Veteran rapper Grand Puba is returning to rap with a clean slate with his fourth solo album, Retroactive.
The forthcoming release is under a new deal with New York City based independent record label Babygrande Records.
Best known as a member of the rap collective Brand Nubian, Grand Puba has carved his own niche as a solo artist since his 1992 debut album Reel 2 Reel and follow-up 2000.
Brand Nubian’s music and lyrical content is noted for its political and religious vibe.
The group is also credited with paving the way for a variety of entertainers and groups, including Dead Prez, Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA and GZA, Black Star and Brother Ali.
Although he reunited with Brand Nubian in 1998 to release two albums for Babygrande, (Foundation and 2004’s Fire In The Hole), the new signing marks the first time Puba has dealt with the label as a solo act.
According to Babygrande CEO Chuck Wilson, the label’s newest addition comes as a natural extension of his label’s relationship with Brand Nubian.
“Grand Puba is the father to so many styles in Hip-Hop. Its good to have him back–the game needs him,” Wilson told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “We have a great relationship with Brand Nubian and we had so much success with Lord Jamar’s solo release in 2006 that it only makes sense to keep it in the family.”
Grand Puba’s Retroactive is slated to hit stores on June 23.