The hardcore vets were pleased to find that they had a good working relationship with 50, despite some bad blood. (On last year's "Piggy Bank," 50 told Jadakiss, "I'll do your little ass like Jay did Mobb Deep" -- a reference to Jay-Z's famously brutal dis on "Takeover.") "It was just like being around our homeys," says Havoc. "He made us feel so comfortable, he just pulled us right in." Havoc produced most of the disc, including the Knight Rider-sampling track "Night Riders."
For the Dr. Dre-produced "Nightmares," 50 sings a hook he conceived after being awoken in the middle of the night on a trip to Africa, and Prodigy adds verses about a recurring dream. "It's about protecting myself from being shot," he says. "But when I go to use the gun, I can't pull the trigger."
The duo -- partners since high school and longtime roommates -- says 50 was an inspiration. "He's like a robot in the studio," says Prodigy. "We competin' with the best
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It's been one year since Hurricane Katrina devastated the gulf coast region and forced people to part from their homes, businesses, schools, and most essentially, families and friends. Being that New Orleans--the most affected of all the regions--is home to several notable rappers like Lil' Wayne, Baby aka Birdman, Juvenile, and B.G., it was natural for some of them to respond through songs. However, the Katrina debacle touched everyone everywhere, not just New Orleans and Louisiana natives. In fact, the most remarkable hip-hop tribute to Katrina comes from New York's No. 1 draft pick Papoose, whose "Mother Nature" leads our list of Katrina songs. OutKast's "Hollywood Divorce"--which is more of a reference than a tribute to Katrina--rounds off our Top 5. Check out the list and audio links below: 
