Despite receiving a major backlash for snatching the Grammy Award for Best New Artist from Drake and Justin Bieber's powerful clutches this past Sunday, Jazz bassist Esperanza Spalding has gained a major ally in the ranks of hip-hop's elite: Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest. The legendary producer/rapper has come to the unexpected winner's defense following the Grammys, revealing that not only is he a fan, he's a collaborator.

"I happen 2 b producing esperanza's next Lp," Tip tweeted. "She's a sweet talented woman wish the haters wld be more careful w/ comments."

Tip is no stranger to the genre; A Tribe Called Quest, who once penned an ode to Spalding's genre in 'Jazz (We've Got),' crafted their sound over jazzy samples by Ramsey Lewis, Cannonball Adderley, Roy Ayers and many more. Tip has also reportedly been cast to play Miles Davis in a forthcoming play about the jazz great, penned by filmmaker Nelson George.

Meanwhile, Esperanza Spalding, who is the first jazz artist to take home Best New Artist in the Grammy Awards' 53-year-history, is currently embarking on a world tour with dates across the U.S., Europe and Africa.

Her sophomore release, tentatively titled 'Radio Music Society,' is scheduled for a late 2011 release.

Watch Esperanza Spalding Perform

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