N.O.R.E. talks making up with Nas in Miami, Fat Joe, Big Pun, Dame Dash, record executive ambitions, Ja Rule, Def Jam, Jay Z, DMX, and more with “The Breakfast Club” [VIDEO]

N.O.R.E. has taken to The Breakfast Club for an in-depth conversation on his music career, giving hip-hop fans a highly anticipated look into his recent reunion with Nas. The rapper, known for his work in the iconic duo Capone-N-Noreaga, dives into the evolution of his career and the resolution of his long-standing feud with Nas. Reuniting at Club L.I.V. in Miami, the two Queens natives rekindled their friendship, with Nas reportedly leading with an apology. N.O.R.E. mentions, “When we reconciled, the first thing the man said to me was ‘sorry,’” reflecting on a moment he considers legendary.

Ending Beef with Nas: A Brotherhood Renewed

A central highlight of N.O.R.E.’s interview is his reunion with Nas. Their friendship famously turned sour in the early 2000s, when Nas publicly challenged N.O.R.E.’s place in hip-hop. During a 2002 interview on Power 105, Nas mentioned N.O.R.E., urging him to improve his rap game—a statement that sparked years of tension between the Queens natives.

But as N.O.R.E. recounts, their Miami reunion has transformed that tension into mutual respect. Both rappers were at Club L.I.V., where N.O.R.E. says they quickly hashed out their issues, realizing that the past wasn’t worth holding onto. For fans of both MCs, the rekindled friendship between two icons of East Coast hip-hop represents the genre’s ability to grow and evolve.

Honoring Big Pun’s Legacy and Fat Joe’s Influence

As he dives into memories with other hip-hop legends, N.O.R.E. expresses a strong sentiment about Big Pun, lamenting that he isn’t respected enough as a legend. He speaks about how Fat Joe played a key role in shaping Big Pun’s approach to music, teaching him how to evolve from a freestyle battler to a hit-making artist. This mentorship left an impression on N.O.R.E., who now sees Joe’s influence as pivotal in bringing up the next generation of artists.

This close relationship with Big Pun and Fat Joe isn’t just a memory for N.O.R.E.; it’s part of his foundation as an artist. By honoring these bonds, N.O.R.E. showcases his commitment to hip-hop culture and his respect for the artists who influenced his journey.

Reflecting on Dame Dash’s Influence and Revisiting State Property

N.O.R.E. also opens up about his time with Dame Dash, the former Roc-A-Fella executive who shaped many aspects of hip-hop in the 2000s. Reflecting on Dame’s influence, N.O.R.E. discusses the State Property film series and Dame’s lasting impact on independent hip-hop. N.O.R.E. recalls how Dame’s belief in autonomy inspired him to pursue his ambitions

N.O.R.E. also opens up about his evolving relationship with Dame Dash. After Dame’s memorable Breakfast Club interview earlier this year, Noreaga offered his take on his words. Thus, reaffirming the value of Dame’s influence on his career. Known for his fierce independence, Dame’s outlook on building empires and loyalty has inspired him to carve his path in the music industry. Watching Dame helped reinforce his own dreams of becoming a record executive and supporting emerging artists.

N.O.R.E. credits Dash for instilling a DIY ethos in him, stating that watching Dame build Roc-A-Fella Records pushed him to explore his ambitions beyond music. This evolution mirrors Dash’s own approach to the business, as N.O.R.E. continues to build his brand and expand his influence within hip-hop.

New York’s Unique Bond and the Reality of Fame

N.O.R.E. shares that New York’s hip-hop scene has its unique dynamics, where artists seem to support each other more openly when they’re outside the city’s limits. He notes how, despite rivalries, there’s a strong bond among New York MCs—a mutual respect that often goes unspoken.

During the conversation, N.O.R.E. reflects on his experiences with various East Coast legends, sharing anecdotes about his encounters with LL Cool J, Mobb Deep and Wu-Tang Clan. He mentions that while the New York hip-hop scene is competitive, it’s also united by a shared sense of respect. N.O.R.E. describes how New York artists often show more love for each other when they’re outside the city—a phenomenon that he’s experienced firsthand.

As a rapper who’s worked with icons like Jay-Z, Ja Rule, and DMX, N.O.R.E. emphasizes the value of these relationships. He highlights the unspoken bond that connects East Coast rappers, despite the occasional rivalries and public feuds. This camaraderie, he explains, is what keeps New York’s hip-hop culture strong and resilient.

Ambitions Beyond Music: N.O.R.E.’s Path to Becoming a Record Executive

N.O.R.E. hints at his ambitions to become a record executive, revealing a desire to mentor new talent and provide the guidance he once received. Inspired by industry leaders like Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles, he envisions a future where he can support the next generation of artists. N.O.R.E. believes that his years of experience have equipped him with the skills to make a lasting impact as a music executive.

His entrepreneurial spirit aligns with his larger goal of creating opportunities for young rappers, allowing them to thrive without the struggles he faced. This ambition marks a new chapter for N.O.R.E., who is committed to giving back to the hip-hop community that shaped him.

Tales from the Trenches: DJ Conflicts and Southern Collaborations

Another highlight from the interview includes a wild story about N.O.R.E. confronting a DJ who leaked Capone-N-Noreaga’s album. With a mix of humor and nostalgia, he recalls the incident, showcasing the lengths he went to protect his art.

N.O.R.E. also shares his respect for Southern artists like Lil Wayne, Birdman, Pastor Troy, and David Banner, emphasizing how these collaborations enriched his music. He reflects on working with up-and-coming producers like Pharrell, Swizz Beatz, and Scott Storch before they became industry icons, providing a glimpse into the collaborative process that defines his career.

Conclusion: N.O.R.E.’s Legacy of Loyalty, Growth, and Hip-Hop History

N.O.R.E.’s latest appearance on The Breakfast Club encapsulates his journey from street rapper to cultural icon. His reconciliation with Nas, reflections on Big Pun and Fat Joe, and respect for industry pioneers reveal a seasoned artist who values growth and resilience. By reconnecting with his past and embracing new aspirations, N.O.R.E. is carving out a legacy that honors hip-hop’s roots while looking toward its future.

For fans and hip-hop historians alike, N.O.R.E.’s interview offers a unique blend of nostalgia and inspiration. As he continues to expand his influence, his story serves as a reminder of the genre’s enduring impact and the power of personal evolution in the face of change.