Nas Back with Sony Music in Mass Appeal Records Deal
Nas’ Mass Appeal Records has signed a deal with Sony Music’s subsidiary company The Orchard. He secured a three-year distribution deal with Universal Music Group.
Nas has signed a deal with Sony Music, which also includes releasing his own music through the label. This marks a significant milestone for the Queensbridge rapper as he returns to Sony Music, the same label he worked with for his early albums like Illmatic, It Was Written, and I Am…, before joining Def Jam in 2006.
Nas expressed his excitement about this homecoming, calling it a full circle moment. He sees this partnership as an opportunity to continue pushing the culture forward, educating, and inspiring. Nas is thrilled to be a part of this initiative and is looking forward to the journey ahead.
Perks of Being With Mass Appeal Records
Founded in 2014, Mass Appeal Records’ entire roster will be able to access The Orchard’s label and artist services. This includes everything from distribution and marketing to licensing, videos, data analysis, advertising, rights management, and radio promotion.
Mass Appeal CEO’s Excitement
Mass Appeal CEO Peter Bittenbender offered his opinion on the deal.
“We’re excited to be back with The Orchard team. Brad and his staff have done an amazing job, and we’re eager to bring our exceptional talent and projects to further elevate their presence in the Hip Hop industry. We have big plans, including a significant project for our Hip Hop 50 platform.”
Nas Discusses Rap Culture Trend
As a result of a shift in interests and business power moves in the industry, a lot has changed in 15 years. During his December 2006 interview with Complex, Nas explained how rap music was a priority for Def Jam, more than Sony Music.
“Things are going well,” he said. “Sony is a big company, not really known for rap music. Def Jam, on the other hand, is more involved in Hip Hop, more genuine, if you know what I mean.”
Later in the interview, Nas revealed he mentioned his decision to turn down the opportunity at Atlantic records. The offer was for him to be co-president of Atlantic Records alongside current CEO, Craig Kallman.
“It is a big position for Craig Kallman or for Irv Gotti, but I rap,” he said. “A president is something to do when you’re in somebody like [JAY-Z’s] position. Jay had hit a moment where he felt he needed to take the time off, so then it’s a great position. That’s not where I’m at. I don’t want to deal with artists, artists are fucking crazy. They want to blame me for shit and I can’t deal with that right now.”
A Fresh Vision for Nas
Previously, Nas made the decision to refrain from working with other artists. Now he’s spearheaded a new record deal. Stay tuned for what greatness comes from an artist being under his tutelage. And in the meantime, listen to “Sorry Not Sorry” if you’re in need of a pick-me-up.
