As we rap this year up, I wanted to share one of the many jewels I've found with you. It features two of the most slept-on artists out there—J. Rawls and Middle Child. Now, J. Rawls is one of the best producers you'll ever hear. His understanding of soul music's history, sonic value and placement is stunning. He doesn't build beats as much as he just just cooks, and layers, and seasons with elements... it's like watch a pastry chef at work.
Some of you might know Rawls from how i do—as the chief beatminer behind Ohio players, Lone Catalysts. Since then dude has worked with some of the finest underground artists in R&B and hiphop; everyone from Jonell to Eric Roberson to Wordsworth.
J. Rawls' Essence of Soul is a must have:
But the real jewel of JR's catalog might be his project with a young singer named Middle Child. I can't find much on google for her, so I'm guessing Ms middle might be another one of these shining comets that flies far, burns bright, then flames out.
She just had this warm, young, but worldly voice--like a young mary but not as weary.
At least we've got this:
