by Jonathan P-Wright | Aug 16, 2024 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
VideoIn the latest display of his relentless creative prowess, Joyner Lucas has unveiled a hard-hitting new single titled “Sticks & Stones,” enlisting the formidable talents of Conway the Machine. This potent collaborative effort arrives accompanied by a visually striking music video that transports viewers to the heart of New York City’s iconic Times Square.
An Uncompromising Lyrical Onslaught
From the outset, “Sticks & Stones” pulls no punches, delivering an uncompromising lyrical onslaught that leaves a lasting impact. The track opens with a blistering verse from Conway the Machine, whose raw and unfiltered bars paint a vivid portrait of the harsh realities plaguing inner-city communities. His words resonate with a sense of urgency and authenticity, drawing listeners into a world where violence and desperation are inescapable truths.
A Cinematic Odyssey Through the Concrete Jungle
Complementing the hard-hitting lyrics is a visually captivating music video directed by Trevor Finney. The clip transports viewers to the heart of Times Square, where Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine are seen mobbing with their respective crews, exuding an aura of defiance and authenticity.
The neon-drenched backdrop of Times Square serves as a fitting canvas for the artists’ raw and unapologetic narratives, juxtaposing the glitz and glamour of the city with the harsh realities they confront through their music. The video’s cinematography masterfully captures the energy and intensity of the track, immersing viewers in a cinematic odyssey through the concrete jungle.
Continuing a Legacy of Fearless Storytelling
For Joyner Lucas, “Sticks & Stones” represents another chapter in his ongoing legacy of fearless storytelling and uncompromising artistic expression. The track follows a series of powerful releases over the past year, including “24 hours to live,” “Devil’s Work 2,” “Blackout” with Future, “What’s That?,” “Cut U Off” with NBA YoungBoy, “Broski,” and “Seventeen.”
These diverse offerings have solidified Lucas’ reputation as a versatile and multifaceted artist, capable of seamlessly navigating various genres and themes while maintaining a distinct and unmistakable voice.
A Highly Anticipated Album on the Horizon
Fans of Joyner Lucas can anticipate the inclusion of “Sticks & Stones” and the aforementioned tracks on his highly anticipated forthcoming album, “Not Now, I’m Busy.” Teasing the project in March 2023, Lucas described it as an immersive audio experience akin to a cinematic journey.
“It’s like an audio movie. It’s an experience, and when you pop it in, you feel like you’re watching a movie. I really wanted to bring that to life,” the “Will” rapper explained to XXL. “Movies [are] my thing. If I can create my own movie, what kind of movie would I create? What would it look like? What would it sound like? What actors would be in it? That’s what this album is.”
With such a bold and ambitious vision, “Not Now, I’m Busy” promises to be a standout release in Joyner Lucas’ already impressive discography, further cementing his status as a premier storyteller and cultural commentator in the realm of hip-hop.
The Enduring Power of Raw Lyricism
In an era where hip-hop is often dominated by catchy hooks and radio-friendly beats, “Sticks & Stones” serves as a potent reminder of the enduring power of raw, unfiltered lyricism. Both Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine deliver verses that resonate with a visceral authenticity, refusing to shy away from the harsh truths and grim realities that shape their respective narratives.
This unapologetic approach to storytelling has long been a hallmark of the two artists’ careers, earning them a dedicated following among fans who crave honesty and substance over fleeting trends and commercial compromises.
A Collaborative Tour de Force
Beyond its lyrical prowess, “Sticks & Stones” also stands as a testament to the power of collaboration within the hip-hop community. By joining forces, Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine have created a sonic tapestry that amplifies their individual strengths while forging a cohesive and impactful artistic statement.
The chemistry between the two artists is palpable, with their contrasting yet complementary styles seamlessly intertwining to create a dynamic and multifaceted listening experience. This collaborative effort not only showcases their respective talents but also highlights the rich diversity and creative potential that exists within the hip-hop genre.
Embracing the Gritty Realities of Urban Life
One of the most striking aspects of “Sticks & Stones” is its unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities that pervade urban environments. Through their lyrics, Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine shed light on the struggles, violence, and despair that often go unseen or overlooked by mainstream society.
Their words serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and perseverance required to navigate these treacherous landscapes, resonating with audiences who have experienced similar hardships firsthand. By giving voice to these oft-marginalized narratives, the artists contribute to a broader cultural dialogue, challenging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and seek meaningful change.
Pushing the Boundaries of Artistic Expression
In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, “Sticks & Stones” stands as a testament to the genre’s ability to push the boundaries of artistic expression. Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine have crafted a work that defies conventional expectations, blending raw lyricism, cinematic visuals, and uncompromising social commentary into a potent artistic statement.
By refusing to adhere to industry norms or cater to mainstream sensibilities, the artists have carved out a unique space for themselves, resonating with audiences who crave authenticity and depth over fleeting trends and commercial compromises.
A Celebration of Nonconformity and Individuality
At its core, “Sticks & Stones” is a celebration of nonconformity and individuality – two values that have long been central to the ethos of hip-hop culture. Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine’s unwavering commitment to their artistic visions and unapologetic storytelling serves as an inspiration to aspiring creatives and music enthusiasts alike.
Through their music, they challenge listeners to embrace their own unique perspectives and lived experiences, rejecting societal pressures to conform or dilute their narratives. This defiant spirit resonates with a generation seeking to forge their own paths and assert their identities in an increasingly homogenized cultural landscape.
In a world where authenticity and raw expression often take a backseat to commercial considerations, “Sticks & Stones” stands as a timely and resonant artistic statement. Joyner Lucas and Conway the Machine have crafted a work that fearlessly confronts societal ills, celebrates nonconformity, and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression.
by Laghe Andrews | Mar 29, 2024 | Latest, Music News |
Photo by Pavan Trikutam on Unsplash
In an intriguing development in the music world, Joyner Lucas, the revered rapper from Massachusetts, recently shed light on the significant challenges he faces when trying to communicate with fellow rapper and collaborator, Eminem. During a candid conversation on The Breakfast Club, Lucas compared the difficulty of reaching Eminem to the task of trying to get former President Barack Obama on the phone.
The Challenge of Contacting Eminem
“Getting on the phone with him, you could probably hop on the phone with Barack [Obama] quicker than you could hop on the phone with Marshall“, Joyner Lucas shared.
This statement, given by Lucas, serves to highlight the level of difficulty involved in reaching Eminem for a conversation. Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, reportedly maintains a high level of privacy, even when dealing with fellow musicians.
Joyner Lucas on The Breakfast Club
During his appearance on The Breakfast Club, Lucas emphasized the necessity for musicians of his stature to be cautious when interacting with individuals who may have questionable motives. In this context, he described his experiences attempting to connect with Eminem. According to Lucas, Eminem’s phone calls are typically initiated by an assistant via a 1-800 number, complete with hold music and a request for patience while Eminem comes to the phone.
Eminem’s Uniqueness
This method of communication, as described by Lucas, underscores the uniqueness of Eminem’s approach to maintaining his privacy. As Lucas explains, it is nearly impossible to obtain Eminem’s personal number, making him a highly inaccessible figure within the music industry.
Lucas’ Perceptions
Lucas further elaborated on his observations of Eminem’s behavior during their collaboration for the 2018 single “Lucky You”. He recalled how Eminem maintained a certain distance, appearing somewhat aloof during their interactions.
The Influence of Eminem’s Past
Lucas’ conversation with another of Eminem’s long-time colleagues, Royce Da 5’9″, shed light on the reasons behind Eminem’s guarded nature. It appears that past experiences have left Eminem wary of forming new connections, leading to his current approach to interpersonal interactions.
Understanding Eminem
Upon reflecting on his own experiences within the music industry, Lucas expressed a newfound understanding of Eminem’s approach to maintaining his privacy. The challenges and experiences that come with fame and success in the music industry can make it difficult to trust new acquaintances and form new friendships.
Maintaining Privacy in the Music Industry
In the world of music and entertainment, maintaining privacy can often be a complex task. The experiences shared by Joyner Lucas highlight the lengths that some artists, like Eminem, will go to protect their personal space and privacy.
The Parallels to President Obama
The comparison made by Lucas between contacting Eminem and former President Barack Obama serves to underline the level of privacy maintained by Eminem. It also adds a touch of humor to the scenario, given the widely acknowledged difficulty of reaching a former President.
The Significance of Privacy
In today’s digital age, where personal information can easily be shared and exploited, the importance of maintaining privacy cannot be overstated. Eminem’s approach to managing his personal communications serves as a notable example of privacy preservation in the public sphere.
Lucas’ Message to Fellow Musicians
Lucas’ shared experiences serve as a reminder to fellow musicians about the importance of maintaining personal boundaries and ensuring their privacy. This is especially vital for artists who, like Lucas and Eminem, are constantly in the public eye and subject to intense scrutiny.
The Future of Collaborations
While Eminem’s approach to privacy might seem extreme to some, it does not appear to have negatively impacted his collaborations with other artists. His work with Lucas on “Lucky You” is a testament to this fact.
Conclusion
The anecdotes shared by Joyner Lucas provide a fascinating insight into the world of Eminem. They reveal a man who values his privacy, and who has implemented unique methods to protect it. These revelations underscore the often overlooked challenges that musicians face in maintaining their personal boundaries amidst the demands of fame.
by Laghe Andrews | Mar 15, 2024 | Latest, Music News |
Photo by Hanny Naibaho on Unsplash
Esteemed rapper, Joyner Lucas, has recently made headlines with the announcement of his summer headlining tour, titled ‘Not Now I’m Busy’. This musical journey is designed to coincide with the launch of his much-anticipated album of the same name, set to hit the music scene on Mar. 22.
An Overview of the Tour
Lucas’ tour is set to commence on May 11 at the renowned Uptown Theater in Minneapolis. The tour promises an enticing lineup, with a total of 24 performances scheduled before reaching its grand finale on Jun. 22. This closing event, dubbed the Joyner Fest, will be hosted at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Supporting Lucas on this musical expedition are artists Millyz and Dax, who have been creating waves in the music industry with their unique styles.
Ticket Sale Details
For fans eager to secure their spot at these performances, general tickets will be available for purchase starting Friday, Mar. 8 at 10 a.m. local time. For those who can’t wait that long, pre-sale tickets will be available from Wednesday, Mar. 6 until Thursday, Mar. 7 at 10 p.m. local time. All ticket sales will be conducted through Lucas’ official website.
The Anticipation for ‘Not Now I’m Busy’
As fans eagerly await the Not Now I’m Busy tour, Lucas has given them a taste of what’s to come with the release of the Conway the Machine-assisted single, “Sticks & Stones.”
This single, much like Lucas’ previous work, showcases his lyrical prowess and strong storytelling abilities. If “Sticks & Stones” is any indication of what’s to come, fans can expect an album filled with powerful tracks, each telling a compelling story.
With the Not Now I’m Busy tour set to commence soon, fans of Joyner Lucas are bracing themselves for a summer filled with powerful performances and compelling new music. As the world waits for the first notes to drop, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a memorable musical journey.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 15, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Renowned musician, Joyner Lucas, has made a triumphant return to his Massachusetts roots with the official release of his brand new single, “Seventeen“. The music video accompanying the single showcases Lucas’ deep connections to his home turf and serves as a heartfelt tribute to the late Mac Miller.
Lucas’ Return to Massachusetts
In the video, which was released on a Friday, Lucas can be seen immersing himself in the local culture of Northborough, Massachusetts. His interactions with the locals and the familiar environment highlight his deep-rooted connection to his hometown.
Filming at Oh Wow Frozen Yogurt and Smoothies
An interesting aspect of the video is that several scenes were shot at Lucas’ new venture, a frozen yogurt shop named Oh Wow Frozen Yogurt and Smoothies. The shop, filled with enthusiastic customers indulging in various treats, adds a personal touch to the video, reflecting Lucas’ entrepreneurial spirit.
Homage to Mac Miller
The essence of the track is encapsulated in its sampling of Mac Miller’s hit from 2011, “Donald Trump”. This serves as Lucas’ unique way of paying homage to his contemporary.
Lucas’ Connection with Miller’s Music
“The first time I ever heard Mac Miller was the Donald Trump record,” Joyner revealed in a statement. “Soon as I heard the sample and what he did to it, I immediately became a fan. That beat was one of my favorite samples ever. Me being able to use that sample and flip it my own way and pay homage to Mac Miller at the same time is dope.”
This statement highlights Lucas’ admiration for Miller’s work and how it influenced him as an artist.
Reflecting on His Journey
Lucas further added, “Reflecting back to when I was seventeen, it’s crazy to see that I’m making my childhood dreams come true. I’m just trying to inspire others through my music the same way Mac did.”
The Reception of “Seventeen”
“Seventeen” is the latest addition to Lucas’ much-awaited new album. The single follows the releases of “Broski,” “Cut U Off (feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again),” “What’s That?,” and “Devil’s Work Part 2.”
by Derrick T Lewis | May 12, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
It has been confirmed that Joyhttps://listen.tidal.com/album/291573064ner Lucas is currently working on the finishing touches to his upcoming LP, Not Now, I’m Busy, which will feature the Future-assisted “Devil’s Work Part 2” and “Blackout.” A new single has been released called “What’s That?,” an Leo Son, ADHD, and UNKWN production that provides listeners with an insight into the Massachusetts star’s lifestyle and wealth.
During 2020, Joyner Lucas released his debut album, ADHD, which included 18 songs together with features from Young Thug, Logic, Timbaland, Chris Brown, Fabolous, and King OSF. Upon its release, the album charted within the top 10 in the Billboard 200 chart and was certified as gold by the RIAA. In the same year, he released Evolution which featured contributions from Ashanti, The Game, Rick Ross, and more.
Kato On The Track, decorated beatsmith and frequent collaborator of Joyner Lucas, discussed Lucas’ creative process during an interview “Studio Sessions.”
“From what I can recall, he is more picky than other artists when it comes to his beats,” said Kato. He seems to have a pretty clear sense of what direction he would like to pursue. This is the reason why it takes him a few minutes to find that perfect sound. Once he hears it, however, he is certain of its existence. Clearly, he is an artist with a clear vision for his music.”
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