'The Reds are part of the fabric of our DNA'
Rapper Aitch and record label boss Adex have curated a special playlist for United's match with Arsenal on Thursday (2 December, 20:15 GMT).
Adex is the man behind talent and entertainment company NQ, while Aitch is one of his biggest stars. And both are massive Reds.
The company has recently expanded into film/TV production and media, and has just opened NQ House – a 5000 sq ft creative space in Manchester.
The space contains state-of-the-art recording and content studios, a private members area and will also be opened up to young creatives from the local community.
Ahead of the Reds' huge game with the Gunners, we took the chance to talk about United and the exciting times at NQ (and you can also scroll down to see the selections that made their quality playlist)...
United’s kit campaign this season is built around the concept of the Mancunian Way. What does being Mancunian mean to you, personally and professionally?
Adex: “Personally I think that the Mancunian way is to be brave and unique. These are things that I apply in my personal and professional life – there is a sense of gritty honesty that defines each of us.”
What is happening with NQ feels similar to what another United fan and music entrepreneur Tony Wilson was doing 30 years ago. He famously said: “This is Manchester: we do things differently here.” Is that a phrase you agree with, and how do you do things differently compared to, say, London?
Aitch: “It is 100 per cent something I agree with. It is flattering to be compared to such a historical part of Manchester music royalty. Everyday we aim to push the boundaries in our own unique way, separating ourselves from our London counterparts.”
Are there any particular members of the United squad you’re friends with, or hang out with and chat to?
Both: “We are quite close to Scotty, Lingz and Rashy. Also some of the youth team players like D'mani Mellor.”
How did you two meet and start working together?
Both: “We met each other at open mic gigs all over Manchester and we became friends over our shared passion for music and the scene here.”
Tell us a bit about your love for United: when did you first start supporting the Reds?
Both: “The Reds have been a fabric of our DNA from the earliest memory of football, the winning mentality we developed under SAF was mesmerising. There was only one team to support.”
First trip to Old Trafford?
Adex: “United v Portsmouth in the 2007/08 season. Ronaldo scored two that day – what a beautiful memory.”
Who is the all-time greatest United player, in your opinion?
Adex: “Very hard to say but for me I want to give that title to Wayne Rooney. I feel like for what he has achieved, becoming United’s all-time top goalscorer after coming in as an 18-year-old from Everton cannot be underplayed. A true legend that will go down in football history as one of the best.”
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What are your thoughts on Ralf Rangnick joining the club?
Aitch: “It’s an interesting time for the club. We are in a crucial point in our post-Ferguson era. Ralf comes in with a clear identity and reputation for building not just teams but clubs. That's something that excites me very much.”
Talk us through how it will feel to hear your playlist selections booming out at Old Trafford…
Both: “It’s going to be a moment we’ll be looking forward to it with great anticipation. Hopefully our selection will play a part in leading us to victory.”
What’s it like working and collaborating with United? As a fan, does that always give you a buzz?
Both: “Being a Manchester United fan and having the opportunity to work with the club in any capacity is a dream come true. Long may it continue!”
If United get to a cup final this season, will you be pushing to do an official United track?
Aitch: “Let’s get there first – then we can talk!”
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AITCH AND ADEX'S PLAYLIST
1. Aitch - Safe To Say
2. Temz ft Kasst x AJFromThe8 & Mitch - Talk of the Town
3. SVMI - P.O.P (Hold It Down)
4. Kasst x AJFrmThe8 - DPD
5. Aitch - Learning Curve
6. Lady Ice - First
7. Tunde - Crash Bandicoot
8. Aystar ft Giggs - Stepped In
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