Sudanese-American rapper Bas, known for his contemplative artistry, recently unveiled details surrounding his latest collaborative album, 'Melanchronica,' created alongside the London-based duo The Hics. This deeply personal project, years in the making, faced unexpected obstacles, particularly concerning the clearance of a pivotal sample. Bas’s narrative not only sheds light on the intricacies of music production and legalities but also underscores the profound connections artists share across time and influence, painting a vivid picture of dedication to creative vision.
Artist's Journey: The \"Four Walls\" Saga and Collaborative Evolution
In a revealing conversation with Rolling Stone on July 9, 2025, Bas shared the demanding path to releasing 'Melanchronica.' The album's poignant track, "Four Walls," encountered persistent rejections for its sample, leading to a crucial revelation: the sample originated from Erykah Badu's "Telephone," a piece composed with Questlove and James Poyser in the aftermath of hip-hop legend J Dilla's passing in 2008. Badu's song, inspired by Dilla's mother's accounts of his final visions, carried immense sentimental weight.
Initially unaware of the sample’s sacred origins, Bas described feeling a profound sense of remorse upon discovery, contemplating abandoning the track. “I just felt like an asshole,” Bas candidly admitted, acknowledging the pure intentions behind Badu’s original creation as a tribute to J Dilla. However, a surprising phone call from Ms. Badu herself transformed the situation. Despite Bas’s apprehension about asking for permission to use such a personal piece, Badu, with remarkable grace, granted her approval, expressing admiration for Bas and the Dreamville collective.
Bas also reflected on the eight-year creative journey of 'Melanchronica,' highlighting that the extended timeline allowed for meticulous refinement rather than hindrance. The album's distinct "melancholy world" was a result of this unhurried process, enabling the trio to focus on thematic cohesion without external pressures to produce commercial hits. The completion of "Sometimes," an epic seven-and-a-half-minute outro, marked the album's final touch. This sprawling track, recorded at the now-lost Harbor Studios in Malibu, embodies their commitment to uncompromised artistic expression, a rarity in today's fast-paced music landscape.
The unique collaboration between Bas and The Hics began unexpectedly through the video game 'Grand Theft Auto.' Bas discovered The Hics' music, specifically "Cold Air" from their EP 'Tangle,' on the game's radio in 2015. This serendipitous encounter led to an immediate connection and their first collaboration, "Ricochet," for Bas’s second album, 'How to Riot.' Looking ahead, Bas expressed a keen interest in having a track from 'Melanchronica' featured in a future 'Grand Theft Auto' installment, seeing it as a poetic full-circle moment for their unique artistic bond.
Reflections on Artistic Integrity and Legacy
The journey of 'Melanchronica' and the unexpected interaction with Erykah Badu offers a powerful lesson in artistic humility and the unexpected generosity that can emerge within the music community. Bas's initial trepidation stemmed from a deep respect for Badu's work and its personal significance, a sentiment that ultimately resonated with the legendary artist. This experience highlights that genuine artistic connection can transcend commercial formalities, fostering a rare moment of mentorship and affirmation. For many artists, including Bas, the legacy of J Dilla and the neo-soul pioneers he influenced, like Erykah Badu, continues to shape and inspire their creative endeavors. It underscores the profound impact of those who pave the way, reminding us that true artistry is often built on foundations of shared passion and mutual respect. As the music industry evolves, such stories of intergenerational support and integrity become increasingly vital, offering a hopeful perspective on the future of creative collaboration.