Over the weekend, the hip-hop community was abuzz with several significant events. Hot 97’s annual Summer Jam faced a series of controversies, ranging from lineup changes to production issues. On the other hand, The Root Picnic appeared to have unfolded without significant hitches, offering a diverse and engaging musical experience. As the festival headliner on Saturday night, Nas delivered a captivating and energetic set, delighting the crowd with his lyrical prowess and stage presence. True to form, Nas brought out a collection of special guests to join him on stage, including one who held particular significance for the acclaimed “NY State Of Mind” rapper.
Nas was graced by the presence of Ghostface Killah, a member of the acclaimed Wu-Tang Clan and a fellow New York legend, on stage. The duo delivered a captivating performance of “Verbal Intercourse,” and Ghostface impressed the audience with renditions of “Cherchez La Ghost,” “Ice Cream,” and “C.R.E.A.M.” During the performance, Nas openly expressed his admiration for Ghostface by declaring him as his favourite rapper, much to the delight of the crowd. The atmosphere became even more electrifying as Beanie Sigel was also brought on stage as a guest, and they all later shared a memorable moment by posing for photographs together.
Last year, Nas wrapped up an impressively prolific and acclaimed four-year career period. He and Hit-Boy teamed up for six total albums split across two trilogies. The King’s Disease trilogy concluded in 2022, followed by the release of Magic 2 and 3 last year. He’s continued to promote the records, releasing multiple videos for deep cuts from both albums since they dropped. Some tapped Nas as a potential recipient of the key to New York City if it was formally rescinded from Diddy. The rap mogul received the key last year but has been mired in controversy ever since. Calls for his key to be revoked increased after a video leaked of him allegedly assaulting Cassie in a hotel the pair were staying at together.
