With all of hip-hop’s globalization and commercialism, some MCs still identify with the culture through the memories of Run-DMC, Boogie Down Productions and the like. New Jersey born and California raised Raashan Ahmad’s debut solo album “The Push” is rooted in the musical tradition of his predecessors. 

The vintage boom-bap sound and turntable scratches on “Hello” produce a head-nodding beat sure to connect with b-boys. Longing to see the art form return to its former days, he raps on the aforementioned song: “can we get a real hip-hop show, where people dance to the music not just watch the flow; where the bouncers don’t ego trip, DJ spin B-sides, and brown people support the vibe.” Knocking drums and breezy horns lead the charge on the jazzy and soulfully encouraging “If I.” Even with Rashaan Ahmad’s positive temperament, he writes how “The Weight” and pressure of life can be rather stressful. Paying homage to the past, “The Crush” is a tribute to the pioneering rap artists that came before him, while “Give Thanks” expresses his gratitude for the meaningful things in life. 

Since hip-hop has given Raashan Ahmad much to appreciate, “The Push” is his way of giving back. 

Label: Om Records

Genre: Rap/Hip-Hop