Music

Cam’ron Sparks Controversy, Chicago and Louisiana Have the Best Rap Lyricists, Not New York

Cam’ron, hailing from the birthplace of hip-hop in Harlem, has ignited a heated debate with his recent comments on rap lyricism. Despite his New York roots and significant influence in the early 2000s, Cam’ron surprised fans by naming Chicago and Louisiana as the top regions for rap lyricists during a recent episode of It Is What It Is.

While discussing the Windy City’s rap scene with co-host Mase, Cam’ron praised its artists, stating, “They may have the best lyricists. Them and Louisiana. I’m talking about, like as far as lyricism.” This bold statement was backed by Cam’ron’s reflections on the historical elitism of New York’s rap scene in the ’80s and ’90s. “New York used to call people country,” he noted, using Lil Wayne as a prime example. “Even thinking about Lil Wayne. You get on a record with Lil Wayne, you gotta be careful. You get on a record with Eminem, you gotta be careful.”

Though Eminem, hailing from Detroit, only partially supports Cam’ron’s thesis, the rapper remained steadfast. “These n**gas are really lyricists,” he asserted. Cam’ron’s admiration for Weezy and Chicago artists isn’t without precedent. Dipset, his group, recognized Lil Wayne’s talent early on, collaborating with him multiple times before Tha Carter III. Additionally, Cam’ron worked with Kanye West during his early days as a rapper, featuring on West’s second album and having West produce tracks on 2004’s Purple Haze.

Cam’ron’s critical stance towards New York hasn’t been limited to its music scene. Recently relocating to Las Vegas, he cited the city’s rat problem as a major reason for his move. “I just left New York. That sht was disgusting,” he shared on Instagram Live. “I can’t do this sht… I’m not apologizing for it neither. I ain’t even gonna act like I’m sorry for it a little bit.” Now enjoying life in the desert, Cam’ron made headlines again by dressing up as his former podcast guest, OJ Simpson, at a Vegas Fourth of July party.

Cam’ron’s controversial opinions have undoubtedly stirred the pot, leaving fans and critics alike debating whether Chicago and Louisiana truly outshine New York in the realm of rap lyricism.

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Album Review

Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album

Dian Sheng releases his long-awaited first English-language album, “Sid,” a genre-defying collection of songs that includes pop, rock, electronic, and jazz. “Sid” is a deep, meditative exploration of identity, relationships, and self-growth, spanning 29 minutes and 12 seconds across eight tracks. This album is a personal exploration of the complex emotions of mankind and the vitality and jubilation of life.

From the opening track, “Right Now,” Dian Sheng establishes a sense of urgency and reflection. The upbeat song “I Come From Far” examines the connection between the self and one’s environment. It has joyful beats and layers that make you think and feel like part of the narrative.

The jazz ballad “Undecided Love” delves into the complexities of modern romance, featuring tender vocals and instrumentation that showcase Sheng’s delicate touch as a songwriter. “It Will Be Alright” is an empowering anthem about overcoming life’s biggest obstacles, combining electronic beats with a rock influence.

“Seventeen” is bursting with youthful energy, and its production captures the restlessness and emotionality of adolescent life. Two introspective songs with similar atmospheres, “The Way Before” and “This Life,” match chilling melodies with moving lyrics that touch on bygone relationships, self-awareness, and the quest for meaning we all experience.

The album concludes with “Shining As Your Name,” and the final few minutes of this piece alone evoke a strong sense of hope. Dian Sheng demonstrates his ability to join emotional depth with new styles. “Sid” is an invitation into the rich musical universe of Dian Sheng, where you can both consider yourself and feel influenced.

Written by:

Faith Koch

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Artist Spotlight

Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound

“The P.L.U.R. Project” begins like a rush of light across a crowded dance floor as jubilant, purposeful, and very human. This seven-song, 29-minute journey from the EDM pioneer Sporty-O is a cultural reset built around peace, love, unity, and respect.

Sporty-O establishes the emotional timbre for the entire project from the first track of its lead single, “Spirit Higher.” The song is anthemic, its purposes well outlined despite a high-gloss production. It’s a centerpiece that establishes the mood of an intensive exploration of sound and self-awareness.

“The P.L.U.R. Project” is just as much about managing your feelings as it is about moving. Sporty-O creates each record with intention, writing things that make people think on the dance floor. Another high-energy song is “Happy Together,” with Lorme and Chris Willis, pulsing warmth and togetherness. “SOLD!” has a clean, feel-good sound that embodies the community spirit of EDM culture.

Sporty-O embraces a multi-genre EDM palette on the EP, fusing forward-thinking sounds with uptempo beats. Tracks like “Revolution” with Specimen A and “Geek’d Up” with Baby Sweet provide lots of energy and edge. “Piece Of My Mind” is more introspective, while “Cheveyo” features a diverse array of collaborators and culminates in a rich, layered sound, all while maintaining a global welcoming spirit.

What makes this project unique is that it serves both and reminds people of the origins of dance culture. Sporty-O aims to help people rediscover the heartbeat of the community. “The P.L.U.R. Project” is an EDM experience that reaches beyond the speakers, colorful and thoughtful about meaning in music-based culture.