RESPECT. Interview: TDE's Reason Talks Debut Album 'New Beginnings' + Current State Of Hip-Hop + Working With Rapsody

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Top Dawg Entertainment’s, Reason recently released his debut album ‘New Beginnings’. He gives us his raw talent and lyricism through every bar it’s clear that what you see is what you get with this dude. As the project’s title suggests, it marks the start of a new chapter for the lyrical wordsmith, as he aims to solidify his status in the West Coast rap scene, using his music as a therapeutic release of emotions. Whether it’s speaking on adapting to the major label system, or leaving a toxic relationship behind, REASON spits with conviction, showcasing his lyrical ability as he details this newfound state of self enlightenment.

With tracks like “Show Stop” (ft adlibs from the legendary Kendrick Lamar), “Flick It Up” feat. Ab-Soul, “Pop Shit” feat. ScHoolboy Q, and “Sauce” ft Vince Staples, there’s plenty to be bumping in your speakers. He also delivers a banger, with “Extinct,” which features a rare verse from fellow label-mate, Isaiah Rashad, and close friend and Dreamville member, JID. There’s also “I Can Make It” featuring North Carolina’s own, Rapsody, who REASON has cited as one his favorite artists in the game right now.

We got a chance to catch-up with TDE’s Reason to talk his debut album, working with Rapsody + JID, current state of hip-hop, who he would like to work with in the future + much more. Get into the interview from the audio below.

Interview Highlights:

– This is his debut full-length with TDE, as 2018’s ‘There You Have It’ was a re-release

– The song “Fall” is one of his favorite songs, and illustrates the double standard that women are presented with in the music industry

– The song “Extinct” ft. Isaiah Rashad and JID is one for the fans, giving people a chance to not only hear a verse from the elusive Isaiah Rashad, but a track with three lyricists at the top of their game

– This is the first full-length project from TDE this year

– REASON is stoked on having Rapsody on the project, he’s cited her as a “big sister” figure in the past and is his favorite female MC.