Don’t get me wrong, i’m definitely not an expert when it comes to hip hop, I just know what I like. But I do feel like there are too many people out there with a drum machine, computer, and karaoke system calling themselves rappers. Think about the last time you were in San Francisco, New York, or downtown LA. How many people tried to sell you their “mixtape”?
So needless to say, when the artist i’m featuring today contacted me, I was a little hesitant to feature him. But like our parents and teachers always told us, “don’t judge a book by it’s cover”.
IMPRINT is a hip hop artist from Seal Beach, CA (probably my favorite city in Southern California!) and is definitely on the rise. I was lucky enough to preview his debut album, The First Impression, and I’m looking forward to the full release. He’s a talented lyricist and the production is crisp. There’s a definite passion and energy in his music and i’m guessing it has to do with his experiences.
A guy who completely lost his life to drugs, he was consumed by his heroin addiction and in and out of jail. Facing serious prison time, the Lord saved him (sober since March 18, 2008!) and he’s been able to use his music as an outlet and to inspire those that are losing hope in their own battles with drugs. He’s a prime example that you can make it from less than nothing to living a happy life and making a difference.
The First Impression is tentatively set to be released January 1, 2011, and is fully produced by The Optimist. It also features Matt Embree (RX Bandits) as co-producer, along with Maylay Sage, Vital Emcee, and Lauren Coleman.
Listen to tracks, live dates, and more IMPRINT here.