Raekwon Talks New Mixtape, Aftermath Rumors and Cuban Linx 2

While his Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2 album doesn't drop until March of '09, Raekwon says he has a few projects lined up in the meantime. While out on business in LA, Rae talked with LA Weekly about how he plans to hold down a demanding fan base for the next few months.

"Were definitely making a Cuban Link bonus DVD for everyone to check out thats worth a look," The Chef says. "At the same time, were doing a book called the Purple Book, which is the memoirs of everything that Ive been through in this game and what the significance of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx is."

Raekwon added that a mixtape entitled "Burning Bags" will be dropping shortly, possibly as a free Internet release. Rae also explained why he thinks the year-long delay of the album is worth the wait.

"The RZA, the legendary J Dilla, Dr Dre. and just those three elements there, thats really dangerous, the heat is crazy," Raekwon says. "Its an underground record. I kept each producer in the zone. Youd never know that the record had all these different producers if I didnt tell you, because they came with gritty beats to make a gritty album. We came with a couple energy boosters to get the stadiums jumping but for the most part, its the same type of storytelling."

Raekwon plans to release Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2 on his own Ice Water Inc. label, aborting plans of what many hoped would be a Hip Hop fans dream collaboration.

"Well, me and the label, we couldnt come to the right terms," Rae says of his hopes to join Aftermath Entertainment. "Dre had a lot of projects he was working on and you know me, knowing how important OB4CL2 was, I needed him next to me the way I wanted...but we kept a mutual respect and friendship. We both big fans of each [other], and it wasnt a big thing. Dre is somebody whos very busy and who works hard like me."