Story

Drake Rapped From The Heart On “The Calm”

Following 40’s epic reveal of the emotionally-charged backstory surrounding “The Calm,” a track he still considers his favorite Drake song, it feels appropriate to highlight the So Far Gone classic on this Throwback Thursday. For those curious, the producer recently spoke to Kevin Durant about his experience making the song, which took place following a heated fight between Drizzy and his uncle. With tension running high, Drake proceeded to queue the beat and “body the record,” by 40’s own telling.

Upon revisiting “The Calm,” the emotion brimming beneath Drake’s voice is evident in the opening lines. “Dedicated to my mom and I swear my word is bond,” he raps, bringing his first verse to a close. “Everything will be okay and it won’t even take that long / you can see it in my face or even read it on my palm.” As the song continues, Drake reflects on his then-strained relationship with his father, sharing a few poignant bars about the complicated dynamic. “My dad called and got me feeling guilty and ashamed / like, how I had a Rolls and I went and got a Range,” reflects Drizzy. “And he paying for his cigarettes with dollars and some change.”

A powerful indication of Drake’s lyrical capabilities, and one that arrived rather early into his career — seeing how everything has since played it, one has to wonder whether or not “The Calm” played a major role in shaping his trajectory. It clearly left one hell of an impression on 40. What about you?

QUOTABLE LYRICS

Hoping Western Union doing currency exchange
Cause my dad called and got me feeling guilty and ashamed
Like, how I had a Rolls and I went and got a Range
And he paying for his cigarettes with dollars and some change
Damn, and I can only feel his pain
Cause in Memphis, Tennessee there’s only so much to attain
So I’m filling out the form at the counter once again
He say he love me, I just hope he doesn’t say that shit in vain

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Music

Tiri The Seed Breathes New Life into Nostalgia with ‘Back In The Room’

Tiri The Seed expertly blends vintage musical elements with contemporary production techniques in “Back In The Room.” This track pulsates with a retro vibe, yet maintains a fresh sonic identity, largely due to Tiri’s charismatic vocal delivery, which infuses the mix with an effortlessly cool energy. Thematically, “Back In The Room” explores the nuances of reconnection, encapsulating that poignant emotional experience of revisiting spaces or moments previously perceived as lost.

Musically, Tiri’s signature vocal timbre overlays an infectious rhythmic foundation paired with lush, sweeping synths, evoking the ambiance of a late-night drive down memory lane. The lyrics are crafted to provoke introspection while the production invites physical movement, striking a harmonious balance between nostalgia and celebration. Tiri’s warm delivery creates an intimate listening experience, drawing the audience into a shared reminiscence of formative moments. The track encapsulates a dichotomy of nostalgia and optimism, making it essential for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic imbued with modern sensibilities.

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Story

Janet Noh Takes a Deep Dive into Vulnerability with ‘One Breath’

Janet Noh’s latest single, “One Breath,” presents a poignant exploration of emotional depth through a minimalistic sonic arrangement. The track harnesses dynamics and silence, allowing Noh’s nuanced vocal delivery to take center stage.

The single “One Breath” engages in introspective self-examination, showcasing Noh’s adeptness at lyrical composition that balances vulnerability with strength. Her phrasing and tonal choices exhibit a masterclass in expressive restraint, allowing listeners to engage with the subtle emotional undercurrents present in the music.

The listening experience is intimate, akin to sharing a personal revelation, which enhances the profound quality of the piece. As the final notes fade, the lingering resonance of the song invites reflection, echoing themes of hope and resilience that are striking in their simplicity. Janet Noh successfully cultivates an atmosphere of comfort and contemplation, which speaks to the listener on a personal and universal level.