Browsing Tag

Rap

David Rey Will Reign Over the Manchester Music Scene with His Grime Hit, Call Me King, ft Abnormal Sleepz

Posted on 9 August 2024

David Rey gave Manchester a place on the grime map with his latest single, Call Me King, featuring Abnormal Sleepz. Think of the Manchester music scene; The Smiths, Oasis and Stone Roses will immediately spring to mind, but if any artist can steal the psyche away from those luminaries, it’s Rey with this raw, cultivated track which pairs his hypnotically smooth flows with dark alt-electronic trip-hop-tinted beats which syncopate to the rhythm of the artist’s creative volition.

David Rey, originally hailing from Bermondsey and now a product of Manchester’s vibrant culture, has crafted his identity around the influences of UK grime legends like Ghetts and the resonant beats of American artists like Nipsey Hussle. His globe-spanning inspirations are evident in his music, which combines poignant introspection with visceral vitality.

Having graced the stages of over 35 venues domestically and abroad, Rey’s commanding presence is well-documented and celebrated, from performances that resonate with authenticity to airplay on platforms like BBC Radio 6 and Capital Xtra. His debut EP, Before I Begin, garnered notable praise for its lyrical depth and rhythmic sophistication, traits that continue to thrive in Call Me King.

The single itself is a study in contrasts: dark yet soulful, it delivers a mind-bending lush backdrop for Rey’s sharp, melodic flows. The track dives deep into the core of human connection and desire, rejecting the commonplace narratives of fleeting pleasures to focus on what truly resonates with the listener. George the Poet couldn’t have versed it better.

Call Me King will hit all major streaming platforms, including SoundCloud, on August 9th.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Rourky initiated the cybernetic revolution of UK hip-hop with Cyborg ft Riley

Posted on 7 August 2024

Nathan O’ Rourke, known by his stage name Rourky, has been a sonic staple in the UK for over a decade. Hailing from Birmingham, the 31-year-old rapper has been honing his craft since his teenage years, releasing music globally since 2013. Aligning with TigerBloodMuzik Entertainment, Rourky has become bigger than his gargantuan beats.

His latest single, ‘Cyborg,’ featuring Riley Zm, a drill rapper from Zambia, is a high-octane hip-hop anthem, effortlessly commanding attention with its fiery rap bars blazing across cinematically elevated beats. The track utilises synthesised electronic orchestral motifs, adding an air of grandiosity that is efficaciously juxtaposed by the grit in Rourky’s grimey bars.

The interplay between Rourky and Riley ensures that ‘Cyborg’ unfolds as a dynamic track, embedding itself in the listener’s psyche long after the electrifying hit has faded to a close. Rourky’s charisma bleeds through every progression, as he positions himself at the vanguard of hip-hop’s cybernetic future with his playfully convictive hit.

Cyborg stormed the airwaves on August 2 via TigerBloodMuzik Entertainment; stream the single on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Noremac became the king of the swagger-soaked high-vibe hip-hop banger with ‘Do It Again’

Posted on 28 July 2024

Cali hip-hop icon-in-the-making, Noremac dropped a swagger-soaked high-vibe banger with his latest release, Do It Again.

The rapper and producer doesn’t just roll with the punches in the 90s nostalgia-wrapped hit, he grooves with the wit-injected punchlines which mark him as one of the most charismatic artists on the underground.

As ludicrous as Ludacris, as magnetic as Mac Miller, Noremac, with his luxe stylistic approach to production that echoes the gloss and grit of Jay-Z while staying firmly in his own lane, sonically owns everything required to enter the pantheon of the hip-hop elite.

Crafted in his home studio, where he’s been spinning tracks since middle school, Do It Again, is a timeless hit that throbs with chest-punching boom-bap bass. Noremac’s bars bounce with a cadence that’s both sharp and infectious as his presence on the mic, allowing even the most reserved listeners to find the groove.

Do It Again was officially released on July 19; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Aaron Thip is fortified with fortitude in the prophetic beats of his latest rap track, I Ain’t Scared

Posted on 27 July 2024

Aaron Thip’s prophetic presence when he steps to the mic was exemplified in his latest fortified-with-fortitude single, I Aint Scared.

Aaron Thip, a seasoned lyricist rooted in the vibrantly gritty underground of NYC hip-hop, grips attention with vice-like intensity from the outset of his latest release which allows you to instantly register the Brooklyn-born, Harlem-raised artist, previously known as Tha Coach, as a conduit of enlightened introspective gold.

His commanding vocal presence over the beats testifies to how he belongs to a league of his own as he revisits the path he walked down to achieve mental clarity and sanctity. Yet, this track is far more than an introduction to Thip’s psyche. He fearlessly tackles the challenge of maintaining peace of mind and resilience as society’s global fabric crumbles into disarray.

In times when many struggle to find solace, optimism and faith amid endless tragedies, Thip emerges as the ultimate role model. His vibe-heavy hit marries mellow, old-school instrumentals with his potent lyrics, delivering sonic salvation for anyone in search of melodic consolation.

Stream I Ain’t Scared on Apple Music and YouTube now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Nsilo – Peterbilt: A Truck-Sized Tale of Unreckonable Grit

Posted on 25 July 2024

Nsilo’s latest single, Peterbilt, revved onto the hip-hop scene with a force as unstoppable as the eponymous truck it salutes. The narrative arc in the artist and producer’s hit may seem unconventional, yet the juggernaut of the road became a powerful parable as it becomes the centre of the track that positions Nsilo as a fearlessly untouchable contender in the annals of old-school hip-hop.

When Nsilo waxes lyrical, it’s impossible not to feel the force of his bars that have been honed by his love for 90s hip-hop greats and classic poetry alike. Yet, Peterbilt exhibits the up-and-coming artist as so much more than just an adept lyricist with a razor-sharp ability to find the perfect cadence to make every bar bounce with maximum impact.

The track’s production is a masterclass in balancing dark, layered textures with lighter elements. Waves of caustic reverb slice through the beat, resulting in an atmosphere which haunts as it uplifts and exhilarates. The meticulous synthesis attests that Nsilo knows exactly when to cast shadows and when to let the light in, mirroring the complexities of his storytelling which reflects on the values of blue-collar work, ensuring every hit is infused with authenticity and grit.

Stream Peterbilt on YouTube now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

2nd Class Citizenz bruised the boundaries in UK hip-hop with the orchestrally elevated volition in their seminal single, Change

Posted on 25 July 2024

‘Change‘ by 2nd Class Citizenz strikes with the ferocious fearlessness that exemplifies UK hip-hop while setting the collective leagues apart with its ornate orchestral arrangement that thematically juxtaposes the bruising bars, allowing the listener to reflect on how both halves live.

Each line bounces with flawless metric precision in the composition that will instantly greet you with a ‘fuck, this is fresh’ affirmation. Each rapper in the trio injects their own brand of flair, fire and fervour to make a significant sonic impact without resorting to brute force. Instead, ‘Change’ opens minds to the collective’s ethos of using the motifs to pierce lyrical gold into the psyche of their listeners.

The intellectually profound, endlessly accessible bars make every verse a revelation while allowing 2nd Class Citizenz to live up to their reputation as the grittiest, most authentic rappers in the UK.

Change is now available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Rampage Wood scorched the airwaves with luxe hip-hop hit, All Summer

Posted on 9 July 2024

Rampage Wood didn’t come to play in his latest single, All Summer, he came to conquer. Since his 2018 debut, the Arkansas underground has failed to conceal his luminary sound which has amassed a loyal international audience.

All Summer glows with the aesthetics of 00s East Coast hip-hop to belie his Southern roots which pulled through stronger in his earlier material, influenced by the likes of Lil Wayne. With gospel-esque cinematic transcendence enveloping the beats, the hit is sublime on the senses and pushes a unique dynamic behind Wood’s provoking lyricism.

As one of the most cerebral rappers in the game, his flows are finessed with witty intellect; his ability to catch you off-guard with the lyrical gold in every bar is unmatched. With flawless metric precision and swathes of charisma to energise his delivery, you can’t help but get hyped by All Summer, which carries the luxe appeal of Jay-Z’s hits while blazing through the heat in Rampage Wood’s authenticity.

All Summer was officially released on June 3rd, it is now available to stream on all major platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

The high vibes in Mike37’s spacey electronic hip-hop track, C.R.I.B., transcended Earth’s orbit

Posted on 6 July 2024

After being dubbed the Best Italian Emerging DJ in 2018, Mike37 has begun to prove his mettle in the rap scene. With over 200k streams behind his hottest track, Take Me to Your Love Again, the luminary of creative versatility has lit a beacon with the fire in his flows.

The rapper and producer’s latest single, C.R.I.B. featuring Uno Hype, is wavey vibe-heavy, cosmic-dipped production which pairs his flair with metric precision with his ability to slam charisma through your speakers.

The spacey synthetics wrapped around the solid rattle of the 808s exhibited how Mike37 isn’t just in his own league; his boundary-breaking aural identity transcends the conventional limits of the genre.

While every bar becomes an infectious mantra, the transgressing instrumentals attest to how much promise lies in the artist’s career as he gears up for the drop of his debut self-written, produced, and performed LP, HOT AIR BALLOON.

Having already released three tracks via Just Entertainment, being featured in La Stampa and on RAI and Radio Monte Carlo, it’s only a matter of time before he looks down on the industry from the top of the charts.

C.R.I.B. dropped on June 28; stream the single on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Unveiling cye: From Vegas Roots to Hip-Hop Heights

Posted on 22 June 2024

In this interview, we dive into the dynamic journey of cye, an emerging artist with roots deeply entrenched in Pomona, California, and the vibrant culture of the Las Vegas Strip. From the hardships of the 2008 housing crisis to the pivotal moments like his photoshoot with Mike Tyson and joining Entourage, cye shares the experiences that have shaped his artistic persona. He also discusses the inspiration behind his breakout single, “NYC in the Backseat,” the creation of his debut album “The Keeper,” and his ambitious plans for THE IONIC WORLD TOUR.

cye, welcome to A&R Factory! Before we delve into your music, we’d love to start the interview by giving our readers an insight into the start of your dynamic personal narrative. Can you share some insights about your upbringing in Pomona, California, and how growing up on the Las Vegas Strip influenced your music and artistic persona?

It’s good to be back on the road piecing things together. Vegas is home to us. I’m set out to make it a point for people to understand what this city means to me. Real sh*t happened there… I grew up in Vegas during the 2008 housing crisis. We didn’t have a lot all the time, but I take pride in the fact that my momma worked hard to give us a good childhood. My momma is my everything. And Vegas built the whole understanding of my entertainment standards.

The 2021 photoshoot with Mike Tyson at Tyson Ranch seemed like a pivotal moment in your career. How did that experience shape your journey?

It was cool… Really changed my whole life… It’s family and love over here, for real, like, my cousin Matt has been in business with Tyson for a long time. And Uncle Meco has been taking me with him everywhere I need to be in Hollywood and D.C. We’re all close and spend a lot of time locked in on this sh*t now.

Joining Entourage, a full-service sports and entertainment agency, was a significant step. How did that opportunity come about, and what impact did it have on your career trajectory?

That was back in Hollywood, I think 2022… Working with these companies is cool and all but it’s more hands in the pot, really… I prefer to stay to myself but when certain steps are necessary then, so be it. I am not one of these artists that’s on a mission against the industry. That’s lame sh*t. Can I say that? There has been way too much of that “F- the record labels” talk over the last decade. As a young artist, you have to identify what you want for yourself and allow the space for others to move how they need to. All that negative sh*t is flat…

“NYC in the Backseat” was your breakout single in early 2023. What was the inspiration behind the song, and how did it feel to see it resonate with so many people?

Actually, when I recorded that I hadn’t ever even been to New York City, yet. There was already a plan in place to produce and master the album in Brooklyn, though. I think Andrew [Krivonos] reached out to my manager, Mason, and set it up… Can’t remember exactly how it went. But I love NYC. It’s been dope as h*ll to see so many people, kids, grown women and all that vibe out to my sh*t. I’ve only performed the song a few times live and I’m real amped to see how they respond to it.

Your debut album “The Keeper” was released in November 2023. Can you tell us about the creative process behind the album and what message you hoped to convey through it?

It was really just an introductory piece… We wanted to provide a solidified sound, no gimmicks, with a hefty production team behind it but it’s really not a debut album in the sense of what we are working on putting together, at this point. Our team is not naive in the understanding that we have a long way to go before y’all know who I am… Understand, we spent more than $100,000 to finish TK in its entirety… Independently released and funded by my label, Recovering Child Music. There’s a lot that TK cemented into reality for me. TK is a building block of RCM, and everything else that I’ve set out to craft in this sh*t.

Working with Andrew Krivonos and having your album mastered at The Brewery Recording Studio must have been an incredible experience. How did those collaborations come to be, and what did they bring to your music?

It’s really as simple as it was… Like I said. Andrew and I work really well together. We were at an event at his studio in Los Angeles, before we did the album in Brooklyn, and we had a few drinks and talked about what my music can do, for real. I’ll always remember that. What we created together on TK is timeless sh*t that will always be noted as the music that started this whole thing.

You’ve recently announced “THE IONIC WORLD TOUR” for 2024 and 2025. What can fans expect from this tour, and how are you preparing for such a massive undertaking?

Yeah, touring is a learning process for me and I’m enjoying that. I’ve really taken my time stepping into this new space I’m in… Moving with the utmost respect and discipline in my approach. I love what fans do for the music, man. They keep us honest. If they don’t like something, they will let you know. That makes my job easier and makes their days at these festivals worth it. There are artists that waste a lot of people’s time and I’m not into that. If you’re going to spend your money to get live at one of my shows and stand in the rain and sh*t… The least we can do is give you the best f*cking music you have ever heard in your life. I want people to leave with a memorable night behind them so they can go home and f*ck and sleep good. This sh*t one big therapy session, for real. I swear that’s what Recovering Child Music is meant to be… Therapy.

The tour includes stops at over 200+ hip-hop culture shops and universities across North America. What inspired this unique approach, and what do you hope to achieve through these visits?

It’s marketing all over the world, really. I grew up in the city, that’s just how we move when you find yourself downtown. There are a lot of folks running these spots that hold down the whole culture of Hip-Hop and keep it rooted in something real. Otherwise, this sh*t would just be gimmicks re-uploaded over and over again. The people make the culture… And I stand by that. I’ve been in the streets with the people in every city we’ve been to build a connection, really.

You’ve experienced life in both Hollywood and New York City. How have these two iconic locations influenced your sound?

I grew up going between Vegas and Los Angeles like once a month, it felt like. Especially as my brothers and I started to get older… So, Hollywood always had a grip on my soul, in a way, where I knew I had to get out there just to see… And New York City is way different. I never experienced anything in my life like getting to the city, man. It’s a whole other level of living out there and we got busy right away. Even though I’m a little less into the luxurious vibe, I feel NYC does it best. I lean into what I like, and experiment once I’m in the room. My favorite sh*t in my life is shrooms and late night Hollywood / Bev Hills, too, though. It’s a cool balance.

Your stage name, cye, carries a unique identity. What’s the story behind choosing this name, and how does it represent you as an artist?

That came from my dad. I’ll end up telling this a million times but I showed this man “Cyclone” by Baby Bash and T-Pain, yeah? And while we were playing basketball and listening to the song, I put up a shot that circled around the rim a few times before going in… He said, “you put it down like a cyclone…” and called me cyclone for the rest of my fourth grade school year… 10 years later, it got shortened to cye and scribbled into my iTunes library… And I was crazy as h*ll as a kid so I always liked that name.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the next few years in your music career? Are there any new projects or collaborations on the horizon that you’re particularly excited about?

A lot has been scooped onto my plate over the last half-decade. I’ve got work that needs to be completed, right now. We’ll be in Africa next year… It’s crazy. I want to create something for the fans of this music, and maybe I have it figured out already. It’s a lot of awesome f*cking people out there, man. I’m going to get where we are meant to be in this sh*t… And I couldn’t do it without The Bullies.

Please, visit cyeforever.com to connect with cye.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Behind the Beats: Cloud Ray on Music, Tours, and “Drip”

Posted on 17 June 2024

In this interview, A&R Factory welcomes Cloud Ray, a Hip Hop and Pop artist from New Jersey, USA, known for his innovative blend of genres and energetic performances. Cloud Ray discusses his new track “Drip,” his musical influences, and how his sound has evolved over the years. From early inspirations like Usher and Nicki Minaj to performing at major festivals and embarking on international tours, Cloud Ray shares insights into his creative process, collaborations, and what fans can expect from his live shows.

Cloud Ray, welcome to A&R Factory. Before we get into your red-hot new track, Drip, could you share your sonic origin story?

Hello A&R Factory, thank you so much for welcoming me to your platform! I am a Hip Hop & Pop Artist from New Jersey, USA and I have been creating music as ‘Cloud Ray’ for the past 4 years now. Artists like The Black Eyed Peas, Usher, Nicki Minaj, Ludacris, and J. Cole who have inspired big changes in the music landscape and the music industry continue to inspire me.

My music definitely has hints of all the aforementioned artists but I try to always retain originality in what I do by breaking down genre barriers while still paying my respects to those who came before me. Growing up being surrounded by many different genres and styles of artistry, I was able to choose from a collective of my favorite genres and mash them together in a way that felt distinctive to me and who I am as an artist. My very first release, ‘Urban City Elegance’ garnered over 1 million streaming listeners and the music builds on that every day.

What were some of the early influences that shaped your sound?

 Some of the early influences that shaped my sound came from artists like Usher, Kanye West, and even Nicki Minaj. Hip Hop served as an outlet for me to express my feelings as well as a place for me to expand on my creativity. These artists always bring a unique sonic package that stamps many of their records as timeless hits. The Black Eyed Peas introduced me to a blend of Hip Hop, Pop, and EDM that really set a foundation in the music industry for my music to even be possible and accepted. I was always a fan of the way EDM music had a party vibe to it. I love when you can go somewhere and feel a collective uplift in energy and excitement. For me, I found that going to roller skating rinks, carnivals, amusement parks, and even nightclubs, where this music was often played, locked in core memories for me. As an artist, I knew that I wanted to give back the same feelings and experiences that both Hip Hop and Pop music have offered me throughout my life.

Where has your music taken you so far?

I have been truly blessed to see where my music could take me. In 2023, my music took me on a 4 month US tour to many of the major cities where people were listening to my songs. Most recently, I embarked on a new US tour that started in February 2024 to target cities I have previously been to as well as cities that I haven’t. I also ventured overseas for the first ever time in my career to Europe where I performed in multiple countries including France and England. I have made it to major award shows like the BET Awards and The Grammys as well as many festivals including A3C Festival, Rolling Loud, and SXSW.

How has your sound evolved since your debut? Can you describe some key milestones which have defined who you are as an artist today?

This is a great question. My sound has evolved in such a way that makes me feel closer to finding freedom in whatever genre I do while my voice and approach are still identifiable as Cloud Ray. I think through new experiences and an ever-evolving soundscape, change is inevitable. With this freedom, I can always deliver something fresh and exciting. I am also able to explore my cultural roots as well as collaborate with other talented artists. Some of the key milestones that have defined me as an artist today come from my sound evolving. ‘Burn It Down’ turns the heat up for the summer while shining a light on my Caribbean roots whereas my latest single ‘We Need’ showcases the more vulnerable side of me that I don’t share that deeply too often.

How did your collab with Tati Dior come about, and what was the creative process behind Drip?

The collaboration with Tati Dior came together when I was searching for the right female to put on the track. I remember my team suggesting that we pitch the song to her and when they reached out to her she responded that she loved the track and was all in. When I found out that she was going to be on the record, I was beyond excited. I knew that she would bring the level of professionalism, quality, enthusiasm and creative style to this record that only she could bring. This record was originally meant to be a part of ‘Urban City Elegance’ which was released in 2021 but it was eventually decided that it would be better as a standalone single. While that EP showcased songs about heartbreak and healing, ‘Drip’ was written about female empowerment and luxury living. In 2024, it’s such a great feeling to have this song finally be released with the best feature on it.

Are there any upcoming shows your fans should look forward to? What can your fans expect when they see you on stage?

Yes! I will be performing in San Diego on June 21st and then Los Angeles on June 22nd. Currently I am on a US tour until November and more dates will be announced soon. More information regarding my upcoming shows can be found on Spotify, www.cloudraymusic.com/events or by searching ‘Cloud Ray’ on Songkick or Bandsintown. When you see a live Cloud Ray performance, you can expect a high energy, crowd participation moments, and connectivity. I typically have merchandise for sale at my shows and sometimes you might get a sneak peek into what’s next from me.

What’s next for Cloud Ray?

New content is always on the way and I am currently working on a few collaborations with some very talented artists! I am currently on tour with new dates and cities being announced soon. I have a major announcement in September that I cannot wait to share but you’ll have to stay tuned to find out what it is. You can find me on all socials @cloudraymusic so tap in with me!

A&R Factory, I want to thank you again for interviewing me today and giving me the opportunity to step into the spotlight of your world for a brief moment. I want to thank all the readers tuned in for your continued support and I look forward to the next time that I get to talk to you. Stay blessed, stay lit, and one love.

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Discover more about Cloud Ray via his official website.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast