I’m not sure what stimulated the ongoing ranking of emerging rap talent in my head as of late—perhaps XXL‘s Freshmen list is to thank (or blame). In any case, as I run through a list of my most treasured up-and-coming emcees, I am still almost startled by the number of Chicago rappers present. At this point calling to attention the Windy City’s pool of top tier acts borders cliche territory, and yet the truth is the truth.
Pivot Gang representer and deft rhymer Saba is one of the perceptively newer additions to the Chi’s roster of skilled rookies; after releasing a string of well-received singles (“401K”; “Burnout”), he once more seduced our ears just days ago with “Butter”, a track defined by its (fittingly) smooth vocals and multilayered backdrop. Featured songstress Jamila, guitarist Jameson Brenner and keyboardist Doug Jones allow for the song to fully flourish. The nostalgia is nearly breathable on this one; each atmospheric, distorted string note rings out like a ripple effect, taking your mind back to the past as it travels.
“You worried ’bout the wrong things, ‘cuz money can’t buy you love”
Stream the audible slice of summer that is “Butter” below. Follow Saba on Twitter and ready yourself for his forthcoming free album, COMFORTzone, which drops Jul. 15.