VIBE is bringing us the "New Classics" for their April/May 2013 issue. Singer Miguel and rapper Kendrick Lamar are the fresh faces spread out over three covers. Check out their spreads, plus why Kendrick Lamar is set on working with Nas and why Miguel is OK with Frank Ocean's "announcement" overshadowing the music...
He's one of our fave rappers right now for a reason. A hot flow, something of substance to say and always with an ill beat, Kendrick Lamar has the hip hop light shining brightly on Cali again (not that it ever totally left).
So it's only right the "Swimming Pools (Drank)" rapper was chosen as 1/2 of the cover of the new issue. EIC Jermaine Hall said about the choice, "Watching the rise of two future genius artists is rare. With Kendrick’s classic debut and Miguel’s new-age soul dominance we wanted to celebrate these LA products in the moment. They are appropriate look-forwards to an issue crowning the culture’s best.”
And we must agree. More pics from Kendrick's spread:
On working with Nas (who people often compare him to) on KL's next album:
KL: “I never got a chance to reach out to him (Nas). I was so wrapped up in getting the music done and samples cleared and mastered. I didn't wanna rush the process; I actually wanted to sit in the studio and vibe with him. [It was] the only thing that I had a vision for that I sought out to accomplish, but in due time…”
On which artist puts them on their toes and to go harder:
KL: “My partner J. Cole is always keeping it to the point where you have to show and prove. My partner Drake kills it.”
M: “What's fucked up about R&B is that that camaraderie doesn't exist. I don't really know why.”
Interesting (and seemingly true) words Miguel. The "Quickie" singer's solo cover & spread is below:
On the biggest risk they’ve taken artistically:
M: “Overall it doesn’t sound like any other R&B album that’s been put out in the past decade…I remember having a conversation with Mark, my A&R like, “Man, I don’t know if they’re going to get this shit.””
KL: “The idea of a concept record has been lost for a long time – will that translate to 16-year-old kids in high school rather than the super energetic joint on the radio? I definitely had that in the back of my mind when I was creating this album.”
On Frank Ocean’s announcement:
M: “In all reality, Frank Ocean took a big chance the way that artists are supposed to. Sonically and how he writes and what he’s writing about and how he chooses to express himself vocally, all his choices are very unique and I appreciate that about him. Not only did his announcement overshadow my music, but it overshadowed his as well.
The issue hits stands April 26th everywhere. Check out the full cover story and some BTS footage from the shoot over at VIBE.
