MUSIC
NC Emcee and Artist Ty Bru’s “The Hollywood Diaries (Deluxeedition)” Is a Taste of Culture, Expression, Passion, and Creativity.
While we continue to debate about the authenticity of hip-hop, we often overlook serious talents thriving right under our noses. These are the artists who still represent the best of hip-hop and rap. I maintain that an artist like Ty Bru is criminally underrated. It takes just about a normal track’s length to feel his craft and agree that he is bringing something uniquely familiar to the table. With a decade of experience in the music industry, he has surely learned a thing or two about creating timeless music. As a recipient of the “Album of the Year” honor from the Independent Music Association, Bru has never relented on his craft. He is one of the hardest-working artists I know, and considering that music isn’t his only endeavor, this is impressive; he is also an entrepreneur, fashion designer, and certified filmmaker.
As Ty continues his physical therapy following a successful knee surgery, which has been physically and mentally draining, he still cared enough to release a deluxe version of his 2023 masterpiece, “The Hollywood Diaries.” This time, it is hosted by comedian T.Foxx, who shares his thoughts over some classic beats.
With this album, Bru returns to the basics and what originally inspired him to pursue music. This album is not only nostalgic for its obvious golden age influences, but it also takes us back to the foundation of Ty’s artistry, revealing his artistic identity and brand through some unmissable hits that deserve critical acclaim.
The album features 25 tracks, with T.Foxx involved in at least five of them. One collaborator involved throughout is his producer, Westtopher, who has been with him the longest. The idea was to create something with sentimental value, and who better to tag along than someone who started the journey with him and has been a mainstay.
“Funny Side of Town” is the opener, with T.Foxx commenting on recent events such as the Diddy fiasco. He sets the foundation, reflecting the album’s cornerstone built around nostalgic reminiscence.
When we talk about savvy wordplay and matchless pen games, I’d refer to tracks like “Life Been Hitting Different,” “Take Me Back To Cali,” “The Life We Swore” featuring Havoc, “Fight Or Flight,” “Titan Jack,” and “Return Flight.” This is not to say that the album is short on these!
It’s fascinating how Ty Bru delivers his verses. His composure on the mic is legendary, and his way with words requires a whole syllabus to decipher. For anyone who appreciates that classic charm that old-school hip-hop and rap bring along, then you will be spoiled for choice throughout this album.
In tracks like “Life Been Hitting Different” and “The Life That We Swore,” you can truly feel where the artist is coming from. These performances are so vivid that you can envision them as the artist performs. The way they unfold feels like you are there beside him, and that is the mark of someone who has developed his knack and deserves all the hype he can get.
This is not an album to cherry-pick tracks from. You should listen to it from top to bottom to experience its undying magic, as its impact transcends basic listening.
“The Hollywood Diaries (Deluxe Edition)” is ripe for consumption; I’d recommend a quality sound system, decent headphones, and at least an hour to spare because this is good music that deserves acclaim. Enjoy!
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