Review of WAYSIDE
Rap also has a stigma around it. Many people imagine sex, drugs and criminal activity when they think of the rap industry. I don’t see it that way. I grew up with in poverty in a rough neighbourhood and saw rap as a source of encouragement. Individuals like Eminem have terrible songs, that I can’t relate to. Yet, they also have songs like “Sing for the Moment” that remind young people that they are going to be doubted, but its important to prove those people wrong.
I discovered Ekoh in 2017 when he released his album “Along the Way”. I saw one of his freestyle songs on Facebook, and his song “Daudrie” was picking up a lot of traction. My favourite song from that album has been “Along the Way”, as he talks about finding himself along this rap journey and sharing his passion. I’ve followed him ever since, and have found each album to be a depiction of different chapters of his life. There is a sense of pride I feel knowing that I listened and loved rappers like NF, Russ, Ekoh, Vin Jay, and Luke Gawne early on in their careers.
Wayside describes the challenges creators have seeing the light or positivity. For those who don’t know, people really enjoy hearing the challenges rappers are facing. We as fans love hearing the adversity they are facing. This forces them to reflect a lot on the obstacles they have faced, and focus on the dark rather than the light. Ekoh goes on to ask the question what the rapper does if he didn’t have adversity or darkness in their life? What would the rapper talk about? If your identity is someone plagued by darkness, and you get better - are you that person anymore?
I really love how Ekoh markets his music, he made a post on Instagram reacting to Loveless’ part in the song - and it just reminds you the artist created this work. They put their heart, energy and passion into making a song that means something. I found that part particularly touching.
It’s tough… we as fans almost don’t want the creators we love to get better, in that way we are selfish. I really enjoyed the song, but felt a bit of guilt at the same time.
