Nas talks “Me and Mr. Jones” collaboration with Amy Winehouse
Nas talks Me and Mr. Jones collaboration with Amy Winehouse
In the years leading up to her tragic death, Amy Winehouse captured the world’s attention with her raw talent, soulful voice. Also, she had a unique blend of jazz, blues, and hip-hop influences in her music. One of the most poignant connections she forged in the music industry was with legendary rapper Nas. Their relationship, both personal and professional, is immortalized in the hauntingly beautiful track, “Me and Mr. Jones.” That song can be found on her critically acclaimed album, Back to Black.
The Genesis of “Me and Mr. Jones”
Amy Winehouse released Back to Black in 2006. While the album quickly became a sensation in the UK, it wasn’t until the summer of 2007 that she truly broke through in the United States. During her rise to fame, Winehouse often spoke candidly about her musical influences. In several interviews, she expressed her deep admiration for Nas and Jay-Z. Those two are icons of the hip-hop world who had a profound impact on her music.
“Me and Mr. Jones,” a standout track on the album, quickly sparked curiosity among listeners. The title alone seemed to reference Nas, whose real name is Nasir Jones. Fans and critics alike speculated that the song was a tribute to the rapper, with its lyrics hinting at a deep, personal connection.
Nas on the Inspiration Behind the Song
In a revealing interview with XXL, Nas confirmed that “Me and Mr. Jones” was indeed about him. The two artists shared a special bond, one that was rooted in mutual respect and a shared love for music that transcends genres. Nas recalled how he first heard about the track:
“I don’t really remember if Salaam, who was really close to her, who introduced us, if he told me about it or not,” Nas told XXL. “I don’t remember right now. But, I heard a lot about it before I even heard the song.”
Nas further elaborated on their friendship, describing it as organic and unpretentious. “Amy was real, and that’s what I loved about her. She wasn’t trying to be something she wasn’t. She was just herself, and that’s what made her music so powerful.”
A Friendship That Transcended Music
The connection between Nas and Amy Winehouse went beyond mere musical admiration. Both artists were born on September 14, a coincidence that they often joked about. Nas revealed that they had plans to celebrate their birthdays together, a testament to the close bond they shared.
Tragically, those plans never came to fruition. Amy Winehouse passed away on July 23, 2011, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence artists across the globe. In the wake of her death, Nas was one of the many who paid tribute to her, reflecting on what could have been.
The Lasting Impact of “Me and Mr. Jones”
“Me and Mr. Jones” stands as a testament to the unique friendship between Nas and Amy Winehouse. The song captures the essence of their relationship—one that was marked by mutual respect, shared influences, and a deep connection that transcended music. For Nas, the track is more than just a song; it’s a reminder of a friendship that was cut short but will forever be cherished.
Amy Winehouse’s influence on music and culture remains undeniable, and her collaboration with Nas is a powerful reminder of her ability to bridge different musical worlds. As fans continue to listen to Back to Black, “Me and Mr. Jones” serves as a poignant reminder of the bond between two of music’s most influential artists.
Source: XXL