Classic Album Reflection: Pieces of a Man

 

 Once in a while, we come across art that encapsulates a moment in history. These works have the power to seemingly transport us to the period in which they were created, imparting the perspective of a time that we've never experienced. This is how I felt when I first heard Gil-Scott Heron's debut studio album, Pieces of a Man. Released in 1971, the album is a genre-bending 11-track journey containing elements of soul, blues, jazz, funk, and spoken word. Through each song, Scott-Heron melodically grapples with topics ranging from social inequalities to the personal struggles of addiction. The most widely known track on the album is the opening "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised", which has been immortalized for its poetic call to action. Scott-Heron has expressed that the song is about the change that you must make in your mind before you can change the way that you live. At the conclusion of this track, we transition into the serene “Save the Children”, one of my favorite songs on the album. The lyrics serve as a captivating plea to make the world a better place for the youth that follow in our footsteps. Scott-Heron sings “right now they seem to play such a small part of the things that they’ll soon be right at the heart of.” I appreciate the way in which Scott-Heron conveys emotion through his vivid lyricism. This emotion helps the listener feel the gravity of issues that he grapples with through each song. On the title track, “Pieces of a Man”, we hear a narrator recount the tumultuous experience of his father being laid off. He sings “I saw him go to pieces, he was always such a good man.” In the closing track, “The Prisoner”, Scott-Heron articulates the damage caused to a family when a man is “hounded by hatred and trapped by fear.” The song seems to describe both a literal and figurative prison that has left the man feeling unseen and unheard. When we consider the context in which Pieces of a Man was released in the early 1970s, the subject matter on this album is even more compelling. This period followed the strife of the 1960s and saw a carryover of the Vietnam War, the Black power movement, and the dawning of an economic recession. This atmosphere is conveyed through tracks like “A Sign of the Ages” and “The Needle’s Eye”. On the latter, Scott-Heron sings “All the millions spent for killing, seems the whole world must be dying; all the children who go hungry, how much food we could be buying.” The song captures the sorrow of someone observing these world crises with little power to change them. While societal issues are a prominent theme on the album, Scott-Heron also provides tracks that are more introspective. Songs like “Home Is Where the Hatred Is” and “I Think I’ll Call It Morning” paint the picture of a man seeking to find solace within his environment. We also get songs like “Lady Day and John Coltrane” and “When You Are Who You Are” that are both uplifting and reassuring. The breadth of emotions and subject matter on this album certainly fits the title. Pieces of a Man showcases the complexities within an individual just trying to make it through life. Scott-Heron demonstrates the ebbs and flows of the human experience through each track in a way that allows the listener to step into the world as he sees it. On “Or Down You Fall”, Scott-Heron sings “and now you know I’m only human instead of all the things I’d like to be, the world is just a simple circle, you’ve got to keep on turning.” These lines stand out to me because they demonstrate the power in learning the “pieces” of a person’s story. Through this learning we build a deeper appreciation of that person’s humanity. People, like the world, are much more complex than we perceive them to be.  Over 50 years later, Pieces of a Man contains messages that I believe can inspire and connect with people today. 

Book Reflection: Vibrate Higher

 One of my most recent reads is the book, Vibrate Higher: A Rap Story, by Talib Kweli. If you're not familiar with Talib Kweli, he is a legendary hip-hop artist and host of the podcast, People's Party with Talib Kweli. The book is a memoir that documents Kweli's upbringing and career as an MC. The concept of "vibrating higher" is a theme that pervades throughout the book. It's all about being the best version of yourself, and recognizing the people, things, and environments that allow you to do that. In the book, Kweli traces his success back to the various people and places that allowed him to live out his career. We learn about his roots and how the New York hip-hop scene provided the training ground for him to develop his craft. He also acknowledges how failures and mistakes have played a critical role into where he is today. While reading, I appreciated the honesty and clarity with which Kweli wrote this book. He provides a great deal of social commentary on issues like gentrification, race, and politics. He talks about how he sees it as his duty to bring knowledge of these issues and the people's struggle into his music. The label of being a "socially conscious" rapper is something that he wears proudly and lives up to. Kweli writes about his experiences participating in the Ferguson protests of 2014 and meeting with President Obama to discuss mass incarceration. He does a great job of providing context and explaining these issues from every angle. Each story that Kweli tells makes you feel as if you were in the room. The book encourages you to reflect on the components of your life that help you vibrate higher. For me, I believe that is God, family, and exploration in regards to knowledge and experiences. I definitely recommend picking up a copy of Vibrate Higher, as it is a memoir that seeks to inform and inspire. Feel free to order using the link below. Thanks for reading! 

Vibrate Higher: A Rap Story: Kweli, Talib: 9780374283407: Amazon.com: Books

Book Reflection: Let Love Have the Last Word

How do you define love? It's one of those words that you can feel, but not be able to articulate. In his New York Times bestselling memoir, Let Love Have the Last Word, Common analyzes love from his perspective. He recognizes love as a powerful force that shapes the way we live. The book touches on different aspects of love including God's love, self-love, love of partners, and love of family. He defines love as a practice, something that requires time, effort, and attention. Common acknowledges that love is hard, and discusses his own shortcomings in giving love. It can be difficult to focus on love when there is so much negativity in the world. However, practicing love can serve as an antidote that can help us overcome these challenges. In some of the most impoverished places, love shines and helps people live enriched lives. As Common mentions, love requires us to be vulnerable and honest. It also asks us to listen and be patient with those we love. As humans, we crave love. It influences many of our actions and emotions, but yet we don't fully understand it. This book is powerful because it encourages us to do our own self-assessment of love in our lives. While reading, I often thought about how love has operated in my life. I realized that the people I love are those that have made the greatest impression on my life. They have invested love into me, and I can only hope that I have done the same for them. Love is strengthened when it is reciprocated. Though it may not solve all of our problems, leading with love is the way to ensure that we are on track for progress and healing. Let Love Have the Last Word is also a good read for artists, as it provides insight into Common's creative process. He describes creativity as a way to experience love through divine expression. Art requires us to be vulnerable and be comfortable exposing ourselves to the world. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It provides a great conversation about love in its many forms. It's not too often that you get to go inside of the mind of one of your favorite artists. If you want to check out Let Love Have the Last Word, feel free to order or preview using the link below. Thanks for reading!

Hive Mind Review!

On July 20, 2018, The Internet released their fourth studio album titled, Hive Mind. The album comes three years since the release of the group's last album, Ego Death. Hive Mind consists of thirteen tracks and provides listeners with an artful collection of songs on love. With soulful instrumentals, graced over by the voice of lead vocalist, Syd, the album makes for a nice laid-back project to vibe to. As a cohesive unit, the group delivers a soothing yet energizing flavor with their style of R&B. I imagine that the project would make the perfect soundtrack for a movie about a millennial relationship. The album flows together really well and I almost couldn't tell when a song transitioned into the next. Be sure to check out Hive Mind and more work from The Internet. My favorite tracks on the album are "La Di Da" and "It Gets Better (With Time)". Thanks for reading!

Rolling Papers 2 Review!

On July 13, 2018, Wiz Khalifa released his sixth studio album titled, Rolling Papers 2. It comes as a sequel to Wiz's Rolling Papers, released in 2011. The album consists of 25 tracks, with features from Jimmy Wopo, Hardo, THEMXXINLIGHT, Curren$y, Snoop Dogg, Gucci Mane, Swae Lee, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Chevy Woods, Darrius Willrich, Lil Skies, Problem, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and Ty Dolla $ign. Listening to the album, I found it to be dynamic throughout. Wiz showcases a variety of styles from laid-back tracks like "Late Night Messages" to more upbeat songs like "Goin Hard". I appreciate the versatility of Wiz's subject matter. His lyrics do a nice job of balancing motivation and partying, which takes me back to his 2012 hit, "Work Hard, Play Hard". With this project, Wiz gives fans numerous bangers for every occasion. There are tracks you can add to your workout playlist or just relax to. Though Wiz has been well-known in the game for awhile, he still makes sure to mention where he came from in tracks like "420 Freestyle" and "B OK". Rolling Papers 2 is definitely one of my favorite projects released this summer. I'll be returning to it for time to come. My favorite tracks are "Hopeless Romantic" and "Real Rich".

Creative Quest Review!

My most recent read is Creative Quest by Questlove. The book was released on April 24, 2018 and is the fourth book by the author. As a four-time Grammy Award-winning musician, disc jockey, culinary entrepreneur, and more, Questlove offers readers an eye-opening perspective on creativity. He explores how we can identify the creative genius within ourselves and make the greatest use of that energy. The definition of creativity is broad enough that this book will connect with people from all walks of life. One of things I learned from this book is that we all apply creativity in some form during our daily lives. Questlove talks about finding that creative spark, dealing with criticism, the science of collaboration, and more in this thought-provoking book. Creative Quest introduces its readers to an array of concepts through stories from the music industry, anecdotes from renowned creative professionals, and enlightening metaphorical viewpoints. This book is especially valuable for young professionals looking to make their mark on the world. I suggest you keep a notebook as you read, to jot down some of the many jewels dropped throughout. Order your copy of Creative Quest using the link below!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07192GT9Z/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Illmatic Turns 24!

On April 19, 1994, Nas released his masterful debut album, Illmatic. The timeless ten-track project is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all-time. With hits like "N.Y. State of Mind" to "One Love", Illmatic certainly stakes its claim as a monumental project within the Hip-Hop community. Even outside of music, Illmatic has been praised in academia. The album was selected in Harvard's library as part of the institution's Hip-Hop archive. Likewise, Harvard has named a fellowship in honor of Nas. This rich body of work has shown how we can begin to view Hip-Hop intellectually. With vivid storytelling and poetic delivery, Nas invites listeners into his life as a youth in Queensbridge. Each time I listen to Illmatic, I can close my eyes and picture myself riding through New York. The album's complex subject matter and diction speaks to the wisdom and maturity that Nas possessed at this early stage of his career. Considering the album was released when he was twenty, Nas established himself as a truly unique artist with this debut project. Features include Az, Olu Dara, and Q-Tip. The production of the album gives you that early '90s east-coast vibe. Production credits include DJ Premier, Large Professor, Pete Rock, Q-Tip, L.E.S., and Nas himself. Illmatic in my view, stands as more than music. It's an experience that pulls you in, gives you knowledge, and allows you to appreciate the complexity of true Hip-Hop. I often listen to the album while writing papers, because Nas will spit out sophisticated words that I can use in my next sentence. If you call yourself a fan of Hip-Hop without having listened to this album, I have to say you've played yourself. On this day, tune in and listen to Nas as he graces the mic with "mechanical movement" on the masterpiece of an album that is, Illmatic. My favorite tracks are "The World Is Yours" and "Halftime". Thanks for reading!

Wasted Talent Review!

On April 13th, Jim Jones released his seventh studio album, Wasted Talent. It comes seven years since the release of his last album, Capo, which was released in 2011. Wasted Talent consists of eighteen tracks, which include three listed as bonuses. The project features Jadakiss, Trav, Mozzy, YFN Lucci, Alexza, Eric Billinger, Ball Greezy, 5am, Yo Gotti, Axel Leon, Cam'ron, Lil Durk, and Juelz Santana. With this one, Jim Jones asserts a powerful return to the game. His lyrics reflect the contemplation and wisdom that comes from a period of hiatus. Throughout the project, he touches on lessons learned from his past, realities of fame and fortune, as well as his thoughts on current social issues. He vividly describes his days in the projects and how he made it out. In tracks like "Head Off", he talks about serving as an inspiration for others to know that they can make it out as well. I appreciate the way he is able to blend past experiences with current topics throughout the project. He can quickly transition from being on the block to driving a Ferrari. With his extensive career, it's interesting to hear his perspective on the current state of Hip-Hop. You can sense the personal growth in his music, while telling that he isn't too far removed from the New York streets that built him. This project shows you what happens when a veteran takes his time to produce a quality product. It's always refreshing to hear solid bars, and this project certainly gives you that. My favorite tracks are "Gotta Play the Game" and "Epitome". Thanks for reading!

Dex Meets Dexter Review!

On April 6th, Famous Dex released his debut album titled, Dex Meets Dexter. The album consists of fourteen tracks, with features from Drax Project, Wiz Khalifa, A$AP Rocky, and Diplo. Throughout the project, Dex offers his distinct rhythmic flow over a variety of dynamic beats. His lyrics seem to take a carefree approach and provide a rock star aesthetic. He showcases his range on this album, going from laid-back tracks like "PROVE IT" to more hype songs like "CHUMP". The project is filled with energy and makes for good music to turn up to. Famous Dex definitely represents the younger generation of rap. As seen throughout this project, his music is focused on living for the moment and enjoying the material wealth that comes with stacking money. Reading the track list, I was familiar with two songs, "JAPAN" and "PICK IT UP" featuring A$AP Rocky. It's a fun project to listen to and you'll find it hard not to dance along with its rich production. My favorite tracks on the album are "LIGHT" and "TAKE HER". Thanks for reading!

Invasion of Privacy Review!

On April 6th, Cardi B released her debut studio album titled, Invasion of Privacy. The album consists of thirteen tracks with features from 21 Savage, Bad Bunny, Chance the Rapper, J Balvin, Kehlani, Migos, SZA, and YG. The album has performed well commercially, with the milestone of being certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on the first day of its release. Cardi B's lyrics are powerful in how they vividly express her personality. She approaches music with honesty, which makes her art both entertaining and relatable. Throughout the project, you'll hear her frequently reference life before the fame in tracks like "Money Bag". When you listen to some of her songs, you almost feel as if you've gotten to know her. Her lyrics are a window that give you a clear perspective of her life. For instance, in the song "Be Careful", she expresses her struggle dealing with infidelity in her relationship by painting an honest conversation between her and her partner. The album is also packed with club bangers, including tracks like "She Bad" and the hit singles, "Bartier Cardi" and "Bodak Yellow". The production of the album is artfully composed with several tracks that you can dance or nod your head to. It's one of the most talked about projects of the year, so definitely check it out. I enjoyed listening to this project and I look forward to seeing where Cardi goes from here. My favorite track on the album is "Best Life". Thanks for reading!

Book Review: Black Privilege

My latest read is Charlamagne Tha God's book, Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It. I must start by advising viewer discretion for anyone that chooses to purchase this book. It was published in 2017, and follows the story of Charlamagne's life. If you're unfamiliar with Charlamagne, he's a prominent media figure whose work can be found on his radio show The Breakfast Club, his podcast Brilliant Idiots, his television show Uncommon Sense, and more. Black Privilege is an autobiographical account of his eventful story. He describes his upbringing, his rocky adolescent years, and his ascent in the media industry. He walks you through his school expulsions, jail experiences, multiple job terminations, and much more. My favorite aspect of this book is the self-help element within it. Through all his mistakes and shortcomings, Charlamagne is able to draw valuable lessons. Despite some crude stories and details, he drops some serious knowledge in this book. His personality is certainly expressed through the pages, with his brutal honesty and unrestrained sense of humor. Never have I read a book that made me laugh out loud as much as this one. It really captivates you within his experiences, and by the end you'll feel that you know him personally. He touches on some serious topics like race, homophobia, and gender norms. Some of his advice includes living your truth, viewing losses as lessons, and accessing your personal privilege. If you're of age, and you can handle some suggestive language, I definitely recommend this book. It's motivational, it's humorous, and it's insightful. Read and learn how a young boy from a trailer in Moncks Corner, South Carolina became a renowned media personality.

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Privilege-Opportunity-Comes-Create/dp/1501145304

Pressure Review!

On December 15th, Jeezy released his eighth studio album titled, Pressure. The project consists of thirteen tracks, with features from J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Kodak Black, Payroll Giovanni, Rick Ross, Sean Combs, Tee Grizzley, Tory Lanez, Trey Songz, Wizkid, YG, and 2 Chainz. Listening to the album, you still get those motivational lyrics and knocking beats prevalent in Jeezy's music. However, you can tell that his subject matter has evolved. He seems to be moving on from music about being in the trap, and on to enjoying the fruits of his labor. On tracks like "Bottles Up", he's celebrating his success and showcasing "trap excellence". As he stated in his interview with The Breakfast Club, this album reflects his current lifestyle. With a career as extensive as Jeezy's, it's only natural to see maturity over the years. He's been around the game for awhile, and he possesses a lot of wisdom that he passes on through his music, as well as off-the-mic moves. I've always respected his longevity and consistency. Pressure gives you the perspective of one that has made the most of their struggle, and built success from the bottom-up. His growth is showcased in tracks like "In A Major Way", where he talks about being a multi-millionaire from the hood. You have to appreciate a successful person that hasn't forgotten their roots. I'm not the most hardcore Jeezy fan, but I enjoyed listening to this album. Jeezy stays true to his style, and is complemented by some special guest verses. The production is spectacular, and definitely fitting for a Jeezy album. I recommend the tracks "This Is It", "Pressure", and "American Dream".

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Turns 7!

Seven years ago, Kanye West released his fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. The album consists of thirteen tracks, with features from Bon Iver, CyHi the Prynce, Jay-Z, John Legend, Justin Vernon, Kid Cudi, Nicki Minaj, Pusha T, RZA, Raekwon, Rick Ross, and Swizz Beats. It stands as an important piece of Kanye's discography. During this period, Kanye was under much scrutiny for a controversial interruption during Taylor Swift's acceptance speech at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. This among other pressures, led him to undergo a self-imposed exile in Hawaii. In some cases, artists make great work during times of turmoil. It's similar to finding a diamond in the rough. I certainly consider this project to be one of those cases. It was reported that West never slept a full night at the house he rented in Hawaii. Instead, he chose to take power naps in the studio, and had rented three rooms so that songs could be crafted simultaneously. He flew in a variety of premier artists and producers to collaborate with. One of the most interesting stories I found surrounding the development of this album, was that Kanye hired two private chefs, one for hot food, and one for cold food. The album is regarded as one of the most expensive albums to make, with an estimate listed at $3 million. He really invested his all into this project. Listening to the album, it's evident that plenty of time, thought, and energy was put into the composition of this album. It's truly a work of art. Through expressing himself, Kanye allowed us to experience his mindset during this time. You can feel the emotion he puts into crafting tracks like "Blame Game" and "Lost In The World." There's a theme of dealing with pressures of the celebrity lifestyle, relationship/personal issues, as well as internal struggles. This theme resembles the pressures Kanye faced in real life during this period. Throughout his career, Kanye's work has always reflected the essence of his current lifestyle. His work is a realist perspective of his life. For this reason, it's unfair to divide his career as "old" or "new" Kanye. He's the same artist in a different space. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was a "dark" space that yielded "beautiful" music. My favorite tracks off the album are "Gorgeous" and "Runaway." Thanks for reading.

Hip-Hop as a Human

Here's a piece I wrote when I was 16, around the time when Kendrick Lamar's To Pimp A Butterfly released.

Hip Hop is like a human.
Upon creation it started out saying random words like a crying infant that struggles to communicate with you (infant stages/rappers delight era).
 Next, it grew into a child and its only goal was to have fun. It began to build relationships with a core group of people that shared its common values (childhood/Run-DMC era).
 It then grew into a teenager. At this stage it battled through a confusing period, still about being cool and having fun but yet wanting to be understood (early teenage years/ late 80s early 90s).
 Next, it developed into an older teenager and it wanted to appear hard, be heard, and struggled to find itself. It did crazy things to express the chaos within it, so it turned to crime and often gave off a negative and dark vibe. Unfortunately, this gave off a negative impression and caused some people to stay away from it and damaged relationships (late teenage years/gangsta rap era).
 After the transition it became a young adult and experienced a rejuvenation, while it still held on to some of the baggage from it's teenage years, it started to be more about fun again and was filled with new energy (young adulthood/2000/early 2010s hip hop).
Today, it has taken its past experiences and wants to change for the better. As it knows one day it won't be so strong, and has to make the most positive impact it can while it still has this energy. It plans to combine this energy with the wisdom it has picked up along the way (adulthood/ Kendrick Lamar/ J. Cole/ current state of Hip Hop).

Syre Review!

On November 17th, Jaden Smith released his debut studio album, Syre. The album consists of seventeen tracks, with features from A$AP Rocky and Raury. The title of the album refers to his name, Jaden Christopher Syre Smith. If you're familiar with Jaden Smith, you know he operates on a higher frequency than most. His elevated thinking is clearly on display within this album. With this one, Smith gives us a tour of his mind. It's expressive, it's deep, and it's artful. I feel this album will really resonate with the youth. The transition between tracks is so smooth that it was hard for me to notice when the song changed. Pay attention to his lyricism too, he drops some gems. I'm deeply impressed with this project. He exhibits flow, emotion, and that Jaden Smith philosophy. When listening, you'll experience the free range of his mind. He knows no boundaries. My favorite tracks are "Falcon" and "Breakfast." Definitely give this one a listen. Thanks for reading.


    

The Black Album Turns 14!

Fourteen years ago on November 14th, Jay-Z released his eight studio album, The Black Album. This album was considered to be a sign off project for the rapper. He was suggesting retirement, and even held a farewell concert at Madison Square Garden. In retrospect, we know this retirement was short-lived, but this theme of "fading to black" was a major concept regarding this album. One of Hip-Hop's greatest was gearing to leave the game. In the book  The 48 Laws Of Power by Robert Greene, law 16 is "use absence to increase respect and honor." Hov very well may have been using this tactic to his advantage. He's a clever individual, and I wouldn't be surprised if this was his intentions. Nonetheless, he gave us a classic album to go along with all of this. The album consists of fourteen tracks that include some of his greatest hits like "99 Problems", "Dirt Off Your Shoulder", and "Encore." We also hear the work of some legendary producers on this album. Production credits include Just Blaze, Kanye West, Timbaland, 9th Wonder, The Neptunes, Rick Rubin, and more. I consider it my second favorite Jay-Z album behind Reasonable Doubt. My favorite tracks on this album are "What More Can I Say" and "Public Service Announcement (Interlude)." You definitely have to check this album out if you haven't already. It's a certified classic. Thanks for reading!

The Incredible True Story Turns 2!

Two years ago on November 13th, Logic released his second studio album The Incredible True Story. I hope his day one fans don't scold me for this, but this is the project that really turned me onto his music. It takes you on a journey with an intriguing story line that takes place within some truly extraordinary tracks. Features include Big Lenbo, Dria, Jesse Boykins III, and Lucy Rose. I did some research on the album, and found that the underlying plot of the project is actually part of a pretty mind-blowing story inspired by filmmaker Quentin Tarantino. What stands out to me is the vibrant production in tracks like "City of Stars." It gives off that sci-fi vibe, that I feel really speaks to Logic's experimental nature in his art. The lyricism showcased on this album is also "incredible." I enjoy the skits, my favorite being the one at the end of "Fade Away." When I heard it was the anniversary of this album, I had to write about it. It's definitely one of my go-to projects. It's so hard for me to pick favorite tracks off of this album, but I'll go with "Young Jesus" and "Innermission." If you haven't already, check this one out. Thanks for reading!

NHYN Interview!

On November 12th, I had the chance to interview American born and Dubai based artist, NHYN. NHYN is an emerging artist with two solo projects, Pharaogamo and his latest, Dwaynism. His work incorporates a unique style, a transparency that allows listeners to feel the emotions that drives the music. In this interview, he gives us a detailed perspective on his life as an artist. We discuss his beginnings, his inspirations, and his visions for the future. Check out his latest work "Bounce It" and "Wait."

LAMON: I know you've mentioned this in earlier works, but for new listeners, what led you into becoming an artist?

NHYN: I would say dropping out of school. Prior to dropping out, I was making music everyday. In my room making beats, or if I was in class I'd be writing rhymes. I realized obviously I don't need to be here, maybe I need to go do something in music. So that's what led me to drop out and chase this dream. I actually had a conversation with my mentor before dropping out. I was like "yo, you think it would be a good idea to drop out of school?" (laughs). Everybody kept telling me it's a bad idea, saying I'm gonna fail, and giving me rates about the success of dropouts. I was like forget it, just going to try it out and take a risk. 

LAMON: Did moving to Dubai have any impact on your art?

NHYN: Definitely, my lifestyle has changed. I have new content to write about. It's different dealing with foreign women. Some just know you're black and from America. Driving crazy cars, or seeing crazy cars and mansions. It's like I got the lifestyle, before I got the actual money. I got used to having a driver, maids, and little small things like that. It definitely feels like I'm really rich (laughs). Living over here in Dubai gave me freedom to create without stressing. 

LAMON: Is it different looking at current events in the United States from an outside perspective?

NHYN: Yeah, people over here usually worry about their own problems. Whenever I hear something happening back in the United States, I'm just like "man, America is crazy." It's a lot going on over there, but over here there's like nothing going on. Sometimes it sounds like war is going on back home. It's different over here. They really appreciate our culture though. They listen to a lot of rap too. They mostly listen to older rap though. They haven't really caught on with the new wave of music. I feel like that's my job over here, to put them on some new music. 

LAMON: How big of a role does your team play in supporting you art?

NHYN: My team plays a pretty big role. Currently we're planning, and just trying to take it to the next level. 

LAMON: Are there any particular artists that inspire you?

NHYN: I listen to a lot of Andre 3000 and Kanye West. Of course, Kendrick Lamar. I hate listening to Kendrick Lamar, because I don't wanna sound like Kendrick but I love his music. A few of my friends also make some really dope music. My friend Lawrence, who I grew up with as a kid and we reconnected when I moved to Atlanta. Also my homie Millic who lives in Korea, and he's a really dope artist. 

LAMON: Artists do so many things nowadays, you can't really put a label on it. 

NHYN: It has to be that way. We have to do all the work. Even with business, we have to be the artists and the business owners. You have to learn to sell yourself, which is cool. It's a learning experience. I'm just glad I went to business school, even though I dropped out (laughs).

LAMON: Let's talk about the creative process. When crafting a song, do you already have a direction planned? Or is it more based on the vibe in the studio?

NHYN: Sometimes I have an idea of what I want to do before I go into the studio. When I turn on a beat, sometimes that idea can turn into something totally new. Basically, the vibe is everything. I can go in motivated to make one song, and then make another song that I end up liking more. Getting in front of the microphone, and putting on the headphones is where you really create the vibe. Also just hearing your voice. I can write a song back home, and then go into the studio and not like how it sounds at all. Hearing myself on the microphone really is what determines if I like a song or not. 

LAMON: Is there a release to be able to express yourself through art?

NHYN: Yeah, it's definitely a bit of release. A lot of frustration, but definitely release. Because once you express yourself, then you have to be bold enough to put out the music. It's like I made this song and I like it, but will they like it? You stress about that. A lot of times that's what takes me so long to put out music. I have to go through the psychological process, and be mentally ready to put it out. You have to have that mentality to put it out and say "let's see how it works." I actually had "Bounce It" for a whole year. I debated on whether I should put it out. You know what's crazy, I actually dropped "Bounce It" a month before I told anybody I put it out. I only did that to see the feedback I would get if no one knew about it. I got a lot of great feedback from it, and people were sending me messages saying they heard it. It got a good reaction, so I decided to really put it out there. 

LAMON: The thing about art is that it really gives you freedom for self-expression.

NHYN: You've gotta really go with your instincts. If I would've really went with my intuition, I probably would've let it go a long time ago. I'm learning that now, to really trust my instincts. I'm trying to push myself to get past myself. I wanna be able to release more music, and I want people to know what's going on in my life. 

LAMON: What's the meaning behind the name NHYN?

NHYN: NHYN (nine) represents the number for universal love. That's why the logo I created is a heart. It's a complex heart like a puzzle, because love is difficult. I felt like NHYN is a representation of what I'm trying to do in the industry. I'm trying to be that piece that brings everyone together. Whether it's helping a producer in the studio, or a homeless person on the street. I'm trying to be that vessel that can really relate to people, that they can say "he really cares about me and my well-being." Nine represents completeness, like being spiritually complete. That's how it feels, because I made the album Dwaynism which is talking about self-love and self-worth. I had to basically relocate to Dubai and go through that process of looking at who I am, and what I'm trying to do. NHYN represents me. 

LAMON: Are there any artists that you wish to work with?

NHYN: Andre 3000 for sure, Erykah Badu, definitely Kanye West, and Frank Ocean. These are artists that do a lot for me, I really like these people. Andre 3000 is the best rapper in my opinion, I feel like people forget about him until he drops a verse. When he drops a verse, it's a big deal. 

LAMON: As an emerging artist, how do you maintain humility as your publicity grows?

NHYN: I don't know if I'm humble at all. I'm just very introverted. I don't really think in terms of publicity growth, just individual growth. I'm not too pressed about fame, I don't really care about that. The bigger I go is just a bigger platform. I wouldn't say I'm humble, I wish I was humble. Behind closed doors I'm probably boastful. Then I'm just quiet, because I don't want to come off as boastful (laughs). 

LAMON: Are there any milestones that you plan to accomplish throughout your career?

NHYN: I want a Grammy, but only because I've been working on my speech for awhile. I've been preparing for like four years.

LAMON: Hopefully we hear it one day.

NHYN: It's definitely going to be a dope speech. I think I only get like thirty seconds anyway, so I'm trying to make the best thirty seconds ever. Kanye West has the best Grammy speech right now, so I'm trying to top him. 

LAMON: Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?

NHYN: Stay in school, don't chase your dreams (laughs). Nah, but I would say learn the business. That's the main thing if you're trying to get into music, learn the business. You might end up losing a lot of money, because no one is going to treat you better than you treat yourself. Always remember that you are a brand, and you have to treat it as such. It's a marathon, and not a quick race. If you're really into music for the long run, it's definitely a marathon. There's a lot of ups and downs, but they're all important for your journey. 

LAMON: I'm aware that you studied audio engineering, what role did that play on your development as an artist? 

NHYN: For starters, I know what quality sounds like. I know what to look for when I'm making a record, what sounds pleasing to the ear. Going to Los Angeles for audio engineering allowed me to meet other aspiring artists. It allowed me to network with them, and meet other people that wanted to help out. That's what led me to moving to Dubai. Studying audio engineering in LA really catapulted my career. 

LAMON: What impact do you plan to make with your career? 

NHYN: Spreading love and teaching people. I also want to add to the culture, I feel like I have a lot to bring. I've been through a lot in these 25 years, and I feel like I have wisdom. I'm not where I want to be yet, but I just have to be patient. You have to take risks for that big reward.  

Thanks for reading!

Boomerang Review!

On November 10th, artist, Jidenna released an EP titled Boomerang. The project includes six tracks, with features from Quavo, Wale, Tiwa Savage, Maleek Berry, Sarkodie, Burna Boy, and Dot Cromwell. It is his first project since his debut studio album The Chief. The EP includes rhythmic songs, like title track "Boomerang" and "Spy Candy." He also includes the remixes of his hits "Bambi" and "Little Bit More", with tracks titled "Bambi Too" and "Little Bit More (Remix)." I've always appreciated the versatility of his art. He has the ability to rhyme smoothly over tracks, and the ability to create vibrant party records. He approaches music with a unique style of sophistication. Not too many artists are rapping about rocking suits. I'd characterize him as a smooth criminal. Calm and collected on the surface, but he's still a savage under the radar. You'll notice this too, if you take a look at his lyrics. My favorite on this project is the opening track "Decibels", the production and cultured lyrics makes for a nice song to vibe too. Overall, it's a fun project to listen (and dance) to. Check it out. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life!

Without Warning Review!

On Halloween, artists Offset, 21 Savage, and Metro Boomin dropped a surprise collaborative project titled Without Warning. It consists of ten tracks, with guest appearances from Quavo and Travis Scott. It's rare that such industry giants would drop a project "without warning." It caught me off guard, but it was a reflex for me to throw my headphones on when I received word of the project. It's definitely a treat for 21 Savage fans, coming off the success of the well-received Issa Album. Likewise for Offset fans, who are anticipating the Culture 2 album from the rapper's group, Migos. It's an interesting combination of artists, but I'm impressed with how well 21 Savage and Offset are able to blend on the project. 21 Savage has space for his ferocious lyrical style, while Offset is able to showcase his renowned flow over mastermind production by Metro Boomin. As with anything by 21 Savage, you'll hear some relentless bars that show no concern for human life, as evident in the track "My Choppa Hate N-----." The project is filled with bangers, my favorites being the rough "Rap Saved Me" and the smooth "Ric Flair Drip." If you want to turn up, or even if you just want to kick back and vibe to some dope tracks, I think you should give this album a listen. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life!