Talib Kweli and DJ Jazzy Jeff Remix Bob James’ “Nautilus” at Tiny Desk Concert

Legendary jazz pianist Bob James surprised fans during his Tiny Desk Concert by bringing out rap icons Talib Kweli and DJ Jazzy Jeff for a special remix of his classic 1974 song “Nautilus.” The 21-minute medley, which premiered on Monday, showcased the trio giving one of Hip Hop’s most famous samples a fresh makeover.

Accompanied by a live band, the performance featured scratches from DJ Jazzy Jeff and thought-provoking rhymes from Talib Kweli, adding a new dimension to James’ timeless track. The collaboration was a unique opportunity for James to take control of his music in a way he hadn’t before, after years of hearing his songs sampled in the Hip Hop world.

During the concert, James shared his initial skepticism about his music being sampled, but ultimately came to appreciate the creativity and artistry that artists like Talib Kweli and DJ Jazzy Jeff brought to his work. The unexpected collaboration was a hit with fans, who were treated to a one-of-a-kind performance that bridged the worlds of jazz and Hip Hop.

“Nautilus” has a long history of being sampled by some of the biggest names in Hip Hop, making it a fitting choice for this unique collaboration. Fans of both jazz and rap can appreciate the innovative remix that Talib Kweli, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Bob James brought to the Tiny Desk Concert stage.