ESPN
.

Nas and Gary Clark Jr. have announced that they will team up to create a soundtrack for ESPN’s coverage of the 2012 NFL Draft. The pair will re-imagine Clark’s track “Bright Lights” with new verses from Nas that “embody the vibe of the athlete.” Two Nas tracks, “The Don” and “Train,” will also be used in the campaign.
.

ESPN music director Kevin Wilson said, “The NFL Draft is set in New York in primetime, so we were looking at music that is central to that theme, and both Nas, who is from New York, and Gary Clark Jr. have that feel. “When we heard the ‘The Don’ and ‘Train’ and proposed the idea of custom lyrics from Nas, we knew those songs were perfect for the Draft. Both ‘The Don’ and ‘Bright Lights’ are about New York City and there’s a great line in Gary’s song: ‘You gonna know my name by the end of the night.’ That is the essence of the draft. We felt this could be a great collaboration, especially combining artists from different musical styles. Both parties were open to the concept and the music is going to add even more sizzle to our coverage of the event.”
.

Nas said, “I know this from experience: every rookie has the chance to become a Hall of Famer. It’s why we never miss a game, even a play. Props to the NFL and ESPN for keeping us hooked on professional football all year round. As a fan, I’m happy to be part of it.” Clark added: “I have mad respect for Nas and the things he’s put out there over the years. I really enjoyed working on this project with ESPN and look forward to seeing the whole thing come together.”
.

Check out a promo segment using “Bright Light” below:
.

.

And watch Clark Jr.’s music video for the track:
.

Gary Clark Jr – Bright Lights

Gary Clark Jr | Myspace Video
.