Hip-hop has always been about evolution, but lately, something powerful has been happening: a full-circle return to the roots that made the genre iconic. Erick Sermon, one of rap’s most respected producers and MCs, believes this resurgence isn’t by accident. It’s a well-deserved comeback sparked by artists who’ve stayed true to the essence of real hip-hop.
As trends shift and commercial hits dominate playlists, there’s been a growing hunger for authenticity. Sermon sees today’s renewed love for soulful beats and lyrical storytelling as a movement that’s been slowly building for years. From Queensbridge to Virginia Beach, the culture is celebrating its foundations again, and Sermon couldn’t be prouder.
In a recent conversation with Rock The Bells, the EPMD legend explained how a few key projects reignited that classic hip-hop energy. According to him, this moment represents more than nostalgia; it’s proof that the golden era never truly left, it just evolved.
Nas, Common, and Clipse lead hip-hop’s modern renaissance
Sermon gave major credit to Nas for starting this cultural shift with his King’s Disease series, a Grammy-winning run that reintroduced the world to timeless hip-hop craftsmanship. “Nas and King’s Disease back to back was the beginning,” Sermon said, reflecting on the project’s influence. “Then you had Common and Pete Rock (with The Auditorium Vol. 1).”
However, Erick Sermon believes it was Let The Lord Sort ’Em Out, the latest release from Clipse, that truly reignited the spark. “I would argue with anybody that there were no eyes put on what we are doing right now until after the Clipse’s latest album came out,” he said.
The project’s gritty storytelling and unapologetic delivery didn’t just make noise; it reminded fans of the power and authenticity that built hip-hop’s foundation in the first place.
Keeping the legacy alive through collaboration
Beyond giving props, Sermon is actively pushing the culture forward. His long-awaited Dynamic Duos project will arrive in three volumes, each one packed with legends. Volume One alone features Mobb Deep, Public Enemy, Cypress Hill, M.O.P., Conway The Machine, The Game, 38 Spesh, and even an EPMD reunion.
He also praised Mass Appeal’s Legend Has It campaign, which is spotlighting timeless icons like Slick Rick, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, De La Soul, Big L, and Nas & DJ Premier. Together, these projects prove that hip-hop’s roots remain alive, evolving, and influencing new generations.
Erick Sermon’s words remind fans everywhere that the heart of hip-hop still beats strong, it’s just finding new ways to speak truth through rhythm and rhyme.