Music Today: A Dope Female Emcee, Tek of Smif N Wessun Goes Solo & Trek Life’s Milestone

Zane One’s Kingdom

A few weeks I literally discovered Zane One by accident while browsing a publicist’s catalog. This is the latest single from debut album L.A. Woman which is available for purchase HERE. It’s no secret that female emcees, let alone intelligent ones, have been extremely marginalized by the buying public in the last few years. Her lyrics address the challenges women face both in the mainstream and underground.

 “According to the underground you’re exploiting / The thing I’m restoring, you’re not supporting Hip-Hop’s been limpin’ along like she on morphine / And I’m not affording ’cause I’m not conforming.”

Smif N Wessun’s Tek Gets Help for Havoc and General Steele

General Steele of Smif N Wessun did his thing on the solo tip last year. Now it’s Tek’s turn. “Death Is Forever” will be available on Tek’s 24KT Mix CD dropping on August 24. This is not a typical Smif N Wessun joint, which is a good sign Tek’s solo effort will be distinct from his group projects.

Trek Life’s “I’d Rather Be”

Today Trek Life dropped his long-awaited sophomore album Everything Changed Nothing on vinyl and CD. Trek has been campaigning hard and is determined not to be hit by the “sophomore jinx” that’s plagued so many artists.

 “This is an overwhelmingly important release for me,” he said. “Sophomore albums are what make and break an artist for the rest of their career.”

The album was released digitally already through iTunes, but is now available at bestbuy.com, amazon.com and emusic.com. Physical copies can be picked up at FYE, Amoeba, Fat Beats and UGHH.

This latest free offering is produced by regular collaborator Oddisee. After the link those in California can check out this two album release parties being held later in the week.

Trek Life “I’d Rather Be” Streaming Link

Thursday 8/12
Red C Lounge
756 5th Ave
San Diego, CA
21+

Friday 8/13
FatBeats LA In-store
7600 Melrose Ave Suite J
Los Angeles, CA
7:00pm