Fat Joe Talks Star-Studded ‘Another Round’ Remix Featuring Mary J. Blige, Fabolous, Kirko Bangz, and Chris Brown
Fat Joe has once again proven that his presence in hip-hop remains as strong as ever with the release of the star-studded remix for “Another Round.” Featuring Mary J. Blige, Fabolous, Kirko Bangz, and original collaborator Chris Brown, the remix brings together a diverse lineup of talent, blending R&B and hip-hop elements seamlessly. For fans of both genres, this remix is a masterclass in collaboration, showing how legends and rising stars can come together to create a hit that appeals to multiple generations.
Mary J. Blige’s First Collaboration with Fat Joe
For the first time in his two-decade career, Fat Joe teamed up with the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige, on the “Another Round” remix. While the two have worked in the same circles for years, this marks their first-ever collaboration, and it did not disappoint. In a recent interview with XXL, Fat Joe revealed that he had always wanted to work with Blige but was hesitant to reach out to her unless he had the perfect hit. That moment finally came when Blige heard “Another Round” and personally requested to be part of the remix.
“I always wanted to rock with her,” Joe explained, “but I was like, ‘If I tell Mary to get on a joint and it ain’t a big hit, then that shit ain’t a good look.’” Once Blige expressed her interest in the song, however, Joe didn’t waste time. He immediately sent her the track, and she delivered a verse that left him, and fans, in awe. “She got on it and bodied that bitch,” Fat Joe proudly declared.
Blige’s soulful, powerhouse vocals add an extra layer of depth to the remix, transforming the song into a timeless anthem that blends R&B and hip-hop effortlessly.
Fabolous: A Go-To for Female-Driven Hits
Fabolous’s addition to the “Another Round” remix comes as no surprise. As Fat Joe explained in the interview, Fab has long been the “go-to guy” for tracks that appeal to women. His smooth, laid-back delivery and clever punchlines have made him a favorite for songs with romantic undertones, and his contribution to the remix reinforces that reputation.
“When you talking to the young ladies, Fab’s your Bin Laden,” Joe joked, adding that Fabolous was the first person he thought of to bring the right vibe to the remix. Fab’s verse adds a lyrical edge to the track, balancing out the more melodic elements with his signature flow. His presence helps solidify the remix’s appeal to both R&B and hip-hop audiences, making it a standout in Fat Joe’s catalog of collaborations.
Kirko Bangz Represents the New Generation
Fat Joe didn’t stop with just established stars for the “Another Round” remix. He also tapped rising Houston rapper Kirko Bangz, who is making waves with his hit single “Drank In My Cup.” At the time, Kirko is quickly becoming a household name, and his appearance on this remix only furthers his momentum.
In the interview, Joe explained that he wanted to include someone from the new generation of hip-hop who could bring fresh energy to the track. “Then you got Kirko Bangz…he’s on fire out of Houston,” Joe said, reflecting on how quickly Bangz agreed to the feature. His melodic flow and ability to blend rapping with singing made him a perfect fit for the song’s smooth vibe, bridging the gap between the classic and modern sounds of hip-hop.
Chris Brown Continues to Anchor the Track
As with the original version of “Another Round,” Chris Brown remains a central figure in the remix, holding the song together with his infectious hook. Brown’s smooth vocals perfectly complement the verses delivered by Mary J. Blige, Fabolous, and Kirko Bangz, ensuring that the remix stays true to the laid-back, romantic tone that made the original a hit.
Brown’s ability to move effortlessly between R&B and hip-hop continues to make him one of the most sought-after collaborators in the industry, and his contribution to the remix showcases why. His performance on “Another Round” helps elevate the track, making it one of the standout remixes of 2012.
Fat Joe’s Everlasting Presence in Hip-Hop
With “Another Round” and its remix, Fat Joe is proving that his career is far from over. After stepping back from the spotlight for a few years, the Bronx rapper has returned with renewed energy and focus. In his interview with XXL, Joe made it clear that he’s not done making hits. “This is what I love to do,” he said, adding that his goal is to carry the torch for the hip-hop veterans who’ve been in the game for decades.
At 41 years old, Fat Joe shows no signs of slowing down. His ability to bring together some of the biggest names in music, while also giving space to rising stars like Kirko Bangz, speaks to his understanding of the changing landscape of hip-hop. By combining both classic and contemporary sounds, Joe continues to remain relevant in an industry that’s constantly evolving.
The Remix as a Bridge Between Generations
The “Another Round” remix isn’t just another track—it’s a perfect example of how collaboration can bridge the gap between musical generations. With Mary J. Blige representing the golden era of R&B, Fabolous holding down the early 2000s hip-hop vibe, and Kirko Bangz bringing fresh energy from the 2010s, this remix encapsulates the evolution of hip-hop and R&B over the years.
Fat Joe’s ability to curate this diverse lineup showcases his ear for talent and his understanding of how to make music that appeals to both longtime fans and new listeners. As “Another Round” continues to gain traction, this remix is sure to become a standout in Fat Joe’s extensive catalog of hits.
Conclusion: Fat Joe’s Lasting Legacy and Forward Momentum
Fat Joe’s “Another Round” remix serves as a testament to his enduring influence in both hip-hop and R&B. By bringing together legends like Mary J. Blige and rising stars like Kirko Bangz, Joe proves that he has a keen ear for talent and a unique ability to create music that resonates across generations. The remix is not just a celebration of his longevity but also a signal of where he’s headed next. As Fat Joe prepares for his upcoming album, fans can expect more collaborations, more hits, and more reminders that he is still one of the most versatile artists in the game.
