CEDTalks

Hov for President...too soon? Earlier this morning, the world and Black Twitter stood on end as we received  4:44 , the 13th studio album release from hip-hop legend and business...man Jay Z. As done with his last release, "Hova" caused a stir with initial stipulations to obtain his album, requiring a subscription to Tidal and/or phone subscription to Sprint to stream immediately. This was of little concern, however, as fans turned into military strategists working to gain access to the album. As evidenced by the initial coverage by both social media and traditional media, 4:44 is a nother example of a conscious, thought-provoking album setting the music world ablaze. Following the recent leads of Kendrick Lamar's DAMN (and To Pimp a Butterfly ) and A Seat at the Table from sister in law Solange Knowles, Jay tackles socioeconomic, cultural, and even personal battles and creates what all initial signs show as a commercial and intellectual success. Whichever nick...

Renaissance Music artist Ruff Trenton-born rapper Ruff provides listeners a relaxed, easy going affair with his debut EP titled "Smoove Sail". The EP offers a unique perspective as the project discusses relatable subjects such as economic struggle and relationships through a calm and unwavering approach. During "Smoove Sail", Ruff combats the rough waters of our existence with a poker face, inspiring its listeners to address their respective with the same unconquerable attitude.  On "Smoove Sail" Ruff, the Wesley College senior and Kappa Alpha Psi member, couples captivating lyrics with a smooth delivery and a voice synonymous with his name and the result is a relaxed voyage through life’s various circumstances. In the lead single “Bottle Wraps” featuring label mate Johnny Quest, he emphasizes the importance of celebrating life, while on the captivating track “Reminisce”, Ruff channels classic hip hop tales of the 90s and embraces his upbringing...

Talib Kweli decodes the classic anthem "Get By" from his 2002 album, Quality, explaining the influence of JAY Z's "I Just Wanna Love You" and The Beatles in the writing of the record.