Classic Cuts Hip Hop News 7/10/12

The Wu-Tang Clan's 20-year existence is staggering. Even today, the multifaceted crew commands the attention of Hip-Hop fans the world over. Method Man, the first breakout star from the Staten Island and Brooklyn- based unit, still has one of the most potent flows on the planet and promises he'll keep delivering quality music, if the people want it.
Mr. Meth sat down with AllHipHop to talk about his upcoming fifth solo record Crystal Meth alongside The RZA, his work with Redman with the well-received Blackout series and showing a little edge towards rap critics who slept on his skills.

'Me and RZA are gonna work together on my next LP Crystal Meth,' said Method Man. 'I'm looking forward to getting back in the studio with the kid. We just came off a Wu tour and the camaraderie was still there so I know the chemistry is gonna be there when we go in the studio.' Method wasn't firm on a timeline for release but did say he's working hard on recording.

Method Man isn't chasing fame at this stage of his career, already proving he can make hits and rock stages. 'As far as mainstream goes, I'm not concerned too tough with that. I've been there, done that,' said Meth. 'If it's still fans out there listening, I'm definitely coming with some sh-t for you.'

Along with Crystal Meth, the Shaolin swordsman is linking back up with Redman for a third Blackout album and got a bit testy at the lack of support the record got from his fellow rap luminaries. 'A lot of people slept on Blackout 2. Blackout 2 was dope,' Meth stated plainly. 'I did my thing on that album.'



The late J Dilla died way too soon six years ago at the age of 32. Nevertheless, the storied producer's legacy lives on via his music, the adoration of an ever growing fanbase and now, a vinyl toy made in his likeness. The J Dilla Foundation is releasing the Phil Young Song designed figurine made to look like the indelible James Yancey.

The detailing on the figurine is pretty thorough. Dilla sports a Detroit Tigers fitted, a tee that says 'Dilla Changed My Life,' a chain with a donut charm, a pair of Nike Dunks and an MPC at his side. It better be an Akai MPC60, for those that know. The sure to be a collector's item will be available later this year. A posthumous album called Rebirth of Detroit, was released this past June.



The 'Pitbull In A Skirt,' Eve made her big return to the stage this past weekend at the 'SummerJam for old folks' also known as, the Essence Festival. The bombshell performed many of her Ruff Ryders hits including 'Love Is Blind,' and 'Who's That Girl.' She also performed her final hit single 'Tambourine,' which came out close to ten years ago.

Eve spoke with TIME last week and said that she blames Interscope Records for the hault in her career. The last time we heard from her was in 2002 with the release of EVE-olution, but she is getting ready to return in 2012 with LipLock. Hit the jump to see her return to the stage at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.