Music

Rakim Applauds Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar, A Victory for Real Hip Hop

If “hip hop” had a face, it might just be Rakim. The legendary rapper, who revolutionized the genre in the 1980s and influenced icons like Nas, JAY-Z, and Kendrick Lamar, recently dropped a new album and shared his thoughts on the highly publicized Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar battle of 2024.

During his press tour, Rakim praised both Drake and Kendrick Lamar for their willingness to take on the challenge, risking their commercial success for the sake of the art. “A lot of people in that position won’t accept no challenge because they got too much to lose,” he told Billboard. “So, it was dope that these brothers put the mainstream success down and said, ‘Yeah, let’s do it.’”

Rakim acknowledged Drake’s prowess as an artist but emphasized that the battle highlighted a significant cultural divide in hip hop. He saw the clash as a showdown between mainstream and real hip hop, with the latter emerging victorious. “It showed the difference between real hip-hop and mainstream hip-hop,” Rakim stated. “Younger artists now know that there’s a difference.”

The rapper believes the battle helped redefine the genre, reminding artists that they can choose between different styles. “A lot of them didn’t understand that,” he explained. “They just listened to the majority, not knowing that people don’t categorize what they were hearing as real hip-hop.”

Rakim expressed newfound respect for both Drake and Kendrick Lamar, viewing their battle as a crucial moment for the genre. “The battle was very needed for the genre,” he said. “I tip my hat to them brothers. Let’s just hope that it stays to the music.”

Ultimately, Rakim’s admiration for both artists underscores his deep love for hip hop. While he’s always praised Kendrick Lamar, his recognition of Drake’s talent shows his commitment to the genre’s growth and evolution.

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Artist Spotlight

The skies the limit for this Wirral Popstress

‘Wish I Never Knew’ is Charliee’s second single inside a year. Her debut, ‘Lose My Mind’ has already gathered over 10,000 streams on Spotify alone. You’re hooked the minute you hear her trusted ukulele. ‘Wish I Never Knew’ is a delicious slice of uptempo pop. The track is a bright and empowering despite the lyrics brimming with anger and frustration.

Yeah cos you’ll head to shallow water, once he’s turned your river into rot

It’s a tale of a relationship turned sour and Charliee delivers it with so much passion and conviction. Under the watchful eye of Big Condo Records, the skies the limit for this Wirral Popstress. We all can’t wait for the E.P.!

‘Wish I Never Knew’ is available on Spotify, iTunes, Google Play + more!

Review by Jay @vinyl_scouse

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Indie

“Apothecary” by Intercontinen7al stirs a global sonic vibe with a 90s twist

Born from a collaborative process, the most recent single by Intercontinen7al, “Apothecary,” delivers a bold testament to what international collaboration can accomplish. It seamlessly merges the best of the 90s alternative rock energy with modern sonic experimentation. Featured on their newest album ‘Volume 5,’ the track represents an impressive amalgamation of diverse international talent, with the mix of Matt Smith’s gritty guitar work, Alex Burke’s intricate basslines, and the vocals of UK-based Kelly Wandless uniting to form a musical antidote to genre conformity.

“Apothecary” provides a foundation that evokes a refreshing throwback to the nostalgic nod of the golden grunge era, paying tribute to the 90s with a swirl of something contemporary and exciting. It offers a sense of walking into a concealed, mystical shop where every sound is a cure for something unspoken. Wandless’ voice drips with emotion, seamlessly floating over grungy guitar riffs and dynamic synth lines, guiding the song in unexpected directions, perfectly harmonizing with the intriguing instrumental backdrop.

What’s more striking about “Apothecary” is its captivating narrative underlying its sonic appeal. It’s a global effort recorded across all seven continents and uniting musicians to infuse an intangible richness to the track. It’s a reminder that music transcends geographical and cultural boundaries when creative minds merge styles to establish a sense of unity, reflecting something meaningful by drawing from the past and innovating for the future.

In “Apothecary,” Intercontinen7al demonstrates its adeptness in building a sophisticated, globally-inspired sonic experience. Their distinctive, almost cinematic aura captivates the audience. It elicits a desire for more of their innovative, cross-continental artistry, thereby continually challenging the perceived confines of what’s possible in music.

For more information about Intercontinen7al, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Intercontinen7al’s “Apothecary“ on Spotify.
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