Bo-Jezzy

Bo Jeezy

What defines an emcee? Is it the voice accompanied by an immaculate flow? Could it be the mass production of similes, metaphors and punch lines that dazzle and amaze the listener? How about storytelling skills coupled with intelligent subject matter? When you combine all of these elements, you get a peak into the mind of one of present day Hip-Hop’s most prolific emcees, Bo Jeezy. His debut self-titled EP truly defines the term emcee as Bo crusades to bring intelligence back to Hip-Hop.

Bo Jeezy's intelligence and lyrical expertise are displayed right from the opening moments of the EP. The lead single, “Endangered” is a powerful, socially charged composition that issues a challenge to all men to be responsible for the families that they create. Bo’s disdain towards irresponsible fathers is prevalent as he states: “It’s sad, the situation that we present/Concentrating on getting hoes, while our women we forget/It’s bullshit! Please get your life in order/You’re a failure in life when you neglect your daughters.” Bo’s voluminous and direct approach offers guidance for fathers across the globe.

Bo Jeezy will continue to capture the ears and hearts of the audience with “Deeper Than You”. This simple but complex track gives insight to one of life’s most valuable lessons; be happy for what you have, because someone will always be worse off than what you are. Bo illustrates his premise by introducing the listener to Luke, a returning Iraq War veteran who is on the verge of a psychotic break due to Post Traumatic Stress. As the song progresses, Luke’s condition worsens. His debilitated mind state spreads like a cancer to his family, who are often the recipients of Luke’s chaotic actions. The lives of those closest to Luke begin to spiral out of control, resulting in a less than happy ending. Bo cements his argument on the song’s refrain by stating: “When you think your life is hard and you want to quit/There’s people in the world dealing with some deeper shit/The key to success is perseverance/Do you complain about your life or are you just being selfish?” The complexity of the track’s subject and the simplicity of its conveyance make this song an intellectual classic.

Bo emotes raw lyrical skill on the battle rhyme driven “Straight Spitin”. Bo puts on a lyrical clinic; utilizing a smorgasbord of punch lines and metaphors to deliver verbal haymakers to the jaws of opposing emcees. Social and political tracks such as “Impoverished America” and “Live to Prevail” communicate the struggles of the middle/lower class citizens across the nation. The self-titled EP showcases great collaborative efforts. On “Slow Down” Bo Jeezy is joined by fellow emcee Da Kyd as they trade tales of life altering experiences that both men have encountered. On “Abstract Wealth”, he connects with Australian emcee Madhatta, as they express their opinion on the definition of what wealth really is.

Intelligence, illustration, candor and consistency make Bo Jeezy’s debut effort a definite must have EP. His ability to paint vivid pictures and comprehensive expression will quench the thirst of even the most finicky fan. His distinct ability to convey his message without preaching to his audience will assist in his quest for musical longevity.

Skye P

3.9