This post was going to be titled, "Introducing: Willie Brown" but the man doesn't really need an introduction. A standard on the landscape of Los Angeles-based artists, Brown's deep affiliation with the Black Hippy crew and Top Dawg Entertainment has added significant leverage to his title as a producer — though he his talents as a composer, rapper and lyricist ought to be recognized as well. At least in the realm of production, Brown has rendered a distinct style for himself by deftly incorporating laid-back, tempered beats, complimentary of his West Coast background, adding in everything from film scores to jazz instrumentals.
As seen in his work on Kendrick Lamar's "Poe Man Dreams", which remains grounded despite it's ethereal feel, or Schoolboy Q's "Gangsta in Design", featuring what appears to be a drumline, Brown is drawing from a range of influences with the precision and foresight to make his work palatable to the ear. Folks like Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, Busta Rhymes and Big Pooh have all recognized this trait in him. On Tuesday, Brown came out with his highly anticipated 20-track album entitled Ichiban: Sound in 3D, a solid addition to his growing repertoire. As if you need any convincing to buy the album, stream the track "Wild Wild Rock" below, to get you started.
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