ReviewSTACKS.com – Rap reviews, features and commentary

“You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain.” How did a quote from the Dark Knight end up in this rap review? Well as I sit and think about the Smile, the EP by A.K.A. , I think about the mountain that he has erected for himself to overcome with this first project. I think about the classic debut albums which we have seen in the game before this one that go on to represent an artist throughout his career as the unrepeatable height of their greatness. The passion, hunger, and connectedness to the artists roots that is present on albums like Doggystyle, Reasonable Doubt, Only Built for Cuban Linx, The Documentary, and the revered Illmatic come to mind when listening to this power-packed project set to be released on May 23^rd. With that said, the biggest question that remains is whether this artist will be able to repeat this offering the next time around. Read more…

We sat down with Michigan’s own AKA, for a few questions on his motivation to rap, who he looks up to and where the game is going.

What brought you into rap?

I’ve been into poetry and music my whole life. I started with freestyling and became real good at that; writing was always easy. Hip-hop made me who I am.

What’s it take to be an emcee from your town?

Same thing it takes everywhere: swag, skill, voice and content. Around here you also gotta be a beast on stage and have soul. Connects and support help too. Read more…