Reviews

Review: “Made It Now” by Cuban Doll

Published

7 years ago

October 24, 2017

Weasel

Listening to Cuban Doll’s “Made It Now” created one of the most interesting reviewing experiences I’ve had in my life. Over the course of repeated listens, I’ve changed my opinion about the song three times now – make that four. It’s an intriguing listen that isn’t immediately digestible, but through examination of what it entails, and the characterization of Cuban Doll, it turns into a solid listen that hints at growth for the future.

You know Cuban Doll – we all do. She’s the rapper/model with that femme fatale smile and street gravitas to match,. She’s also a rapper’s rapper, whatever that means. We coined the term out of sheer emotion. She can rap her ass of without any stylistic gimmicks or claims to fame. People like to knock female rappers for being only good as other female rappers but that’s not true in the slightest. Cuban Doll, in particular, can go bar for bar with some of Detroit’s best. With the proper time and training, she’ll improve and could perhaps compete for Nicki Minaj’s spot. But right now, she’s working hard and enjoying her newfound success, evident in “Made It Now.”

The track itself, after repeated listens, sounds to be very polarizing. On one hand, it’s a fast-paced entry of Narcissistic notation that borders on annoying, while on the other, it’s a song that oozes rightfully-earned self-confidence amidst a frantic backdrop of hectic production. On the first couple of listens, the former opinion was one that I held. After having time to sit with the track, I believe I now fall in the secondary category.

For starters, the subject matter isn’t anything new to rap music – it’s about her self-confidence in the rap game now that she’s “made it” – but here it comes across as initially arrogant. She says everything matter-of-factly and to the untrained ear it can be annoying. But when taking into account how old she is, the success she’s seen, and the work that she’s put in, the raps sound better and are more digestible. It also makes the character that she portrays on the song, one that’s started trends that these rappers are following, easier to understand and root for.

Production on the track is also on the lackluster side, being pretty bare bones but serviceable. Cuban Doll brings some of her best bars to date on this track. But as usual with her, it’s not so much what she says, but how she says it. Her killer delivery sells the raps at a level that may not have worked if someone with lesser talent attempted the same thing.

In the end…it works. It takes some time to get acclimated to Doll’s character and stylistic choices but once that’s finished the track takes on a new light. While it’s not the best track to come out this year, it’s still a solid listen that deserves a chance to be heard. See what Cuban Doll has to say about the new things in her life and the trends she started.

Check out “Made It Now” below.

Related Topics:Cuban Doll features Reviews

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Artist To Watch

J.R.Clark’s new album ‘All Business, No Luv’ is out now

Published

2 months ago

October 25, 2024

Weasel

Virginia’s J.R.Clark’s got a new album for the streets. Check out All Business, No Luv — a collection of hard-hitting tracks that capture the spirit of the state’s rap dominance.

Inspired by artists like Rick Ross and J. Cole, J.R.Clark’s style is smooth and easy to listen to. The album is something you’ll want to throw when you’re in the car headed to your daily commute — or the soundtrack to your drive to, and from, a weekend function. You’ll vibe to the lyrics and nod to the beat. It’s worth the listen.

J.R.Clark started off as a studio engineer in Virginia. He transitioned to become an in-demand artist and his growing fanbase reflects that he made the right decision. Tune in to his new album and become a fan.

Check out the videos that have been released from the project too on J.R.Clark’s official YouTube channel.

MixTapes

Ca$hedoutkari’s “The Golden Child”: A West Coast Revelation

Published

4 months ago

August 11, 2024

Kalisha Perera

Lets dive into the melodic universe of one of the West Coast’s brightest rising stars: Ca$hedOut Kari. His latest 10-track album, “The Golden Child,” is not just another drop in the hip-hop and rap ocean. It’s a sonic journey that immerses you in Kari’s intentional sound and leaves you craving more.

From the moment you hit play, you’re transported into a world where catchy beats meet deep introspection. Just take a listen to “No Love” featuring Nef The Pharaoh; it’s a rollercoaster of infectious hooks and raw storytelling that’ll have you hitting the repeat button. And when Nef The Pharaoh jumps in, the track reaches a whole new level of sonic bliss. Trust us, this is the vibe fans have been hungering for.

But hey, the party doesn’t stop there. “SRT & AMG” is a showcase of Kari’s versatile artistry, dripping with swagger and confidence that’s impossible to ignore. And “RedRum”? It’s a captivating narrative told through an irresistible groove that’s bound to get under your skin in the best way possible.

Let’s talk production value, because “The Golden Child” doesn’t hold back in that department either. With heavyweights like FBEAT, RTBWEST, and ProdbyPimpin on board, the album delivers a seamless and polished sonic experience that elevates Kari’s musical vision to greater heights.

And as if we needed more proof that Ca$hedOut Kari is here to stay, “The Golden Child” serves as a resounding declaration of his talent and potential. This album isn’t just a musical journey; it’s a statement of pure artistry and a glimpse into the boundless future of a rising star.

So, why are you still reading this? Go ahead, indulge yourself in the musical magic of “The Golden Child” below. Ca$hedOut Kari is on the ascent, and you don’t want to miss this ride!

Check it out below.

Reviews

Unleashing Emotions Through Music: YHG Pnut’s ‘Forever Up’ Reviewed

Published

6 months ago

June 8, 2024

Kalisha Perera

In “Forever Up,” YHG Pnut channels his personal struggles and triumphs into a captivating musical journey. With a blend of introspective lyrics and infectious beats, this project showcases Pnut’s ability to connect with his audience on a deep and emotional level. Discover the emotional depth and musical ingenuity of “Forever Up” in this review.

YHG Pnut has steadily built a strong reputation through his collaborations and his hit single “Change Lanes,” which has garnered over 500K streams across all platforms. His roots in hip-hop and inspiration from the likes of Lil Wayne, 2Pac, Biggie Smalls, 50Cent, Eminem, and Don Diego have deeply influenced his musical journey. The soundtrack of his childhood and the influence of his mother, who was already deeply embedded in the world of hip-hop, have set the stage for Pnut’s entrance into the industry.

“Forever Up” marks Pnut’s growth since his arrival in the industry in June 2019 with his EP “All Bets On Me.” This project features collaborations with only one artist, Mac J, and showcases the diverse talent of producers including Foolie, Afrodisiac, LilO, JakobJohn, 22Diegs, MissU, LOZR, and Skies.

Pnut highlights the tracks “Bounce”, “Felon”, and “So Paid” as must-listens for new fans to witness his growth and prowess in the hip-hop genre over the past few years. The release of “Bounce,” a music video preceding the project’s official release, is a testament to his commitment to providing a visual dimension to his music.

The visuals are poised to captivate his audience, drawing them into his world and experiences. This commitment to storytelling and visual representation is a testament to Pnut’s multifaceted approach to his art.

“Forever Up” is available for listening on various platforms and the music video for “Bounce” is already making waves on YouTube. Pnut’s ability to connect with his audience on a personal level and his dedication to his craft are evident throughout this project.

Listen Here.