Rapper/spoken word artist NATTY BOI ZOE is ready to open up his world with album, ‘I Am Who I Am 2’, out now across various music platforms.
The New Yorker tells of his trials and tribulations of being a black man in today’s world, finding his place as an underground rapper and entrepreneur, the betrayal he has experience from co-called close friends and the painful loss of a close friend and his mother.
The 14 track project includes previously released track, ‘Do Y’all’ which features fellow rapper and long-time collaborator, Dice Cannon. The 90’s inspired track was once named the blog’s Song of the Week over on Instagram back in April.
‘I Am Who I Am’ is now available across various music platforms. Why not check it out below…
Get ready for a savory and sinister treat as DUTCH REBELLE serves up her newest release, “Cheesecake.”
In this spooky new visual, Dutch crashes the party with unapologetic style, encouraging women to embrace their dark side and confidently have their cake — and eat it too. The video for “Cheesecake” arrives on the heels of her recent release, “Namaste,” continuing Dutch’s streak of powerful, narrative-driven visuals shot by Sin City Creatives. Produced by Jon Glass and Melks, “Cheesecake” brings Dutch’s signature blend of gritty lyrics and rebellious spirit to the forefront, delivering a record that is as eerie and mysterious as it is deliciously satisfying.
Stay tuned for the audio drop on 11/7 on all platforms. For now, check out the video below…
As they continue to tease towards their joint project, frequent collaborators Tony Bones The Producer and Jackson B join forces with rising British/Nigerian wordsmith, AKS, to release the nostalgia infused joint single ‘Whatever It Is’ – a track that blends the soulful essence of 90s hip-hop with a modern-day edge.
Leading with its infectious boom-bap rhythms, live saxophone elements, and thought-provoking lyrics, the new single is a nod to golden-era Hip-Hop, reminiscent of icons like De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest – melding nostalgia with innovation in a way that speaks to both the old school and the new generation of listeners.
Tony Bones The Producer, fast gaining a reputation for his ability to craft timeless, soul-infused beats, lays the foundation of the track. Drawing inspiration from the jazz, funk, and boom-bap that defined the 90s hip-hop sound, Tony’s production exudes warmth and groove, paying homage to the roots of the genre while maintaining a contemporary edge.
What sets ‘Whatever It Is’ apart is the live instrumentation provided by Jackson B, a multi-instrumentalist and saxophonist. His smooth saxophone lines and melancholy keys breathe life into the track, adding an organic, jazz-inspired texture that elevates the song to new heights. Jackson B’s improvisational style is a nod to jazz legends, effortlessly blending with the hip-hop production to create a unique listening experience.
Playing front-man for this effort is wordsmith AKS, a critically acclaimed UK based rapper whose lyrical finesse and effortless flow perfectly complement the classic feel of the beat. Known for his introspective and motivational rhymes, AKS delivers verses that reflect themes of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. His bars speak to the listener’s soul, encouraging them to trust in their journey and embrace their individuality. A testament compounded by the artistry evidently on display here as he finds a way to merge the heavy with the cheerful whilst getting you singing along.
Together, the trio have crafted a vibrant, feel-good song that evokes something more, ‘Whatever It Is’….it’s a sonic journey that reflects on the past while embracing the future. Tony Bones’ production, combined with Jackson B’s instrumentation and AKS’s introspective lyrics, results in a track that is as much a nod to the past as it is a statement of intention for the enduring legacy of Hip-Hop. This collaboration is a reminder that the genre’s heart and soul are still thriving, with timeless themes that continue to resonate with both long-time fans and new generations alike.
‘Whatever it Is’ is available today (24th October 2024 ) for streaming/download on major digital platforms and offers a brilliant insight into Jackson B x Tony Bones The Producer’s forthcoming joint album. As a true collaboration the record will also feature on AKS’ forthcoming “Departures & Arrivals: As Plane as Day” project as he closes out his “Modes of Transport” series.
Delving deep into the intricate emotions of love and secrecy, ‘They Can’t Know’ is the powerful single that promises to leave listeners captivated. Crafted by the collaborative genius of The UnKNoWN PRoDuCeR and SuPReMe KiiNg, this song takes the audience on a melodic journey into the hearts and minds of those in search of passionate and elusive love.
This remarkable musical fusion between The UnKNoWN PRoDuCeR and SuPReMe KiiNg has resulted in a symphony of beats that transcends genres. Drawing from his rich background as Queen Latifah’s ex-dancer, The UnKNoWN PRoDuCeR, also known as Kreata, showcases his multi-genre prowess with artful precision. Meanwhile, SuPReMe KiiNg, celebrated as one of the East Coast’s most prolific souls, brings lyrical brilliance and raw authenticity to the table.
The inception of ‘They Can’t Know’ was a harmonious blend of patience and opportunity. The UnKNoWN PRoDuCeR waited for the perfect moment to collaborate with SuPReMe KiiNg, who was drawn to the producer’s dexterous beats and undeniable talent. The result is a seamless synergy between Urban Pop and Symphony Hall Orchestra, creating a tapestry of love, longing, and nostalgia.
Mastered remotely by the esteemed Fabio Maiorano in Spain, whose impressive portfolio includes collaborations with renowned artists, ‘They Can’t Know’ delivers a sonically rich and emotionally resonant experience. The song was produced and mixed at FYSPiStuDio in the US Virgin Islands, under the masterful guidance of Kreata, aka The UnKNoWN PRoDuCeR.
‘They Can’t Know’ is not just a song; it’s an invitation to embrace the complexities of love across different stages of life. As the lyrics intertwine dreams, imagination, and reality, the track becomes a canvas for personal narratives and shared experiences.
To experience the magic of “They Can’t Know” and SuPReMe KiiNg’s other mesmerizing creations, tap in here.
For a taste of SuPReMe KiiNg’s electrifying live performances, visit the YouTube page.
MeRCY has always released music that is backed by a theme, purpose or some type of message. His latest album comes in the form of a collaborative effort with producer FVNTVNV titled ‘Ink Blots’, and just like its predecessors, it too carries a purpose. So what’s that theme or purpose behind the album? Well, in his own words, MeRCY says that ‘Ink Blots’ is “an attempt to digitally induce musical psychology by convincing hip-hop fans to care about music with substance again”.
The South Florida lyricist began his mission with the lead single ‘Psycho Michael’ delivering compelling bars over the funky canvas like “life been a gamble checking out my parlays/you can go and party/that’s where we part ways/rather go the hard way/listen to what your heart say”. After the release of the single the scene was set for what ‘Ink Blots’ would end up sounding like for fans of both the rapper and producer.
The opening track ‘Lake Of A Thousand Tears’ stays on course with the single showing MeRCY flex his pen game with lines like “In a lake full of guppies and I was the lone shark/this is Mozart/with this beautiful music homie/and that’s where I show art”. Big Man G and Franco East also provide some help as features on the set of sounds as they lend their pen to the collaborative effort. “Can’t coach a king/ask Darvin Ham/couldn’t tell you ’bout him/I am not Shams/in the kitchen my Gordon Rams/play with the heat/they are not Bam” – Franco East on “Smokey’s Breakfast”.
The album weighs in at ten tracks and all provide a sound we aren’t used to hearing MeRCY tangle with, which even threw him for a loop when connecting with FVNTVNV. “He had a unique style of production which I gravitated towards easily. So working with him was a smooth transition” says MeRCY. Both artists had never worked with one another before so for fans to get a collaborative album only adds to the odd aura surrounding Ink Blots. “FVNTVNV informed me he’s a producer and engineer. I needed a song mixed which I sent him and then after he was sending me beats. It felt like it was meant to be, we were meant to collaborate and do some music” – MeRCY.
Along with the release of ‘Ink Blots’ comes the official video for track number six ‘Ocean Drive’. The visual was shot at the Hollywood Beach boardwalk in Fort Lauderdale, bringing some 80’s VHS vibes to accompany the official audio. It’s not Christmas yet but it does seem like it so go ahead and open your present and hit play on the new music from both Merc and FVNTVNV. Be sure to tap in with them on their social media accounts. Handles can be found below. Before you head off, why not check out ‘Ink Blots’ below…