RAP'S ENIGMATIC COOL KID

Source: Sugarmilkk on IG

Over the years, hip-hop has proved itself to be a genre that is constantly changing, one in which artists of all types have managed to thrive. As times change, so does the music as well as the artists who produce it. Few rappers are able to properly navigate this turbulent landscape; Sir Michael Rocks is one of them.

The Matteson, Illinois born rapper has been in the music industry for quite some time. Sir Michael Rocks (AKA Mikey Rocks) is one half of the duo, "The Cool Kids" along with rapper/producer Chuck Inglish. The Cool Kids were a prominent force in the late 2000s and early 2010s, known for their retro style, unique taste, and flashy lyrics. Many trends created by these two over the years have become instrumental to many rappers' personas to this day. Through the years we've also seen several solo projects from Mikey as well as a Cool Kids breakup (and reunion).

Since the release of his first major solo album, “Banco”, Mikey’s musical approach has become increasingly experimental with each project. As with any artist who explores different styles in their music, a division among his fanbase was created. Some fans, such as myself, enjoy his newer approach showcased on hits such as "How Are You So Calm" and "Come Outside" (The latter of which features footwork-inspired production paired with a Resident Evil sample). There are also fans who miss “the old” Mikey and aren’t amused by the obscurity of his newer music, which the artist is certainly aware of.

Mikey Rock's latest album, "Broken Window of Opportunity" shows fans and doubters alike that he still hasn't lost a step after all these years. Spanning across 13 tracks, the album features a flow more refined than ever along with production that older Mikey fans will appreciate. The obscure production, flows, and lyrics fans have come to know in recent years have been put on hold (though hopefully not for good).

In the opening track, "Open The Vault", Mikey gives some pointers to younger rappers on how to get rich, handle beef, and get the girl. Here we see Mikey, who certainly isn't oblivious to his influence in rap music, embraces his big brother role while subtly acknowledging his legend status in the rap game despite not always appearing in the limelight.

"Sometimes I feel idle when honestly I'm idolized. How you gon' tell me I feel entitled when the title's mine?"

This sets the tone of the rest of the album, which serves as both a reflection on his life and career as well as a how-to manual for today's up-and-coming rappers. The track "Ice Skate" features Mikey detailing the passing of his mother as well as his status in the rap game. He raps, "sometimes I feel idle when honestly I'm idolized. How you gon' tell me I feel entitled when the title's mine?". Mikey's career trajectory may not have played out exactly like he thought it would, which would cause anyone to have doubts. Despite that, he also realizes his music and influence have shaped the genre today and earned him a spot in the hip-hop history books. This is a role we see Mikey embrace throughout the album.

In the following track "Can't Call It", Mikey recounts his failed rapper friendships, an all too familiar tale of the ingenuine, parasite-like relationships musicians experience. It's clear Mikey has some frustrations about the music industry, the very same industry that has emulated a style he created with little credit to him.

In spite of all the trials and tribulations, Mikey hasn't stopped working for a second. In 2019, he announced his new collaborative project, "Mystery School" along with fellow producer/Cool Kids Dj Owen Bones. Though the duo does create music, (which features Mikey as experimental as ever) Mystery School is much more than that. Mystery School has dubbed itself as "the first late night show on Twitch" which is where the two discuss buzz-worthy news, interview guests and interact with viewers in ways such as creating beats and verses live for the viewers to be apart of. The streams are filled with fans of Mikey who are appreciative not only of the music but Mikey's dedication to interacting with his audience through as many communication channels as possible.

Released at the top of January 2020, "Broken Window of Opportunity" feels like a statement, to fans and haters alike. The album is just as introspective as it is informative, along with the usual lavish talk that we've come to expect from Mikey. As if it wasn't already clear, Mikey Rocks is a man of the people and he wants us to know that he isn't going anywhere anytime soon. For Sir Michael Rocks, the window of opportunity is never closed; It's broken.

Stream "Broken Window of Opportunity" Below: