The Unknown Rapper
Jgivens is a rapper who could be considered an outcast. He was on a fairly well-known Christian rap label before becoming independent. He may be an outcast, but his last album, Domino, is amazing. It was crowdfunded although it doesn’t show it.
Domino feels professional. Despite its low budget, the production sounds smooth and has a vibe of togetherness. Those who are familiar with Jgiven’s music know that his lyrics are deep and wordy. His word play and allegories are amazing on this album. He tells stories through his music, including about his rocky relationship with God, the people in his life and his former record label. His stories have a happy vibe. However, his lyrics speak to deeper issues such as current affairs, race relations, politics and religion.
The features on this album have the supporting role. They do not overtake the main focus of the album. The features work in a similar way to those on Ventura, one of the other albums I received. The features are mostly done by other rappers, however there is a standout RnB singer on the record. This collaboration is one that fans have waited for and love. The feature is Cousin Neighbor, which is the name of the combined forces of Jgivens and his cousin John Gives. These two voices and styles work perfectly together as John Gives supports his cousin by singing the bridge and Jgivens raps in his lyrical style. This beautiful and powerful combo provides something that you didn’t know you needed. Jgivens went from being on a Christian label to being independent and I would say it was to his benefit. This album’s quality was not affected by him being independent. He showed ingenuity and diversity of lyrics and production. This album is an amazing independent rap album about spirituality, family and social matters, all told in an amazing story.
TJ Pittinger is a freshman studying theology.