuvers through a realm awash with malevolent apparitions. This sinister congregation of specters harbors a nefarious intent, ceaselessly attempting to ensnare the rapper into the snares of a femme fatale of diabolical nature.
Embarking upon a lyrical odyssey, Nas articulates, “Lying beside me, her presence lacks the carnal, hinting at trepidation, perhaps induced by an impending curse. The prowess of black magic, relentless and undefeated, casts its ominous shadow, leaving me defenseless in its wake.” His cadence weaves through the tapestry of the arcane, a testament to his prowess.
The musical maestro Hit-Boy, renowned recipient of the coveted HipHopDX Producer of the Year Award for 2022, graces the enigmatic panorama as well. He artfully navigates the mise-en-scène, vigilantly evading the clutches of a woman possessed. The residues of her voodoo enchantment stand to infect all who draw near, a spell he fervently resists.
The summer’s atmosphere pulsates with celebration for the seasoned 49-year-old. His partnership with Hit-Boy yielding its fifth opus – the mystical “Magic 2.” July’s arrival witnessed the culmination of their collaborative synergy. This triumphant journey commenced with the inception of their prior offering, “King’s Disease,” an August 2020 revelation that garnered Nas his inaugural Grammy, a triumph in the Best Rap Album category.
A year’s passing ushered in the second installment, “King’s Disease II,” gracing August’s embrace in 2021. Swiftly, the resonating echoes of “Magic” followed, arriving in December 2021. The duo’s momentum persisted, as “King’s Disease III” emerged in November 2022, a testament to their enduring artistry.
In the tapestry of August’s annals, Nas basked in the radiance of recognition. Standing alongside the luminary Lil Wayne, they attained the distinction of becoming the inaugural rap inductees into the illustrious Billboard Hip Hop Hall of Fame. Nas shared his sentiments, articulating, “My foray into this realm was not marked by the pursuit of accolades. But rather driven by a profound love for the craft. Five decades of Hip Hop’s evolution, paying homage to those pioneers who kindled my creative flames… from DJ Mr. Magic’s nascent rap radio endeavors, to the mixtape alchemy spun by Marley Marl and Red Alert in the underground era.”
Nas’ narrative continued, punctuated by reflections of his journey through the tapestry of time. “I bear witness to the transformation spanning these years, humbled by the fact that I stand here as a fan. Celebrating the golden jubilee of a genre that has deeply touched my soul. Gratitude resonates within me for the recognition received at the age of 49. A far cry from the tender age of 29.”
With candor, Nas disclosed, “I confess, I once eschewed award ceremonies, perceiving them as vehicles of malevolence. Yet, reality has unfolded in a different light. The essence of these events rests in our own perception and interpretation.”
In this symphony of words and experiences. Nas’ artistry blossoms, capturing the essence of his journey through the enigmatic labyrinth of life and music.
