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Benny The Butcher Reflects On Being A “Nerd” In School

Benny The Butcher is still reeling from the success of Burden Of Proof, an album that has been earning praise as an album of the year contender. Today, the Griselda lyricist hit up Sway In The Morning to chop it up with the gang, opening up about some of his influences — both on the lyrical level and beyond.
Benny The Butcher

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“Definitely Rakim,” reveals Benny. “Nas. Jay. But early? I remember getting it from Westside Gunn — a Father MC tape — I remember me getting that tape and liking his delivery. It kinda reminded me of Big Daddy Kane. He was very influential to me. I don’t hear many people mention that name, but Father MC, man. I remember that tape.”

And while much has been rightly celebrated about Benny’s prowess as a lyricist, The Butcher reveals that his pen game extends beyond the world of hip-hop. Taking things back to the school years, he reveals that he was quite the academic in actuality, taking pride in his good grades and literary prowess. “I definitely read a lot in school, and even more in prison,” he reflects. “I always was good, even in my times of being bad as hell in school. I always used to get good grades in school period. Especially English, writing, and literature. I’m a good essay writer, I know how to write. I was just good at it.”

He proceeds to share a memory of a parent-teacher conference he attended with his aunt, where he believed some of his misbehavior would be the focal point. “My literature teacher told her he’s a joy to have in my class,” reflects Benny. “‘I love to pick him to read.’ I remember her telling my aunt ‘I wish I could have him read the whole book, but I be having to give other students the chance to read.’ I was like, ‘oh shit, I’m not as bad as I thought, I’m really a nerd in this muthafucka!”

“You probably the King of the Nerds if you a nerd,” marvels Sway, sparking a laugh from the gang. Clearly, the encouragement from a good teacher can have a lasting impression on somebody, and it’s nice to see that Benny The Butcher still takes pride in his academic achievements. Check out the full interview below (nerd talk transpires near the conclusion), and be sure to catch up with our own interview with The Butcher right here.

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Kieran James Honors Memory with “Part of the Grind”

Singer-songwriter Kieran James delivers a devastating new single with “Part of the Grind,” a track to tackle the tangled emotions behind loss and memory. A love letter penned to a close friend who faced severe cognitive decline, the song’s emotional heft feels universal yet heartbreakingly personal.

Set to delicate instrumentation and achingly sung vocals, “Part of the Grind” is both a lament and an honoring, a means of remembering while addressing the unavoidable cost of time and illness. His voice floats, leaving room for silence and the long pauses that so often come with grief. But in that silence, there is warmth as well, a refusal to let memory be totally extinguished.

Resilience is also implied in the song’s title, a reminder that even in heartbreak, life goes on and holding the memory of someone stays with the rhythm of everyday living. it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever looked on witnessing decline, mixed sorrow with love.

In Kieran James’s “Part of the Grind,” we hear music as well as go behind it. He gives us room feel, to mourn, and to honor. In the process, he turns private pain into something achingly universal, a song for everyone who has either loved or lost.

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Esthy glows up with joy on new anthem “light it up”

In her latest song, “light it up,” singer-songwriter and producer Esthy from LA brings a vibrant and uplifting vibe that feels like sunshine in musical form. By mixing elements of playful country with polished pop sounds, she creates a track that’s all about having fun and enjoying life.

Esthy’s singing truly shines, showcasing a lively and confident style. There’s a playful tone in her voice that makes the lyrics feel friendly and inviting, encouraging you to set aside your worries and immerse yourself in the moment.

“light it up” radiates energy and is lively and bright, featuring catchy guitar riffs and upbeat rhythms that draw you in right away. If you enjoy artists like Anne-Marie or OneRepublic, you’ll love this song, and Esthy adds her unique flair, making it special and memorable.

Esthy has a talent for creating catchy melodies, and with this one, you’ll find yourself humming throughout your day. Esthy is here to spread joy, inspire energy, and make music that connects with you instantly. This track is designed to remind you of your true unstoppable nature, and Esthy lights it up.

CLICK HERE TO STREAM Esthy’s “lights it up” on Spotify.
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