Welcome to Rap Weekly 92: Free Tigray. Every Monday, we’ll take you into the world of rap and summarise the most exciting news, announcements and can’t-miss stories. Find out everything you need to know in one place. We only write about the best, so you get the best rap delicacies on a golden platter. Sideshow has released a rap odyssey about a villain born of oppression seeking freedom. Free Tigray. Nike presents the KD 17 Producer Pack, three colorways of shoes from The Alchemist, Metro Boomin, and Bink!. The music highlight of the year is here, Anderson .Paak & Knxwledge release their second collaborative album as the beloved duo NxWorries. All this and much more in Rap Weekly.
NEWS OF THE WEEK
The biggest T, I love Tigray more than me
Every new project that comes out under the auspices of 10k.global is a big event for us. MIKE, Jadasea, and Sideshow are part of this unique artistic group. The first two mentioned have already released albums this year, and Sideshow joined them last week. Originally from Tigray, one of the regional states in Ethiopia, the artist released excellent projects 2MM DON’T JUST STAND THERE! and JAM (w/ Alexander Spit) last year. His latest album, F.U.N. T.O.Y., confirms his status as one of the most unique and best rappers working today.
Sideshow creates modern rap but adds a certain sauce to all aspects of it. He chooses the best trap beats and always surprises you with his lyrics. His greatest weapon, however, is the atmosphere and emotion he can translate into his music. F.U.N. T.O.Y. is a record that breathes pain. The very opening track starts with the words “Young people are not gonna make it into heaven, man,” and that’s the spirit of the whole record. Sideshow writes openly about the darkness that has followed him throughout his life or about drugs. Even though the music is dope and every minute of the record will keep you entertained, prepare to get chills at times. “Ask my mother and my father; thеy gon’ tell you I’m retarded.”
Sideshow doesn’t just write introspectively; on the track RENEE (MAY DAY), for example, he raps about gentrification. Moreover, his music makes you feel the spirit of his home state and the pain of an entire nation caused by the Tigray War and its aftermath, which persists to this day. Ethiopian forces and allied forces committed crimes against humanity and genocide against the Tigrayans as an ethnic group. Sideshow seeks strength in a world that is not fair and seeks to pass it on. Moments of peace on the album are found in the interludes where we hear laughter or in the rapper’s immeasurable love for his homeland. The whole album is perfectly framed by the last track, which is closed with words: “I am not depressed; I am oppressed.” Thus, Sideshow goes to the systemic issues that have made him a villain seeking freedom. “The biggest T, I love Tigray more than me.” FREE TIGRAY FREE ALL OPPRESSED PEOPLE.
NEWS
Rap Angels in the City of Angels
Evidence and Blu are artists that need no introduction. Blu became famous with 2007’s Below the Heavens (w/ Exile) and is still active today. He has released four records in the last year and is currently working on another. His upcoming album, which will revolve entirely around Los Angeles, is produced by Evidence. EV revealed that the album is really special and we have a lot to look forward to. He says he’s not into concept albums himself, but when he heard the level of skill Blu raps about LA, his jaw dropped. The artists released the single Lost Angel last week, but you won’t find it on the album. This is the fifth installment of Evidence’s Slide Film Series and follows singles with Theravada, Boldy James, Rakaa, and Fly Anakin. The album will be released in July.
Nike presents the Producer Pack, shoes from The Alchemist, Metro Boomin and Bink!
Hip-hop and fashion go hand in hand, so we occasionally write about fashion brands that can work with our favorite genre. Two years ago, Nike released three special colorways of the KD 15, the so-called producer pack. Back then, producers CardoGotWings, Boi-1da, and 9th Wonder got their models. Two years have passed, and we have a new producer pack, this time for the KD 17. This time legendary producers The Alchemist, Metro Boomin, and Bink! presented their shoe models. These pairs are not to be missed in any rap fan’s wardrobe.
Alexander Spit expands his iconic series
Producer Alexander Spit surprises once again with his masterful work as he releases the fourth installment of his acclaimed VIGNETTES series. This volume brings two new tracks that are full of melodic magic, rich vocals, and ingenious samples. These tracks feature guest appearances from the iconic duo YL and Starker, as well as the talented Like and Six Sev, who bring their own unique styles to Alexander’s production. Alexander Spit proves that he is not only a producer but also an artist who can create musical landscapes in which rappers can fully develop their craft. His ability to combine melodic elements with deep bass and complex sample layers gives his productions a unique character that immediately draws the listener in. This new installment of the VIGNETTES series is further proof of Alexander’s talent and his ability to create music that is not only technically brilliant but also emotionally rich and authentic. Rap listeners should definitely not miss this new addition to his discography.
QUICK NEWS
- A new episode of Rap Camp TV, is out, Gangrene Goes To New York For 4/20.
- Talented producer ghowste shared two hours of making beats.
- Common and Pete Rock will release their collaborative album The Auditorium Vol. 1 on July 12. Listen to the Live Session of Dreamin’.
- Watch a mini documentary about the duo ShrapKnel, where you can learn about their origins as well as their new album.
- Nicholas Craven shared on Instagram that he has three albums being mixed at once. We have a lot to look forward to.
BEST ALBUMS
Taraine – NOCTURNAL SOUL CHILDREN
Recently we wrote about the excellent BIG BROTHERS HOUSE by BA PACE. If you liked the album, you should remember one more name: Taraine. The founder of the itcouldbeworse brand was an executive producer on the record and even produced seven tracks. Last week, Taraine released his new record, NOCTURNAL SOUL CHILDREN, which is just as unorthodox and atmospheric as the first mentioned. On it, Taraine operates as a magical demon who lives in the near future and uses magic and all sorts of devices to produce his own musical worlds. Unfortunately, no music video was released for the album, so we attach a clip for the Taraine-produced track GG FT YUKA (DANCE SONG).
CHEL! – LIVING IS EASY
Living is easy; dying is easy. It’s time to move on. With LIVING IS EASY, producer CHEL! takes you to a place where time doesn’t work as we know it. A place where the past and the future intertwine and all your memories materialize before your eyes. LIVING IS EASY is a monumental intimate album full of beautiful beats, great verses from guest artists, and great skits. You can look forward to both instrumental tracks and rap tracks. Guest appearances include Mary sue, Oldman Freeman, Qontinue, and many more. If you know the three artists mentioned above, you know that you are in for a highly emotional experience. LIVING IS EASY is a record that targets your heart, and we guarantee you’ll go hug your loved ones after listening to this one. And that’s the power of art. CHEL! has done a remarkable job.
Ty Farris – Enigma With An Attitude
Ty Farris returns with a new album called Enigma With An Attitude, dominated by his signature style that combines deep thought with the edge of street reality. The album reflects his ability to lead the listener on a journey of introspection while offering a deep insight into his personality. His lyrics are not mere words, but mirror his experiences and tell stories that resonate with the reality of his listeners. Ty Farris artfully blends elements of boom bap with modern rap techniques, giving his music dynamism and power. The lyrics touch on thematic lines such as inner struggle, personal growth, and the uncompromising search for truth. The album is also a testament to Ty’s ability to reflect and interpret the world around him with sharp intelligence and deep understanding. Enigma With An Attitude isn’t just an album; it’s an intricate artistic puzzle that requires determination, intelligence, and wit to unravel. Ty Farris doesn’t just want to impress; he wants to lead the listener on a journey of self-discovery and inspiration. His voice is a powerful testament to how rap can be a platform for deep thought and personal transformation.
Myles Clayton – Heart Flows, Pt. 2
Myles Clayton released the second part of Heart Flows as a powerful expression of personal and musical growth. His lyrics are not just poems but an authentic expression of his own inner struggle and quest to overcome his own limits. The album Heart Flows opens a window into Myles’ soul, where we encounter his inner dilemmas and passionate pursuits. Each track is like an attempt to discover his own identity and search for meaning in a world full of challenges. The lyrics reflect his anxieties but also his determination to achieve personal and artistic success. One of the album’s distinct themes is Myles’ desire to become a visionary, one who not only dreams but actively pursues his goals. His words are not only an expression of personal growth but also a call to reflection and change for listeners who yearn for deeper meaning in music. Heart Flows is not only a musical experience but a profound encounter with an artist who is not only battling external influences but also his own demons. For those looking for a piece of music with deep emotional undertones and inspiration for personal growth, this album is an irresistible proposition. Myles Clayton proves his ability to translate his life experiences into a musical expression that speaks to the heart and mind of every listener. Unfortunately no music video was released for the album, so we are attaching the video for the track No More Pain.
Reaper Mook – Max ‘Pagne Goes To New York
Rapper Reaper Mook drops a new album called Max ‘Pagne Goes To New York, which features a dazzling lineup of guests including Loya, YL, Remy Banks, Lord Sko, Da$H, and Revenxnt. The album offers a whirlwind of energy and authenticity, ranging from raw street stories to personal reflections. The lyrics reflect on a hard lifestyle and tell stories of life on the fringes of society. Reaper Mook isn’t afraid to confront realities in his lyrics, offering his personal experiences in the form of sharp, uncompromising rap. The album Max ‘Pagne Goes To New York promises an uncompromising sound and powerful lyrics that leave the listener reflecting on life on the edge and yearning for a better future. With his new project, Reaper Mook once again presents himself as a strong figure in the contemporary rap scene. For fans of hard hitting rap and authentic urban stories, this album is essential.
DOPE ALBUMS
The five albums mentioned above are not the only ones you should hear. We’ve picked ten more dope albums that no one should miss. Give all the projects mentioned a chance; every single one deserves it. Guilty Simpson & Kong The Artisan have released Giants Of The Fall on all streaming services. The music event of the year is here, Anderson .Paak & Knxwledge have released their second collaborative album as the beloved duo NxWorries. Now is the perfect time to find out who Khrysis & Silent Snipers are. Excellent albums have also been released by Dy Flyy Hooligan & Malek Winter, SH4MEL & Cedar Law$, LordWillN, IAMGAWD & Clypto, Day Underscore x Jae Haze x DAZE, gustavo louis, and AKTHESAVIOR.
IAMGAWD & Clypto – More Suede (BS2.5)
Guilty Simpson & Kong The Artisan – Giants Of The Fall
Dy Flyy Hooligan & Malek Winter – Blacc Kenzou
SH4MEL & Cedar Law$ – The Aloof Icon
LordWillN – Latino Heat
gustavo louis – PREMIUM
AKTHESAVIOR – Industry Lane
Day Underscore x Jae Haze x DAZE – Night Owl Muse
NxWorries & Anderson .Paak & Knxwledge – Why Lawd?
Khrysis & Silent Snipers – Perfect Time
BEST MUSIC VIDEOS
Action Bronson smells danger, and you have to be there.
Big Hit, Hit-Boy & The Alchemist have released the music video for the hardest track of the year.
QThree and groundskeepr return the love to all their people.
Papo2oo4 and Subjxct 5 released another hit. Watch the music video for HNIC.
“I am warrior mom not a killer.” Mach-Hommy takes you to the Citadelle Laferrière, the landmark of Haiti, in the video for SUR LE PONT d’AVIGNON.
DOPE VIDEOS
We’re definitely not done with the top five music videos. We’ve picked out ten more dope clips that you definitely need to see. Give all the artists below a chance; they deserve it. The Musalini and 9th Wonder are smooth as can be. the digggers are behind the camera again, this time shooting a video for WiFiGawd. 2 Eleven, Boldy James, and Jay Worthy on one track? That’s all we need. Top-notch music videos were also released last week by DNTWATCHTV, CHRIS JOSE & DANGO FORLAINE, ZekeUltra & Nephew Hesh, Daniel Son & Futurewave, MESSIAH!, Gritfall a CLBRKS.
DNTWATCHTV – $pitta (Produced by 48THst & BBYbflo)
2 Eleven, Boldy James, Jay Worthy – Classic
WiFiGawd – TBH (DIRECTED BY DIGGERS)
The Musalini, 9th Wonder – All Love
CHRIS JOSE & DANGO FORLAINE – PENNY PINCHERS
ZekeUltra & Nephew Hesh – God’s Choses People
MESSIAH! feat. Malaya – burden of truth
Daniel Son & Futurewave – No Man’s Land
CLBRKS – Painting with Conrad (prod. Lee Scott)
And that’s it all the important news on the scene from the last week. What caught your eye this week? Let us know on Instagram or Twitter. You can expect another one next Monday. It’s going to be really interesting, so don’t miss it.
