Shaquille O’Neal is set to give streaming platforms a nostalgic throwback with the release of his third studio album, “You Can’t Stop The Reign,” this Friday (June 28), per vibe.com. Fans are particularly excited about a special addition to the original album: an unreleased collaboration between Jay-Z and Nas.
The track, titled “No Love Lost,” circulated online over two decades ago, leading to debates about its authenticity. The skepticism arose due to the notorious feud between Jay-Z and Nas and the track’s unmastered quality. Initially, Shaq released a version featuring Jay-Z and Lord Tariq, sparking rumours that The Notorious B.I.G. was meant to be included.
Now, fans will finally hear the true first collaboration between Jay-Z and Nas.
The four-time NBA Champion previously discussed the hurdles in releasing the record.
“People didn’t clear it, but I didn’t take it personally,” Shaquille O’Neal told Drink Champs in 2022. “Being in the studio with Nas, Jay and even Biggie, that’s what it’s all about.”
Shaq also touched on why he didn’t pursue music more aggressively. “Not to disrespect you guys, but there wasn’t enough money in it for me,” he said. “I went platinum, but the check was disappointing.”
Despite this, the upcoming release of “No Love Lost” marks a significant cultural moment. Jay-Z and Nas have since collaborated on tracks like “Black Republican” in 2006 and “Sorry Not Sorry” in 2021.
- Featured image: Shaquille O’Neal, Jay-Z and Nas Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Warner Bros. Discovery; David Ramos/Getty Images; Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
