In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary underground hip-hop, where artists often blur the lines between musical expression and sociopolitical commentary, Conway The Machine, a luminary in the new wave of underground hip-hop, who’s been unflinchingly addressing the gritty realities of street life, joins forces with UK producer Baby J (known for his work with artists like Mark Ronson, Dead Prez, Iman Thug, and Shabazz The Disciple of Wu-Tang), along with the MC NE$$, who was once featured in The Source’s prestigious ‘Unsigned Hype.’
Their latest single, “Stripper Money,” serves as a glimpse into their forthcoming collaborative album, ‘The Price of Bread,’ scheduled for release on October 27th. This track delves deep into the cyclical nature of money and how it often entraps us. While we all hustle to get ahead, we frequently find ourselves exploiting one another without making any real progress in a game that seems designed for our failure.
Exploring themes of capitalism and all that encompasses it, the album casts a spotlight on the question, ‘What is the Price of Bread?’. It features a slew of talented artists, including Boca Chika, Fat Tony, Rukus, Octavia, Life Life, and many more.
Baby J and NE$$ have already graced us with ‘Stick Up Kids’ and ‘Illegal Business,’ featuring Coach NYM & Rukus. “Stick Up Kids” transcends being just a song; it’s a haunting exploration of abject poverty through the eyes of a child growing up in the so-called “First world.” It uncovers layers of societal neglect and exposes how circumstances can mold individuals into reluctant participants in the shadowy theater of “street life.” This track is a poignant reminder of the intricate dance between adversity and identity, often leading down unexpected, perilous paths.
Meanwhile, ‘Illegal Business’ is a powerful sonic manifesto inspired by the KRS-One/BDP classic of the same name. With the distinctive voice of UK rapper Rukus on the chorus, this track emerges as a striking commentary on ‘The Trap’ and the systemic injustices deeply woven into the fabric of America.
It’s a vivid narrative that dives headfirst into the heart of America and the UK’s systemic issues. NE$$ and Coach NYM, with Baby J’s production wizardry, use their verses as potent tools for social critique, exposing the struggles faced by marginalized communities and leaving listeners with a profound sense of empathy and introspection.
In the true spirit of hip-hop as a conduit for storytelling and societal reflection, “Stripper Money” is a stark reminder that the fight continues, and music, as a vehicle for change, remains as potent as ever.
