Year upon year SXSW has increasingly become the making of many an artist; in its wake the festival has continuously produced a smorgasbord of memorable footage, tracks and performances – thankfully, this year has been no different.
Raz Simone may not yet be a name that triggers common recognition throughout the Hip-Hop community, but if he continues to produce tracks like “Natural Resources” then he is likely to gain a following proportionate to the immense talent displayed on this track. The inclusion of sound bites from Kanye West’s now infamous interview with Radio 1’s Zane Lowe – particularly Kanye’s Godly self proclamation and perspectives on race – seem to have resonated with Simone and as such, set a powerfully pensive tone that runs throughout: ‘This time the revolution shall be televised, just not broadcasted live’.
The tracks potency certainly lies in its reflection; it’s an introspective look at how racism, classism and religion have affected him on a personal level – he then goes onto widen the lens and define their bearing on the modern world and media. The video for the track is comprised of footage from his recent stint at SXSW and has a great interactive feel as you see Simone performing to fans on a very personal level – perhaps most surprising is the random cameo from WWE legend “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, who introduces Simone onto the stage.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwRdOmA_ZmY[/youtube]
If it’s not already clear from this track, the Seattle rapper has a distinct ability to communicate his inner workings on a level that will be sure tap into a deeper consciousness of many who will listen. You can hear the track below and also stream his outstanding self-produced LP Cognitive Dissonance via. his Soundcloud.
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