UPDATED 11/16/18 12:15 p.m. ET: Meek Mill has unveiled the cover art and title for his upcoming project, CHAMPIONSHIPS.
See original story published on 11/14/18 below.
Just as fans suspected, Meek Mill's fifth studio album will arrive this month.
The Philadelphia rapper confirmed suspicions during a recent Vogue interview, in which he spoke the project's themes and topics like criminal justice reform.Â
"I've been writing myself since I was probably what, eight years old," he said about the release. "I've been doing this a long time, so it's always pressure to be better."
Vogue shared A Night With Meek Mill, a nearly four-minute video that provides a glimpse into Meek's recording session before taking the stage at the 2018 Tidal X Benefit Concert. Meek discusses his ongoing legal battle and using his platform to create change. He also previews his upcoming collaborative record with Cardi B (40-second mark).
The project, which arrives Nov. 30, will serve as the follow-up to 2017's Wins & Losses, and marks his first full-length project since he was released from prison. It was a little over a year ago when Meek received a two- to four-year prison sentence for violating his parole, which stemmed from decades-old drugs- and weapons-related charges. The sentencing drew sharp criticism, with many calling the ruling "unjust" and "heavy-handed."Â
Meek left prison back in April, after spending nearly five months behind bars. His release occurred as his legal team raised concerns over the credibility of his arresting officer as well as Judge Genece Brinkley, who is presiding over Meek's case.
The Dreamchasers rapper has since become one of the leading figures in the fight for criminal justice reform, and told Vogue he began studying law during his stint behind bars.
"None of it makes sense, and itâs like, who came up with this shit?" he said.
The interview also touched on Kanye West, who has recently received backlash for his political views, like supporting Donald Trump and stating the country should abolish the 13th Amendment, which outlawed slavery.
"I donât represent what Kanye is talking about," he insisted. "I represent people on the inside, because I am one of the people on the inside [...] I see Kanye said something about the 13th Amendment, but, you know, they say if you go to prison, you're allowed to be basically treated as a slave. I was actually shackled from ankle to wrist."
You can read the full interview here.Â
