I’ve been meaning to post this up for a bit, but as usual, better late than never. Besides is a collection of Shad’s recent guest appearances and remixes, all seamlessly blended by the one and only DJ T-Lo. The best writer in the game, IMO.
Download here.
Seattle: Come to Sol’s Yours Truly release party on Friday, January 20th, at Neumos to see Shad perform live! (and cop Sol’s new album too!)
Speaking of Shad, here’s a great mini-documentary about a recent trip to his family’s homeland, Rwanda. As I always tell MC’s, and really any young people in general, think global, not local.
And while we’re on the subject of TED talks, here’s the homey Shad discussing “Bearings” and how he stays focused on the right path. If your favorite rapper couldn’t get up and do one of these talks about a substantive topic, and do it coherently, you’re listening to the wrong people.
A few weeks ago, Shad performed at the Capitol Hill Block Party here in Seattle and his super talented DJ, T-Lo, sadly wasn’t able to make the trip. I was honored to step behind the tables and help keep the show moving in his absence, though I don’t think I’ll ever get used to being on stage. Just not for me.
Shad, on the other hand, is a natural. Above is a quick clip of him performing “Compromise,” a great record off his classic The Old Prince album. If you missed the official video for the track, peep it here.
A few days ago, we all watched in agony as the Black Eyed Peas performed during half time of the Super Bowl and following that debacle, I had numerous debates with friends centered upon the notion of authenticity and “selling out.” Without rehashing those conversations and instead to take it another direction, it’s safe to say that Shad represents everything that I look for in a MC in 2011. Obviously, the skills are there, but lots of people can rhyme. It’s another thing to not just speak on “real” issues, but to do so in an intelligent, thought provoking, and positive manner.
“Be the change you want to see in the world,” and take pride in the music you create, consume, and generally identify with. Would you be comfortable playing the music you listen to for kids in your neighborhood? Your parents? Your coworkers? If not, you should reevaluate your consumption. This isn’t to say that you have to listen to nothing but positive music, but you must be able to explain why you appreciate the art you associate yourself with, at least on some level. Assuming, of course, you consider yourself a music lover. If you’re just a listener and not a lover, carry on.
Oh hell yes. As referenced here, Shad’s new album, TSOL, is on the way and I couldn’t be more excited for a project this year. I think the only other rapper that makes me rewind for lyrics as much as Shad is Lupe, and y’all already know I’m a Lupe Stan. If you aren’t up on Shad, don’t worry, there’s room on the bandwagon. But um…get on NOW.
Spread the mp3 to your people and share the good word on Shad…
That’s right y’all…Shad, aka one of the top 5 MC’s doing it today (no hyperbole), has a new album on the way. You’re not ready, so get ready.