Today, the popular rappers from the early 2010s are fighting for relevance. Drake’s longevity is the exception, with his ability to recognize new trends and artists essential to his lasting success. An artists’ inability to adapt can quickly tarnish their reputation, especially with social media playing a growing role in their perception.
Increasingly, listeners demand artists showcase “growth” or a new element to their artistry with every release. 4:44 drew applause for its vulnerability that drastically contrasted Jay-Z’s usual braggadocious style. Stagnation is often confused with consistency, with none being more steady than Curren$y.
After unsuccessful stints at Cash Money and Def Jam, the New Orleans rapper revived his career through persistent mixtapes. He grew a cult following with his nonchalant delivery, and equally casual lyrical topics. Curren$y thrives in the trivial, rapping about cars, shoes, and old movies.
Curren$y collaborates with California producer Alchemist on his latest mixtape Continuance. The two first joined forces in 2011 with their collaborative mixtape Covert Coup, which blended Curren$y’s chill ethos with Alchemist’s sonic beat-making.
Throughout Continuance, Alchemist sets Curren$y up for success with minimalist beats that complement his relaxed flow. “Reese’s Cup” begins with an enticing piano solo layered over a faded precision arrangement. Curren$y opts for brevity by rapping for less than 50 seconds. He avoids excess to leave you wanting more but gives you enough depth to leave you satisfied.
Curren$y hasn’t changed since I first listened to him a decade ago. He was the leader of the “rapper-weed” movement that never took things too seriously. His adored status among smokers often made his ability as a rapper go under-appreciated. His artistry relies on his storytelling, shying away from the fantastical in favor of real-life experiences. He offers a level of honesty that is increasingly missing from rappers today.
Rap is better because of Curren$y. He built a community for teenagers like me to embrace our curiosities and quirks. Curren$y wasn’t afraid to be himself, rapping at length about his favorite movies or his affinity for fast-food drive-thrus. He has gradually gotten more personal, exploring the mortality of his contemporaries in rap. Curren$y is conflicted between his love for New Orleans and the awareness that most rappers are killed in their hometowns.
Curren$y refreshingly raps from the place of an observer, constantly listening and watching his surroundings. He mixes the good with the bad, dropping clever one-liners and life lessons along the way. Continuance showcases Curren$y’s unchanged style isn’t a reflection of his inability to grow but supreme confidence and belief in his artistry.
