Mobb Deep Makes Triumphant Return With New EP, Due on Black Friday
After a five-year hiatus, Mobb Deep is officially making their return with a brand-new EP set for release on Black Friday, November 25, 2011. Following Prodigy’s release from prison earlier this year, the duo wasted no time getting back into the studio. As a result, recording dozens of tracks. Now, with a fresh deal through Sony’s RED Distribution, Mobb Deep is taking full control of their music. Thus, preparing to drop their first project under their own Infamous Records imprint.
Havoc and Prodigy are known for their gritty East Coast sound and raw lyricism. So, they are looking to make an impact with this upcoming EP. The project will mark their first official release since 2006’s Blood Money and is expected to bring Mobb Deep’s signature sound back to the forefront.
Mobb Deep Confirms Black Friday EP Release
In an exclusive interview with XXL, Havoc revealed that the duo’s new EP is completed and scheduled for a Black Friday release. While they haven’t finalized a title, they have confirmed that the project will feature between seven and eight songs.
“We have an EP coming on Black Friday,” Havoc stated. “We didn’t come up with a title yet, but we’ll have a title that will mean something. It will be like seven or eight songs. I did like three. We have some produced by J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, Alchemist, and this kid named Young Free.”
The announcement has generated excitement among longtime fans eager to hear new material from the legendary duo. With their return to independent music distribution, Mobb Deep is in full control of their creative vision, ensuring that this project stays true to their roots.
The Producers Behind the EP
Mobb Deep’s upcoming EP will feature production from some of hip-hop’s most respected names. Havoc, a renowned producer in his own right, has contributed multiple beats to the project. Additionally, the duo has enlisted The Alchemist, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, and up-and-coming producer Young Free to craft the soundscape of their highly anticipated release.
The Alchemist, a longtime collaborator of Mobb Deep, has a reputation for producing haunting, boom-bap-driven beats that align perfectly with the duo’s hardcore lyrical style. The J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, known for their polished and cinematic production, brings a different texture to the project, potentially adding new layers to Mobb Deep’s signature sound. Young Free’s involvement signals the group’s willingness to work with fresh talent while maintaining their legendary status.
Why Mobb Deep Chose Independence Over G-Unit
After Prodigy’s release from prison, speculation arose that Mobb Deep might return to G-Unit Records, where they previously released Blood Money. However, Havoc revealed that while they considered rejoining 50 Cent’s label, they ultimately decided to carve their own path.
“That was definitely something we all were considering,” Havoc said. “We sat down with 50. At the end of the day, us and 50 are still cool. We’re good. But what everybody concluded was that [we] need to go do [our] own thing with no restraints. That was the best decision everybody could have made.”
This decision led to their partnership with Sony’s RED Distribution, giving them the resources to distribute their music while maintaining full creative control. This move ensures that Mobb Deep remains true to their vision and legacy, without industry constraints dictating their sound.
What This EP Means for Mobb Deep’s Legacy
Mobb Deep’s return is more than just a musical comeback—it’s a reaffirmation of their legacy in hip-hop. With nearly two decades in the game, Havoc and Prodigy have influenced generations of artists with their unapologetic storytelling and street-centric themes. Their decision to release an EP before a full-length album demonstrates their strategic approach to reintroducing themselves to the modern rap landscape.
By taking control of their own label and distribution, Mobb Deep is setting a precedent for veteran artists looking to maintain relevance without sacrificing creative integrity. This EP is not just about making music—it’s about proving that their impact on hip-hop remains as strong as ever.
What to Expect from the EP
While no official track list has been released, Havoc has hinted that the EP will stay true to Mobb Deep’s signature style—raw, unfiltered, and filled with street narratives. Additionally, he teased that a major guest feature might appear on the project, though the artist’s identity remains under wraps.
“So far we haven’t recorded with any guests,” Havoc stated, “but we have one secret cameo from a huge artist that is currently in the works.”
Fans are speculating who this mystery guest could be, with names like Nas, Raekwon, and Ghostface Killah floating around as possibilities. If Mobb Deep manages to secure a heavyweight feature, it would add even more excitement to an already highly anticipated release.
Mobb Deep’s Upcoming Performance at Webster Hall
Leading up to the EP’s release, Mobb Deep will be performing their classic album The Infamous in its entirety at a special event at New York City’s Webster Hall on September 27, 2011. The performance is part of Red Bull Music Academy’s World Tour and will give fans a chance to experience their groundbreaking 1995 album live.
This event serves as the perfect lead-in to the EP, reminding fans why Mobb Deep remains one of the most influential duos in hip-hop. For many, it will be a nostalgic experience. Meanwhile, for newer listeners, it will be an introduction to the raw, unfiltered essence of Mobb Deep’s music.
Final Thoughts
Mobb Deep’s announcement of their upcoming EP marks a significant moment in hip-hop. Their return signifies more than just new music—it’s a statement that they are still a force to be reckoned with. By taking an independent route and securing a deal through RED Distribution, Havoc and Prodigy are ensuring that their music remains authentic to their vision.
With a confirmed Black Friday release date, top-tier production, and a potential star-studded guest appearance, anticipation for Mobb Deep’s EP is at an all-time high. As hip-hop fans await the return of one of the genre’s most respected duos, one thing is clear: Mobb Deep is here to reclaim their throne.
Stay tuned for further updates as Mobb Deep gears up for one of the most anticipated releases of the year.