RESPECT. The Artist: Worchester, MA's Joyner Lucas

Image credit: Atlantic Records

Back in June, Worchester, MA emcee Joyner Lucas delivered his big label debut 508-507-2209, an album that sees executive production from Toronto’s Boi-1da and appearances from the likes of (UK rising star) Stefflon Don and New Orleans legend Mystikal. Upon its release, loyal fans already knew what to expect: Lucas has the uncanny ability to create a cinematic, M. Night Shyamalan-esque songs — with accompanying visuals to match — at will, each one leaving the listener with so much to unpack that you’ll be working through your emotions for weeks on end with every additional listen. Case in point (from 2015’s Along Came Joyner):

If you don’t know this story, Lucas was able to recreate events that happened to then-17-year-old Ross Capicchioni in Detroit: a good kid, he was befriended by someone only to end up as a near-statistic from a gang initiation shooting. Since then, he’s continued to wow Hip-Hop and music fans (including Busta Rhymes, who collaborated on “Jumanji“) with his superhuman lyricism — examples include “Backwords,” “Say Hello To Adele,” and “I’m Sorry,” a new album cut about suicide that absolutely brings me to tears every time I press the play button:

With art like this, Joyner puts himself in the same category as Joe Budden, Nas, Kendrick Lamar and others who can evoke feelings with some of the most vivid tales (and introspective accounts) using some of the sickest, jaw-dropping bars heard in Hip-Hop this side of Eminem…period point blank, hands down. Before you ask: yes, he’ll destroy your favorite rapper’s beats, too.

Stream Joyner Lucas’ 508-507-2209 below, along with his latest clip for “Keep It 100.” In related news, to soon-to-be crown-bearer will be heading out on tour this Fall; you can get tickets and more info here.

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Posted By

Jon Powell

Currently working as Senior Editor of RESPECT. Magazine, I (Jon Powell) have 10 years experience in digital and print media -- this includes writing, photography and video editing production. I have worked extensively in Washington, D.C. and London, England and specialise in urban music and culture.