#PeepTheTape: Illa - 'Favor' - RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture

Photo by @Been __Illa

When it comes to music and the elements that surround it in it’s purest form, the Fillmore District in San Francisco, California is the furthest thing from a stranger. Known as a hot-spot for Jazz during the 1940’s and ’50s, even being dubbed as the “Harlem of the West,” Fillmore attracted many of the genres top stars around the time including Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and of course, the man of cool himself; John Coltrane. Now culminating in an annual Jazz festival that attracts people from all over the country, the city is still relevant as ever. Looking to keep that spirit alive, native Ari “Illa” Nicole drops off her souled-out new EP, The Favor.

The Favor EP, is Illa’s debut project, produced by Trackademicks. The songstress reflects on finding herself again after a turbulent relationship and discovering the beauty in it all. Her captivating vocals, tell the story of a lost lover, seeking salvation. Throughout her single, “I Remember“, Illa, showcases her vocal range on an uptempo track that’s reminiscent of classic Hip-Hop Soul, crooning over a love that’s playing games with her heart. In “Love Again“, Illa, flexes her range musically, incorporating a deep house rhythm to compliment her sultry vocals. “Coming Over“, a Jodeci-inspired track, also sheds light on some of her obvious influences, while giving Illa lane to shine.

Check out the brand new EP below and be sure to keep an eye out for Illa.