Hip-Hop Starts Off The New Year Strong

As far as album releases go, the first quarter of the year is traditionally set aside to launch new artists while saving the veterans for the summer or the holiday season.

However, the period from January to March this year will not only bring out a few newbies, but also welcome back some favorites who have been missing in action.


“Don’t be surprised if she ask ‘Where the cash at?’…”

The famous hook from “Where The Cash At?” definitely made waves in 2006 and also serves as the first single from newcomer Currency, from his debut album “Music to Fly To.”

Although this will be his first solo studio project, the term “newcomer” is a misnomer. Currency was featured as one of the 504 Boyz from back in the day and did a solo mixtape, “Sports Center.” Regardless of all that, Currency is probably best known for the work he’s done since signing with Lil’ Wayne’s Young Money Entertainment. Look for his debut release this February.


2007: The Year of G-Unit?

Well, at least that’s what 50 says. Being the leader of G-Unit, it is only right that 50 Cent leads off with “Before I Self Destruct.” In an interview on BET’s 106 & Park, 50 stated that his upcoming album was written in the mindset that he was in before the release of the 7 times platinum “Get Rich Or Die Tryin.’” The project will feature the regulars like Eminem and G-Unit, as well as Ludacris, Jay-Z and Bun B, according to an interview on Shade45. The album is expected to drop March 20, 2007.


“Fans want a feelin’ of A Tribe Called Quest…”

So, instead of that guy called West, how about a former member? Consequence, who appeared as member of the Tribe on “Beats, Rhymes and Life” has made his return.
Now on Kanye West’s label, Quence will go solo with his G.O.O.D. Music debut “Don’t Quit Your Day Job!”

Consequence will be joined on the album by the rest of the G.O.O.D. family, Keyshia Cole and hip-hop violinist Miri Bin Ari. After years of grinding since he left the Tribe, Consequence hopes to re-establish himself this February.

While we’re talking about the Grammy Family…

Common is back and “continuing on the quest to make forever music” with his forthcoming release, “Finding Forever.”

Kanye West returns as executive producer on Common’s seventh studio album. He’s come a long way from Common Sense’s “Can I Borrow a Dollar?” and this can really cement his position as a hip-hop living legend.

The album is scheduled to hit the racks sometime this March. There are also rumors of an appearance by D’Angelo.


Bone is Back! Midwest stand up!

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony has also made a return after a hiatus from the game and they’re coming back strong with the aptly named “Strength and Loyalty.” The group will pair their signature harmonies with production from the likes of Akon, Swizz Beatz, Kanye West, Dr. Dre and more.

Unfortunately, Bizzy Bone will be missing from this offering and although Flesh-N-Bone will be on the album he won’t be playing a major role due to his recent incarceration. Nevertheless, March 27 should bring about a memorable project.

Sorry Nas, I’m gonna have to say hip-hop is definitely alive.