Although Slaughterhouse, arguably one of the most talented Hip Hop groups ever assembled, is no more, two of its former members have decided to continue with the collaborations.
On Thursday (May 6), Joell Ortiz and KXNG Crooked revealed that they had been cooking up a full-length album by the name of H.A.R.D. and rolled out a single by the same name.
The Heatmakerz-produced track features vocalist MRK SX and chronicles the two venerable MCs’ humble beginnings to current and is dedicated to fellow lyricist Fred The Godson, who succumbed to coronavirus-related complications on April 23.
“It felt great to catch up with my bro and chop it up!” Joell exclaimed to Complex, who premiered the track. “We’re like long lost cousins. Crook and I grew up 2,800 miles apart under the same conditions. Poverty, struggle, injustice, etc. Whenever we get together we have rap discussions and world talks that almost always turn into legendary childhood stories. This time was no different, except, this time we ended up in the vocal booth. This is ‘H.A.R.D.’ (Housing Authority Rap District). Enjoy!!!”
Joell’s West Coast counterpart shared his enthusiasm lamenting, “All of this shit was meant to happen. 2020 has been rough for a lot of people so I’m glad we can bless the culture with high art. One of my favorite things about this project is the fact that I got to hang out with Fred The Godson during the creative process. I don’t think Joell would mind me speaking for him when I say this project is dedicated to the loving memory of Fred. Hope y’all fuck with it.”
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The eight-track album will be released on May 29, Mello Music Group. In addition to production from Heatmakerz, H.A.R.D. will also sport beats from !llMind, Erick Sermon, Apollo Brown, and J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League.
Listen to “H.A.R.D.” below and check out the cover art and tracklist.