According to both ?uestlove and Jay-Z, The Roots’ drummer and producer has been advising Jay-Z on all matters concerning his final opus, “The Black Album.” The grammy award winner is respected as one of the top musical talents in hip-hop and Jay is looking for his insight in choosing artists and producers to create a final classic.
The emcee and producer have kept in contact in every way possible, from the phone, email to the 2-way. ?uest recently broke the news on the okayplayer.com message board. “I think he should bring it on home, sure–Reasonable Doubt is dope, but I know and he knows….that he has yet to make his ‘Illmatic.’” He has suggested Jay reunite with Primo, Ski and Pain In Da Ass for production, as well as The Beatnuts, DJ Quik and Jay Dee. He says the only guest spots should come from Freeway and Nas!?!?!
“We’re on the same page, almost,” said Jay-z in his response to ?uest’s list. “I’ll have Beatnuts, Jay Dee, who I love, fight this one out.” Jay has also mentioned that he will seeking beats from the 80’s top producers in Marley Marl and Rick Ruben. Interestingly, Jay has received beat submissions from both Jay Dee and Primo for his last couple albums, only to reject them.
