Jhené Aiko is setting sail in 2013. Fresh off the “Life Is Good/Black Rage” tour with Nas and Ms. Lauryn Hill, the L.A. songstress is gearing up for the release of her highly-anticipated debut Souled Out.
Rap-Up TV caught up with Jhené backstage during the second to last stop of the tour at The Wiltern, where she discussed opening for the hip-hop icons (“It was a no-brainer… They’re living legends”), her new song “What a Life,” and upcoming album.
“It’s very introspective and just my feelings on tracks,” said the 24-year-old, who has worked with No I.D. (Kanye West, Nas), KeY Wane (“Amen”), the Fisticuffs, and Dot Da Genius (Kid Cudi). The project will also include collaborations with TDE’s Ab-Soul, Big Sean, and some surprise guests.
“Sean is very goofy and he’s very easygoing, very humble. It doesn’t really feel like work,” said Jhené of recording with the G.O.O.D. Music MC.
Despite all the buzz surrounding her debut, she remains humble. “I don’t really set expectations. I appreciate everything that’s happening.”
Watch the dark video for Jhené’s latest song “Mirrors” and download her single “3:16AM” on iTunes.
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