Nov 12 2009
Artist Profile: Immortal Technique
There isn’t another rapper in the game right now more real, raw, honest, or revolutionary than Immortal Technique. He is the epitome of a true artist who has never compromised his integrity, a difficult task to maintain in the cut throat music business. He had previously been offered deals by Sony and Def Jam, but turned them both down stating that he “wanted control of his own music.” This is a stand rarely if ever taken by rappers who eventually become completely controlled by the labels that own their music.
Immortal Technique’s lyrics primarily focus on issues such as poverty, racism, politics, religion and social class. For an MC attempting to reach audiences with lyrics that greatly differ from the average topics in Hip Hop, his verses expressing deep insight on many social issues are a welcome change. What separates Immortal Technique from other artists typically known as “political” or “conscious” rappers is his fearlessness to speak on issues considered taboo in the main stream. On the track “Bin Laden“, Technique delves into America’s involvement in affairs of the Middle East and touches on theories on the 9/11 attacks. He has the freedom to speak his mind without worrying about corporate sponsors or label demands. Immortal Technique address other topics of relevance by storytelling with intrinsic themes in poverty and social class. The song “Dance with the Devil” tells the story of young man’s aspirations to rise from impoverishment while dealing with the many obstacles associated with hood life.
Fans of Hip Hop who are interested in thought provoking music will enjoy the collection that Immortal Technique has to offer. He currently has three albums to date: Revolutionary volumes 1 and 2, and Third World where he explores a wide range of topics while also staying in tune with current events. He doesn’t concentrate too much on style, but naturally provides substance and depth to his music while displaying a wealth of knowledge unmatched by his peers.
By Mansa Motif @ www.ofoneculture.com
