In the bustling heart of Chicago, where skyscrapers kiss the clouds and rhythm seeps from every corner, an artist is making waves once again. Cloak The Scribe, the underground sensation and lyrical craftsman, is back with a statement-making single, "Man, Listen." If you haven’t been paying attention to independent music, Cloak is here to fix that.
A Legacy Forged in the Windy City
Chicago isn’t just a backdrop for Cloak The Scribe—it’s his foundation. As he eloquently puts it, “Chicago is my birthing grounds. Everything I learned about being a solid individual, hard worker, hustler, strong spirit, and even gangster to a point came from growing up in Chicago.” Cloak’s journey from navigating the underground rap scene to becoming a hometown hero mirrors the grit and grind of the city itself. His early hit, “Chicago Done It Again,” from Life Music, Vol. 1: Hip-Hop Lives, and his debut album, Dreams of A Giant, cemented his status as a lyrical force to be reckoned with.
The Return: Vent Sessions and "Man, Listen"
After a hiatus in 2023, Cloak The Scribe is roaring back with Vent Sessions (Volume 1) and its powerhouse lead single, “Man, Listen.” Serving as a prelude to his sophomore album, this track is a bold declaration of independence—literally and figuratively. Cloak aims to capture the attention of an industry too often fixated on cookie-cutter sounds, shouting out loud that independent artists are not just here but thriving.
With a soulful yet hard-hitting beat produced by Epik The Dawn, “Man, Listen” features sharp bars and impeccable flows, enhanced by the equally potent presence of fellow emcee Sinatris. It’s not just a song; it’s a mission statement. “Man, Listen is about getting the industry’s attention. Putting it on notice that the Independent/DIY Artists are here, we the new standard, we here to stay, and we now operate outside and within the Matrix,” Cloak declares.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
The single’s polished sound is a testament to the collaborative effort behind it. Desharon Newcombe (Famnorf) of Pots and Pan Audio handled the production’s crisp and clear quality, while the visually striking artwork by Chywanda Walker, a.k.a. C. Snappa, provides a perfect visual counterpart. Together, this team has created an experience that is as much a feast for the ears as it is for the eyes.
“Man, Listen” is just the tip of the iceberg for Cloak’s forthcoming concept album, No Sleep Till Success. If this lead single is any indication, the album will be a masterclass in storytelling, lyricism, and innovation. Cloak’s unwavering love for his craft and his city shines through every note and verse, making him a voice that cannot be ignored.
Cloak The Scribe is more than a rapper; he’s a movement. “Man, Listen” isn’t just about Cloak’s return; it’s a rallying cry for independent artists everywhere. So, if you’ve been sleeping on the DIY music scene, wake up. The time is now.
Cloak The Scribe and the underground are here to stay, and they’re changing the game—one soulful, drum-filled track at a time.