Nas [ tickets ] is set to release his untitled new album July 15 on Def Jam Recordings. The set, which follows-up Nas' Def Jam debut, "Hip-Hop Is Dead," is the artist's ninth album. Nas said in a statement, "I want my fans to know that creatively and lyrically, they can expect the same content and the same messages. It's that important. The streets have been waiting for this for a long time. The people will always know what the real title of this album is and what to call it."

Nas enlisted several producers to work on the new album, which he first planned to title "N---er". Its first official single, "Hero," was produced by Polow Da Don. Other producers on the new release include DJ Green Lantern, DJ Toomp, Stargate, Cool & Dre, Jay Electronica, Stic.Man of Dead Prez, and 2008 Grammy producer of the year Mark Ronson; the Ronson-produced cut, "Fried Chicken," features guest artist Busta Rhymes.