We’re approaching the 4th quarter of 2019 and, man, it’s safe to say Rapsody dropped one of the year’s best projects with the liberation of EVE. And if we’re keeping it a buck, Rapsody didn’t have the 5th, 4th, 3rd or 2nd best album of the year. So I’ma let you do the math on that one…

I’m not shy about voicing my love of Rap – since the release of She Got Game in 2013, the Jamla-representative has been my favorite emcee. It has been nothing short of an absolute pleasure experiencing her growth as her reach increases and her talents – somehow – blossom to even greater peaks. And since we’re kicking it in 2019, you’re a damn fool if you keep on with the “female emcee” crap. Bar for bar, Rapsody can hang with the best of them, no matter what’s located between their legs. Recognizing my love of Rapsody, I’ll be the first to admit I’m biased in my views. But, fortunately, her talent and vast set of skills speaks for itself.

Rapsody has a long career ahead of her. And I have no doubt, when the dust settles, she’ll be universally recognized as one of the greatest to ever lace an instrumental. In the eyes of many, myself included, Rapsody is already top 5, dead or alive.

And, speaking for myself, she isn’t sitting in the 5, 4, 3 or 2 spots.

Now let’s get down to business. The EVE emcee recently linked with Vevo Ctrl in Brooklyn for a vibrant live performance of “Serena.” As she flows through the Eric G-produced joint, viewers will find themselves immersed in her energy – it’s a pure vibe, through and through. Peep the aura encompassing this Queen. There is a presence of confidence and self-love on display as she stands in her power – no need for superficial distractions; just a fierce lyricist controlling the elements with her immaculate prose.

What we get is Rapsody, paying homage to her inspirations while setting down the foundation for those who use her as their own inspiration. To discover and embrace this level of self-awareness and comfort is admirable. No label-designed image, no illusions – just Rapsody, a microphone, some top-shelf production and the energy to tie it all together. And then, when we get into what she is saying…my goodness! Rap has bars, layered wordplay, decadent cultural references and a flow that transcends this Earthly existence. How you gonna have so much depth to your lyrics!? If you like reading between the lines, digging for entendres and picking apart the deeper meaning behind the surface level expression, then I would highly recommend sitting with Rapsody’s catalogue.

Honestly, I could speak on Rap for days. She’s one of the special ones and it fills me up to know how extensive her audience has become. The dues have been paid and she’s still putting in the work to continue paying them. It’s not about “deserving” – everything Rapsody gets, she has earned. If you’re already a fan, peep this. If you haven’t listened to Rap yet, peep this. You’re in for a treat either way.

EVE is available now on all your favorite streaming platforms.

Press play below.