Rick Ross Confirms ‘Deeper Than Rap’ Release Date

Despite a high profile feud with rapper 50 Cent, Miami’s Rick Ross is focusing his energy back on music and his anticipated third studio album Deeper Than Rap.   So far, many of the LPs leaked tracks have a distinct, soulful R&B edge that harkens back to the smooth sounds of the early and mid […]

Despite a high profile feud with rapper 50 Cent, Miami’s Rick Ross is focusing his energy back on music and his anticipated third studio album Deeper Than Rap.

 

So far, many of the LPs leaked tracks have a distinct, soulful R&B edge that harkens back to the smooth sounds of the early and mid 90s.

 

According to Ross, this noticeable element was inspired by one of the album’s superstar guests, celebrated songstress Mary J. Blige.

 

Perhaps the most anticipated guest appearances revolve around Kanye West and Lil Wayne.

 

Both are confirmed for “Maybach Music 2,” the sequel to the original which featured Jay-Z, from Ross’ 2008 #1 album, Trilla.

 

Referring to the original track as “timeless,” Ross was reluctant to compare it with the sequel, instead referencing both as exceptional, independent works.

 

“I would never disrespect that record and those rhymes,” Ross stated. “Just to say I topped it [the original]… and it [Maybach Music 2] is special.”

 

Another anticipated team-up features elite Queens-bred lyricist Nas on the Inkredibles produced “Usual Suspects.”

 

The song, which has yet to leak, will mark their first one-on-one collaboration.

 

Other producers lending their talents to the album include The Runners (“Laid Back,” “Boss Lady,” and “In Cold Blood), J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League (“Magnificent”) Tricky Stewart (“All I Want”),Bigg D (“Murder Miami”), Bink! (“Cigar Music”), and Drumma Boy (“Face”).

 

Deeper Than Rap is set to hit stores April 21 through Ross’ own Maybach Music imprint and Def Jam.

 

With it, Ross is attempting to score his third #1 and gold certified album, following 2006’s Port of Miami and 2008’s Trilla.