Written by: Julz Mancini
When we think about today’s music industry it is apparent that it has changed drastically over the years. With the introduction of social media, an artist’s ability to remain independent, and forever evolving sound and presentation of music, many forget about the fundamentals of hip-hop. Although many of today’s artists sound alike, if we listen attentively, we can still pinpoint the utilization of primary techniques initially developed during the boom bap era. There are still rappers, however, whom remain true to the boom bap foundation, instilling strong messages into the minds of their listeners. Many of you reading this may not hear of these artists and I feel it is my duty and honor to bring them into the spotlight, ensuring they do not go unnoticed. Lyricism, word play, extended metaphors, samples…all imperative traits of a true hip-hop artist. Dave Majesty is a hip-hop artist whom puts his heart and soul into his music ensuring that he leaves his listeners in deep thought.
Dave Majesty had a pure love for hip-hop at an early age. Being located in places like New Jersey and New York, Dave was constantly surrounded by the culture. With persistence, consistency, and talent, Dave has made a name for himself as an artist whom remains true to Boom Bap. Working with lyricists such as, Royal Flush, Miilkbone, DooWop, and Jus-One to name a few, Dave Majesty has developed his album “Born Official”.
Dave Majesty introduces his album with the perfect overview which includes different samples and scratching giving the listener a taste of his style. Following the intro, the listener is met with the song, “Friends” featuring artists Miilkbone and Royal Flush. “Friends” discusses the realities of their lives, portraying the importance of remaining cautious of whom they keep close to them. The track also touches on political and socioeconomic issues in which we are all affected by.
“It’s all hypocrisy. Democracy’s a mockery, from government rapes and robberies that keeps us all in poverty.”
Royal Flush and Miilkbone certainly add depth to “Friends” as their seasoned abilities enhance the dynamic of the song.
“I pay a lawyer and judge to beat the institution. You leaving stripping on poles to credit card boosting. You gotta jump shot to sell rocks. Whatever you do, you gotta dodge cops.”
“My best friend’s 11; nothing less than a blessing. The exception, he ain’t have a real life lesson.”
There are a plethora of gems and lessons within this song. The artists’ delivery and story-telling combined with pure lyricism, keeps the listener on their toes as they await the next line. “Friends” is definitely a personal favorite within Dave Majesty’s album, “Born Official”.
As I streamed “Born Official”, I came across the song titled, “Living in Reality” featuring Jus One. This song was captivating from the very beginning, expressing the struggle and actualities of a hard life. With excerpts and samples displayed throughout the track, the listener can hear politicians, media, and celebrities perfectly detailing the realities we are currently facing. Dave Majesty touches the listener’s soul from the first lyrics he spits.
“Dear mom and dad, I’m writing you this letter because I’m stressing. Did you ever really think about your children is the question. I wasn’t there when God became your adversary. Everything about your evil ways became hereditary.”
Starting the song with these lines immediately introduces the listener to the hardships Dave Majesty has been faced with. It is lyrics such as these that, not only lure in the audience, but also allow them to reflect on their own lives further proving that Dave conveys strong messages within his music.
“Goodbye Sis” featuring Ashley Cox relays a heartfelt vibe as the listener can hear a guitar in addition to the soft and beautiful vocals of the songstress. Experiencing the loss of someone close to him, Dave Majesty pours his heart out in this song. Music such as this is a necessity due to its ability to assist the listener in reminiscing and coping with a loss they have experienced also.
“As long as I am alive and breathing, you’ll always be in my memory.”
During my journey through, “Born Official”, I was happy to come across “The Way I Spit It” featuring Doo Wop. This track is a prime example of both artists’ lyrical ability. From line to line, I was captivated by their presence, delivery, and talent.
“I’m calm, collected. My craft is well respected. I bring the pain with so much energy when it’s injected.”
Dave Majesty’s confidence enlightens and excites the listener as they embrace his lyrics. The title of this track is a flawless explanation of the content. Doo Wop certainly adds a vigorous feel to the song as he shouts out Dave Majesty and himself during the beginning of “The Way I Spit It”; another favorite for sure.
When we reflect on music during the 90’s and early 2000’s, hip-hop and R&B were an immaculate partnership, enhancing the vibe of both genres. Dave Majesty included the voice of Anna Peterson in his song, “Show Me The Way”, inviting the listener into the partnership in which many of us miss dearly. The listener can hear Anna sing, “Lord if you could show me a sign, then I will follow it”. This song reveals a sense of loss and purpose while trudging through the mud yearning to find your way in addition to revealing the fraudulence of those whom surround you.
“Some people artificial when the human mind strictly superficial. Their words be cutting through your skin tissue.”
It is with great excitement and relief, that I share Dave Majesty’s “Born Official” with the reader. The project is filled with crucial components in which typically deems an album a success. Well-known features, skits, samples, and true lyricism all coincide astoundingly to take listeners on an adventure through the mind of Dave Majesty. I am a firm believer that music is medicine; not only to the listeners but to the artist as well. To have the ability to create music is a pure gift. To have the ability to share it without fear of the unknown is pure strength and courage.
Be sure to check out Dave Majesty on all platforms! Click on the links below!
