We take a look at what the rest of the year has in store for hip-hop fans.
2017 was a big year for hip-hop, with album releases from old legends like JAY Z and new legends like Kendrick Lamar, not to mention the genre completely dominating this year’s Grammy Awards nominations. As we’ve discussed, hip-hop and R&B are taking over the mainstream, so it’s no surprise that 2018 is already shaping up to be another exciting year for rap fans worldwide. Here’s what we have to look forward to.
Eric B and Rakim’s reunion tour
Hip-hop pioneers Eric B and Rakim had not performed together for decades before their special reunion concert last year, timed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their classic album Paid in Full. Clearly, that show rekindled the spark, with the DJ/rapper combo announcing a full list of tour dates for 2018.
Wu-Tang’s Once Upon a Time in Shaolin’s possible release
The Wu-Tang Clan’s mysterious one-of-a-kind album has been making headlines ever since it was purchased for $2 million by notorious fraudster Martin Shkreli. With Shkreli now in jail, the US federal court has seized the only copy of the album, leaving its future up in the air. Will 2018 be the year non-millionaire, non-criminal listeners can finally hear Raekwon, Ghostface Killah and co.’s secret masterpiece?
Ghostface Killah’s new EP and merch
Even if we don’t hear Once Upon a Time in Shaolin this year, we’ll definitely get new solo material from at least one Wu-Tang member. Tony Starks aka Ghostface Killah has announced a brand new EP coming very soon, along with a selection of new merchandise and free giveaways for the supreme clientele who sign up to his new mailing list. Expect the very best.
To bring two of Wu-Tang’s most popular members to your venue, enquire today to book Ghostface Killah and Raekwon for a joint show.
Flockaveli 2
Waka Flocka has promised to return to his trap roots with Flockaveli 2, the direct sequel to his popular 2010 debut album. With a rumoured tracklist of at least 19 tracks, Flocka fans will not be disappointed.
Cardi B’s debut studio album
Cardi B ruled the radio with her 2017 debut major label single ‘Bodak Yellow’, and her featured appearance on Bruno Mars’ ‘Finesse (Remix)’ won her even more plaudits. Sources say she has no intention to rush release an album to capitalise on the hype. Instead she plans to take her time and put together something special. A tentative release date of April has been announced.
JAY-Z and Beyonce’s One the Run II Tour
Four years ago, music’s greatest power couple sent fans into a frenzy by announcing a joint tour. The original On the Run tour featured a setlist of each artist’s biggest hits at 19 dates across North America and two in Paris. Announced in a similar surprise move, the On the Run II Tour will this time commence in wales, with 14 more European shows following before the duo head back to America for the tour’s second half. Since JAY-Z hasn’t performed live in the UK for nearly four years, hip-hop fans in particular should rejoice.
Redman’s Muddy Waters Too album
Legendary rapper Redman has been teasing a follow-up to his magnum opus Muddy Waters LP for years, but a recent Twitter post suggests it is coming this year. With at least some beats provided by 9th Wonder, this sequel is sure to live up to the original.
Nicki Minaj’s follow-up to The Pinkprint
It’s hard to believe that three years have passed since Nicki Minaj released her last studio album. She’s remained relevant throughout the entire period with a series of solo singles and some of the best guest feature verses across several genres. Now, all signs point to the long wait being over, with a rumoured 2018 release for the singer/rapper’s third studio album.
To bring some hip-hop talent to your venue this year, check out the artists on our music roster here.