K'Naan Waiting is a Drug

Prior to blowing up in 2010 for his World Cup anthem "Waving Flag," K'Naan was a relatively unknown Somali immigrant hip-hopper, known for his generally positive vibe and devotion to social justice issues. It wasn't until "Waving Flag" and a couple other tracks from "Troubador" that he showed his true ability to rap AND sing, something very few rappers can do well.

In a little over a week he will release his first full-length album since "Troubador" and it seems this one (entitled "Country, God, or the Girl") will further expand on his vocal strengths in addition to his rhymes. On "Waiting is a Drug," the first single from the new album, his full spectrum of skills are certainly on display. You have the traditional philosophical themes, some fast verses, a cute chorus and even some (BONUS) whistling!

According to interviews, K'Naan will once again return to his Somali roots with the new album. One song is actually the story of how as a small child he picked up a grenade on the playground and accidentally detonated it in his classroom -- how's that for some perspective?

I for one am really looking forward to K'Naan continuing to use beautiful music as a vehicle for raising awareness about the issues plaguing his home continent. Country, God or the Girl drops on May 1 and features collabos with heavy hitters like Nelly Furtado, Nas, Bono and Keith Richards -- be sure to check it out!