The surprise cooperation between erstwhile rivals JAY-Z and Nas on DJ Khaled’s “Sorry Not Sorry” in April was a watershed moment in hip-hop history. DJ Khaled had long wanted to collaborate, but it wasn’t until a star-studded dinner in Los Angeles that he found the guts to make it happen.

In a recent interview with People, DJ Khaled described how a meal with some of the most renowned individuals in hip-hop and R&B inspired his ambitious initiative. He noted that celebrities such as Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, Nas, JAY-Z, and Puff Daddy attended the dinner at Tao in Los Angeles. What struck him the most was the friendliness and great energy in the room, with JAY-Z and Nas conversing in genuine and cheerful tones.

For DJ Khaled, witnessing this unity was a watershed moment. He had always wanted to do a record with both JAY-Z and Nas, but it took him four to five years to get the confidence to ask. However, witnessing the love and connection between these giants at the meal inspired him to take that risk.

When he finally approached JAY-Z and Nas about collaborating, they were immediately on board and eager to start on the project. The resulting song, “Sorry Not Sorry,” is more than just a hip-hop duet; it’s a motivating and inspiring anthem. In 2021, two of hip-hop history’s finest MCs will use their lyrical prowess to offer messages of motivation, inspiration, and reflection on their personal journey.

DJ Khaled views this partnership as significant and inspirational. It serves as a reminder of these leaders’ humble origins while also demonstrating the heights they have risen to in their careers. “Sorry Not Sorry” featuring James Fauntleroy peaked at No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 list, and it marked JAY-Z and Nas’ first collaboration since “BBC” on Magna Carta Holy Grail in 2013.

Their prior collaborations include “I Do It for Hip Hop,” “Success,” and “Black Republican.” “Sorry Not Sorry” is a tribute to the enduring legacy of these hip-hop superstars and their ability to inspire and uplift via their music.