Kanye West - "The Glory" X "We Can Make It Better" (feat. Common, Q-Tip, Talib Kweli & Rhymefest)

Other songs such as "Stronger" and "Can't Tell Me Nothing" may get more attention, but "The Glory" has always been my favorite track off of Graduation.  The uptempo song pretty much speaks for itself.  With production that harkens back to older Kanye stylings with the sped-up sample of "Save The Country" by Laura Nyro backed by the soulful gospel choir, the song provides West with a background over which to best rhyme about his favorite subject--himself.  The uplifting, self-celebratory song sees the talented West begin to compare himself, not only to his peer group, but witnesses him vault to a level few reach in the genre.

Common Market - "Re-Fresh"

The first time that I heard this song, I was hooked.  Five years later, the blaring trumpets of Sabzi's instrumental and the smooth, effortless wordplay of RA Scion still serve as a beautiful reminder of why I first fell in love with Common Market's music.  The first track off of the group's self-titled debut album, the golden age sound of "Re-Fresh" sets the tone for what was likely my favorite album of 2005.  While the passing train at the beginning of the song alludes to the intro on Nas' groundbreaking Illmatic, the next fourteen tracks back up such lofty comparisons.

Nappy Roots - "Good Day" (feat. Gregg Street)

I picked this song because it has a similar feel to my previous post.  With the chorus of children and piano sample, "Good Day" provides a lighthearted backdrop to any summer soundtrack.  The lead song off of The Humdinger, this 2008 song is probably my favorite song by the Georgia/Kentucky/Oakland group Nappy Roots.  Enjoy.


Ma$e - "Welcome Back"

It's been quite a while since I posted and my summer internship/training/relaxing has admitidley led me to neglect the blog.  I apologize to everyone out there for my absence, and I'm trying to get back into the swing of posting (and have a lot of quality music to catch up on).

I figured this song would be applicable for this post.  I've never been a fan of Ma$e, but The Movement's production and sampling of the Welcome Back Kotter theme song on this track is undeniable.  The song served as the title track to the Harlem emcee's 2004 album, which represented Ma$e return to rap after a five-year absence for religious reasons.

So welcome back to old readers and hello to new followers.  I'm sorry for leaving, but I'm back and will be posting as often as my schedule allows.

Peace, Love, & Hip Hop,
WordIsBorn