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.
Album Review
R3b3l I explores self-discovery through sound on “A Different Frequency” album
In a music scene often ruled by lyrics, R3b3l I proves that you can tell a powerful story without a single lyric. “A Different Frequency” is a twelve-track instrumental hip-hop and rap-inspired album inviting you into a deeply personal journey of growth, self-discovery, and purpose, speaking its message purely through mood, rhythm, and expression.
“Dance Before the Throne” opens the album, immediately establishing the tone of reflection and reverence. From here, “Elevate” and “The Wave” continue, adding momentum and a sense of movement and change. Each piece is a chapter in a larger story, allowing you to interpret the music with your own experience.
Songs like “I AM Power,” “Level Up,” and “Awaken” seem to be a big part of the progression of the album. The energy is one of empowerment and inner evolution. “The Jazzy Hop” is a nice change of pace in style, with a smooth, groove-flavored taste that shows R3b3l I’s versatility. Meanwhile, “Carousel,” “Raindrops,” and “Heartbeat” are moments of introspection that balance uplifting themes with emotional depth and openness.
The project wraps up on an emotional high with “Ancestors,” a heartfelt tribute to the forebears and the invisible forces that still influence us on our journeys. It’s a fitting way to close out an album about connection, growth, and purpose. “A Different Frequency” is more than a collection of tracks with carefully constructed instrumentals and thoughtful sequencing, and it’s a rewarding journey for those who want immersive instrumental hip-hop with heart, imagination, and substance.
Artist Spotlight
“Signalling Signatures” finds Mr Pigeons exploring dreams, truth, and hidden meanings
While the first look at an upcoming project usually sets the expectations, Mr Pigeons does something more ambitious with “Signalling Signatures.” With this release, the hip-hop artist opens up a portal into “Shining Arras,” inviting you into a world where dreams, symbols, and hidden meanings collide.
“Signalling Signatures” is an exploration of the thin veil between reality and imagination, based on themes of altered consciousness and shifting perspectives. The song is a mix of mythology, film, and spiritual symbolism and encourages you to look beyond the ordinary and find the messages in everyday life. Mr Pigeons delivers with purpose and swagger, blending introspection with crisp storytelling. He also renders the abstract ideas of the song accessible.
The thing about “Signalling Signatures” that is so compelling is its sheer audacity to challenge you. There are no easy answers in this song, only a quest for truth, perception, and uncertainty. A good opening chapter to “Shining Arras,” and it manages to build up suspense as well as showing Mr Pigeons’ artistic vision. “Signalling Signatures” is a good introduction to what could be an interesting new creative phase for the artist.
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