Mustafa Shakir – Merica
Hollywood actor parlays success into music career with new single ‘Merica’
NEW YORK, NY – Mustafa Shakir has made a name for himself in Hollywood as one of the best character actors in the business. Many fans would recognize him as the super villain and crime boss John McIver – AKA Bushmaster – from the second season of “Marvel’s Luke Cage.” Others might recognize him as Big Mike from HBO’s drama “The Deuce” or as Victor from the Emmy Nominated series “The Night Of.” He’s currently shooting scenes in New Zealand for the upcoming hit Netflix series “Cowboy Bebop,” which is slated to be released at the end of the summer.
But long before he became one of Hollywood’s go-to actors, Shakir was pursuing his first love: music. For as long as he can remember, music has been a cathartic outlet for him, and over the years, he’s written and released singles that have entertained a small but loyal audience as well as a mixtape called “Masterpiece Theater,” which are streaming on all digital platforms. He hopes to expand that audience with his latest single “Merica” – the first off a new album called “Magia Negra,” which is due to go wide in distribution later this year.
“Merica” is a tongue-in-cheek satirical take on the culture that permeates most of the country today. Shakir calls it an “anthropomorphic take on America” in that the song is talking to America as if it was a person.
“It’s basically like America is a Karen,” he said. “I’m talking to the myth of America – reading her her rights according to what’s going on currently. There’s specificity but also general themes I’m speaking about. It’s spoofy – kind of in the spirit of Eminem’s ‘Slim Shady.’”
The mid-tempo song has a funky swag that serves as a perfect platform for Shakir’s soulful flow. It has a sound that would fit perfectly as a track for one of the shows or films he’d be featured on. And the lyrical content is equal parts challenging and entertaining. It feels like Lauryn Hill-meets-Jay-Z. It’s easy to see how a wide range of influences – from The Roots’ Black Thought, to Common, to a Tribe Called Quest – have made an impact on his style. But at the end of the day, the swag of his sound is 100 percent Shakir.
“I feel like I’m a lyricist, first and foremost,” he said. “There’s simplicity but also a lot of complexity to it. If you study the lyrics, you can tell I’ve read quite a bit. There’s some intelligence behind it all. I want to be known for flexibility. I’m a chameleon – you can see that as an actor when I’m switching in and out of characters. But that’s also true of the different flows I bring. There’s variety with my music, but not so much that I don’t come hard with it. I want to be able to give people different flavors but without losing my individuality. So you’ll get a lot of different energies, but the core will be the same. There’s thoughtfulness, fun, and most of all creativity. That’s a big word for my music. I want to bring the art back into Hip Hop. I’m not doing it for the dollar – this is an expression of who I am.”
Shakir said “Merica” is just the first of what he has planned for 2021. He plans to release a couple more singles between now and the summer, and then would like to drop the full album “Magia Negra” by July or August. He’s proud of the project and the people he was able to collaborate with. One song features India Arie – making him the first rapper she’s ever collaborated with – while another features Heather Victoria. He also worked with producers James Goldfingz Wheeler, Langston Masingale, and Voli Martung (who is the producing partner of Young Guru).
To listen to Mustafa Shakir’s music or to follow him on social media, please visit:
https://www.instagram.com/_mustafashakir_/
https://twitter.com/_mustafashakir_
https://www.facebook.com/thaeffortless1
TikTok @_mustafashakir_
The heart of “I Gotta Get It” lies in its authentic reflection of the struggles faced by many who aim to carve a niche for themselves in a harsh, competitive world. MCVEE’s lyrics delve deep into themes of hustling and working relentlessly. He paints a vivid picture of the daily grind, overcoming obstacles, and the burning desire to succeed against all odds. This song isn’t just music—it’s a rallying cry for those fighting to make a name for themselves, to make a better life beyond the confines of their beginnings.
MCVEE’s storytelling is poignant—each verse encapsulates the essence of striving for a dream while tethered to the gritty realities of an unforgiving environment. His music does more than entertain; it inspires and connects with listeners who see their own battles reflected in his words.
“I Gotta Get It” is more than a song. It’s an experience, a journey of someone refusing to be defined by their circumstances but instead, defining their path with unwavering ambition and relentless effort. It’s a testament to the spirit of a generation that refuses to settle, aiming not just to rise but to soar globally.
For those from Winston-Salem and similar locales, MCVEE’s voice rings particularly true. It’s a voice for the unseen, the unheard, and the undeterred. This track is an invitation to join him on a quest not just for success, but for significance—on a stage as vast as the world itself.
RVSHVD, the South Georgia singer-songwriter, is set to release his rendition of Tupac Shakur‘s iconic Dear Mama just in time for Mother’s Day. This heartfelt homage to one of hip-hop’s most beloved tracks pays tribute not only to Tupac, but also to RVSHVD’s own mother and the countless hardworking parents who sacrifice for their children. This deeply personal connection infuses RVSHVD’s rendition with authenticity and emotion, promising a moving listening experience for fans old and new. RVSHVD’s musical journey from hip-hop to country reflects his evolution as an artist seeking to express his truth. In RVSHVD’s own words:
Tupac was a major influence in my life growing up. His music and message has reached millions and will continue to do so. ‘Dear Mama’ has a special message that many who grew up with a parent that worked tirelessly for their child can connect to, myself include.
Inspired by Keith Urban‘s Sweet Thing, he found a sense of belonging in country music, where he could speak honestly about his experiences and emotions. His unique blend of hip-hop and country garnered attention with his version of Roddy Ricch‘s Ballin, amassing millions of streams and establishing him as a rising star in the industry. Recognized as Country Rookie of the Month by Billboard and featured as an Artist To Watch 2024 by CMT, RVSHVD continues to captivate audiences with his genre-bending sound and genuine storytelling. With upcoming live dates including a West Coast run, CMA Fest, Nashville Block Party, and London Long Road Festival, RVSHVD’s star is on the rise, promising an exciting journey ahead for fans worldwide. Experience RVSHVD’s heartfelt tribute to Tupac and celebrate the enduring love of mothers everywhere with “Dear Mama” below. Follow RVSHVD on Apple Music, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, TikTok, X, and YouTube. Stream your own company here.
In the ever-evolving landscape of music, authenticity remains the cornerstone of a resonating brand. The dynamic conversation between Ace K and Shah Cypha on On The Grynd Live serves as a testament to the importance of genuine connection with one’s roots, audience, and creative process. While navigating through the intricacies of the music business, Ace K emphasizes the significance of staying true to oneself, prepping meticulously for studio sessions, and the emotional gravity of having one’s music impact listeners. Drawing from the conversational gems and experiences shared, this article extrapolates the broader implications of the themes discussed, underlining their relevance to aspiring artists and veterans alike in the music domain.
The Evolution of An Artist: Adapting to Change While Staying True
The trajectory of Ace K’s musical career illustrates a journey marked by continuous learning and adaptation. From mastering his first 808 to exploring diverse genres, Ace K exemplifies an artist’s ability to grow while maintaining their core identity. It’s about “manipulating \[experiences] to the point where \[they] can write about them.” The gradual shift from analog to digital platforms and the evolution of music styles throughout his career is a testament to his resilience and versatility as an artist.
“It’s miles ahead and miles away from each other, but it still is the same basic anatomy, shall I say, where people
Crafting a Timeless Sound
In discussing the significance of cultivating a timeless sound, Ace K touches on the crucial element of cadence and the anatomy of music. It’s not about following the trends but about creating a “vibe” that transcends them:
“Music is a feeling, my guys. So if you make something that make people feel good, make feel sad, what not, what not. I mean, you gonna be successful.”
This perspective pushes artists to look beyond the surface-level metrics of success and delve into the emotional resonance of their work—a principle that ensures longevity in a fast-paced industry.
The Emotional Impact of Music: Bridging Generations and Cultures
Ace K’s narrative underscores music as an emotional catalyst capable of cutting across generational lines. When a fan shares that his grandfather connected with Ace K’s track “slacking,” it reveals the profound nature of music’s reach.
“He said, ace k, I want to let you know that my granddad loves your song. And he plays that. He told. He said, but how do you put it? He got on my nerves with your song, but I love it because he’s understanding our culture.”
Music, as portrayed by Ace K, is an intergenerational language, uniting listeners and creating common ground even where least expected. The universal appeal of Ace K’s music not only supports the brand’s growth but becomes a catalyst for broader acceptance and understanding within diverse audiences.
Cultivating Cultural Synergy
In a cultural landscape seeking connection, artists who speak to varying experiences enable the bridging of gaps. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, musicians have the power to create a cultural synergy that enriches both their personal brand and the communities they touch. Ace K’s experience is an embodiment of such a phenomenon.
Harnessing a Personal Brand: Importance of Pre-Studio Preparation and Self-Value
Ace K sheds light on the pragmatic aspects of building a successful music career: meticulous preparation prior to studio sessions and a firm grasp of one’s market worth. He advises fellow artists to “make sure all my lyrics is right” before even setting foot in the studio—a discipline that minimizes wasted time and resources. Additionally, understanding one’s value is a sentiment Ace K passionately shares, as he refuses to sign with “no bull stuff company” underscoring the power of a marketable brand.
“Market each song like it. Your last song… Put your all into everything.”
Armed with this dual emphasis on preparation and self-worth, Ace K’s approach to the music business stands as a blueprint for artists striving to carve their own niche in the industry.
The Business of Music Personified
The business of music extends beyond the creation of melodies and lyrics; it’s also about presentation, perception, and the strategic maneuvering of one’s brand in a saturated market. Ace K’s philosophy highlights the importance of being both the face and the foundation of one’s business, ensuring credibility and appeal to potential audiences.
In the midst of a landscape where content is prolific, and attention spans are fleeting, Ace K champions the significance of leaving a mark, whether it be through emotive music or carefully curated branding. His experiences and insights contribute to an evolving doctrine for artists in any stage of their journey, advocating for integrity, preparation, and self-awareness. By adhering to these tenets, one not only fosters a promising career but creates a life’s work that resonates with authenticity and purpose
Stream Ace K’s Latest record titled W.A.Y.N.E now which is available on all digital platforms
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