JAY-Z & Nas’ Long-Lost Collab Finally Drops as Shaq’s ’96 Classic Hits Streaming
The Resurrection of a Hip-Hop Myth
In a twist straight out of hip-hop folklore, JAY-Z and Nas’ long-buried gem “No Love Lost” has finally seen the light of day, courtesy of none other than Shaquille O’Neal. This unexpected revelation comes as Shaq’s third album, You Can’t Stop the Reign, hits streaming platforms for the first time on June 28. Listen to the song below.
A Time Capsule of Legends
This 19-track album is a veritable time capsule, featuring some of the biggest names in hip-hop history, including the late Notorious B.I.G., Mobb Deep, Rakim, DJ Quik, and Bobby Brown. However, the real headliner is “No Love Lost,” now fully polished and glistening with verses from JAY-Z, Nas, and Lord Tariq.
Stream all your favorite throwback hip-hop jams
The Secret Unveiled
Originally, this Trackmasters production appeared on Shaq’s 1996 LP with verses from just JAY-Z and Lord Tariq. Nas’ involvement was a well-kept secret, only known through a leak in the early 2000s—right when the Nas and Hov beef was at its peak, leaving many fans skeptical of its authenticity.
The First Alliance
“No Love Lost” stands out as the first studio alliance between these two rap giants. Yet, not long after, they’d be trading subliminal shots—think Nas’ “The Message,” also a ’96 drop. Get in the mix and vibe to “No Love Lost” below, and be sure to stream You Can’t Stop the Reign in its entirety.
Related: Nas’ Masterpiece: The ‘Illmatic’ Story 30 Years Later
The Missing Verse
As if the collab wasn’t epic enough, there’s a twist: Biggie was supposed to grace the track too. Shaq spilled this nugget on Drink Champs in 2022, explaining that sample clearance and publishing hurdles kept the Notorious B.I.G. from blessing the beat.
“People didn’t clear it, but I didn’t take it personal,” Shaq revealed. “Me being in the studio with Nas, I’m happy. I get to call my boy and say, ‘Come over, Nas here.’ I get to call my boy and say, ‘Jay in here.’ I get to call my boys and say, ‘Yo, Biggie at the house, he bout to jump in the seat.’ That’s what it’s all about.”
Related: Jay-Z and Ice-T: Unraveling the 99 Mysteries
Shaq’s Reflections
Reflecting on his rap venture, the four-time NBA champ added: “And not to disrespect you guys, it wasn’t enough money in that for me. I went platinum, right? And they showed me the check, and I was like, ‘This some bullshit.’”
Final Thoughts
The unveiling of “No Love Lost” marks a historic moment in hip-hop, bridging a gap between two legendary MCs during a pivotal time in their careers. With Shaq’s You Can’t Stop the Reign now available for streaming, fans can relive a golden era of rap and appreciate the timeless collaborations that have shaped the genre.
