“Just a Moment” isn’t just a popular single, it’s a memorable old-school hip-hop ballad.

Actually, it’s the best track on Street Disciples and when it debuted as the LPs leading single in 2005, mainstream loved it. The performance led by Quan, Nas‘ new protégé at the time, got everyone’s attention.

Fans and critics alike were talking about the new Ill Will Records signee. The feature earned him respect in the hip-hop community. However, like many promising artists Quan’s record deal with the label eventually folded.

In a jaded industry, this is quite common. Some artists just give up while others persevere. Quan falls into the latter category.

13 years, two shelved albums, one released LP, various side projects, and a television feature later—Quan is still at it.

Currently signed to  Fort Knocks Records, Quan is putting the finishing touches on Point Of No Return, his sophomore LP.

Now,  the singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and rapper is back with a new single called “Tainted.”

See what the Newport, Connecticut-based musician had to say about the single—originally featured on Hip-Hop DX below.

When you grow up around sickness, it’s hard to recognize just how sick you yourself might be. We’re all tainted in one way or another. I just thank God i don’t look like all I’ve been through and done, because if I did, I’m not sure I’d like what I saw in the mirror looking back at me.

Quan is also working on his first memoir titled, The Thirst.

In the memoir, Quan talks about his current relationship with Nas and 50 Cent, the death of his son, and escaping a lifetime sentence at 16.

Sounds like a recipe for a bestseller, stay tuned for more on Quan right here on RESPECT.

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The post Don’t Call It A Comeback: Quan Drops “Tainted” [Watch] appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

If you are a Nas fan, you probably remember his 2006 song called “Just A Moment”, from his album Streets Disciple. If you remember that, then you also remember the Quan who was featured singing on the song’s hook. He even opened up the record with a verse of his own.

So where has Quan, aka Don Ferquan been since then?

After laying relatively low for the last few years, Quan resurfaced and released his latest mixtape, www.donferquan.com, a project that he had put out through his very own imprint, Kingz Nation.

Rico Ritchie’s single, “Poppin'” quickly became a banger, especially in the clubs, and now Quan is trying his hand at it, by not only freestyling over it, but also dropping an accompanying visual, which is directed by Chip Stackin.

Watch the clip to “Poppin'”, below and be sure to pick up www.donferquan.com which boasts features from the likes of Ace Hood, Emilio Rojas, fellow Virginian, Pusha T and more. You can also be on the lookout for Quan’s new album, Point of No Return, as well as an upcoming memoir titled, The Thirst.

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Photo: Jeff Otero

There’s no denying that Black Rob has experienced almost every high and low possible– on and off of the mic. From early successes alongside Bad Boy Records to multiple prison sentences, the New York native is far from done. Of course “Whoa!” still gets necks snapping and crowds moving, yes, but Rob is back with all new material and seemingly more focused then ever. With the new Genuine Article record set to be released this coming Tuesday (4/21) fans should expect nothing short of honesty, gritty lyrics and that signature east coast sound we all love. Do expect refreshing production from a solid line-up and features from the likes of Sean Price, Tek and more. Be sure to keep up with him on Twitter and place your pre-order now. Catch our interview with Black Rob below!

Just the other day you stopped up at Sway In The Morning and discussed your latest health issues in detail. It’s great to see you back on your feet and doing what’s necessary to battle this. After the stroke and series of unfortunate events how would you say you’ve been dealing with this?

It’s been hell, man. I beat it already, but you know – I’m maintaining. It’s a good thing to keep this in check, man, because you know I got work to do. We got this album coming out and I have to be ready you know what I mean?

Let’s get right into that. The title of the record, Genuine Article, strikes a few questions. Can you discuss the title a little bit for us?

Yeah man, basically I titled it that because that’s who I am. Everything I say is true. You know, I try to keep it fair and let people know what’s going on. This game ain’t what you think it is. Brothers are out here telling lies. People want to know what truth is. I don’t have time for that lying stuff. I’m always trying to bring the truth, and that’s it.

Fans certainly know Black Rob for always keeping it real on records, dating back to your debut in ’99. There’s no arguing that one.

And that’s it man. The first two albums really banged out. Some people were out there cranking it up, and some apparently missed it. It’s all good. I just try to capitalize off of the truth.

Some heads might forget the stripes you’ve earned throughout your career. You’ve been doing this hip-hop thing for some time now, and have some thick history with Puff and other amazing milestones.

For sure – I definitely feel like I have some stripes. All the other brothers before me were really nice, man. I’m grateful for all of that.

You mention all the others before you. While we’re on the subject, who were some of Black Rob’s biggest influences coming onto the scene as far as music goes?

Awe man, so many to name. Most definitely B.I.G. and Tupac. They were a big influence to get it done for sure. L.O.X. are another one for sure, you know. They’ve helped me out a lot – big up to them. There’s a lot more too that helped me get started.

On the new album you have a joint called “You Need That Real Ish” alongside Sean Price and Tek. We were real excited to see this collaboration. The track has a crazy 90’s vibe, which is refreshing for the real hip-hop heads.

Yeah man, that’s the family. They’ve been really good to me and put me down when I couldn’t find a deal. They put me down and let me go off, so I big them up for that too. We are good friends and we all still come off with the same type of music. They’re real, too, you know what I mean? That’s really all I’m trying to do now – deal with the real people and keep my career going.

What are your thoughts on the current state of hip-hop?

There’s a lot of fruity dudes out here now, man. I don’t want to name any specifics, but we know. On the flip side there are a lot of young brothers coming out and really trying to do something for themselves – like Troy Ave for example. It’s really all about rapping and just telling the truth, you know? And keeping the crowd amplified. That fake shit don’t last too long.

I’m sure fans are curious what you listen to on your own time. What is Black Rob listening to right now?

I listen to the real cats that get it on, man. Sadat X right now – Brand Nubian always kept it real. Shout out to Sadat X. And Busta Rhymes. You know, dudes like that.

On a closing note, what should fans be expecting from you after this album drops? Do you have any tours lined up, spot dates, dope features, etc.?

We have the album release show on Tuesday night, which should be real live (see flyer below). Also, we have the reality series The Come Back Kings alongside Ed Lover, Mr. Cheeks and more coming soon, so be sure to keep up with all of that as well. We are looking forward to this album and the worlds response. Thank you for your time and God Bless.

Peace and love. Extra thanks to Jackie O.

The post Black Rob On New ‘Genuine Article’ Lp, Recent Health Issues, Brand Nubian & More appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

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