Nas, whose father was a jazz musician during Miles Davis’ era, has a deep understanding of just how heavily hip-hop draws from jazz.
In just under a month, the legendary Miles Davis would have marked his 100th birthday. The iconic multi-hyphenate passed away on September 28, 1991, partly due to a stroke. Still, more than three decades later, his influence continues to live on through fans, artists, and historians who keep celebrating his impact.
Because of that lasting legacy, book publisher Simon & Schuster is honoring the milestone. According to Shore Fire Media, the company is set to drop a special centennial edition of Davis’ autobiography, Miles: The Autobiography.
Originally released in 1989, this updated version will come with some exclusive additions for collectors and fans alike.
Among the standout features are two brand-new forewords—one written by acclaimed essayist Hanif Abdurraqib, and the other by Nas.
Nas’ connection runs deeper than admiration. His father, Olu Dara, played jazz during Davis’ time, giving him firsthand insight into the culture that shaped the Kind of Blue pioneer.
Beyond that personal link, Nas also acknowledges the powerful influence jazz—and Davis in particular—has had on hip-hop.
Because of that, he felt like the perfect choice—especially as one of rap’s all-time greats. While the book hasn’t officially dropped yet, Rolling Stone managed to preview Nas’ foreword.
In it, he writes, “Miles and hip-hop share the same blood, sweat, and tears. The same struggles and triumphs. Hip-hop is heavily influenced by jazz music. It’s our roots. So many of our biggest songs have jazz samples in them.”
He continues, “Hip-hop and Miles are both innovative and extremely bold. Learning about his personal life was a whole different experience. His journey reflected the times and different eras he lived through. He faced discrimination head-on. He got bloody and received scars, but he kicked his elegant shoes through racism like it was trash on the streets.”
This special edition of Miles: The Autobiography is set to arrive on May 21, 2026.
