Central Cee Revels In The Fruits Of His Labor On The Prevailing ‘Can’t Rush Greatness’

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Central Cee 'Can't Rush Greatness' review
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Central Cee spent the better part of three years finding the footing he now claims in the rap spotlight. For the most part, he’s achieved that by positioning himself alongside household names, both in the UK and stateside. His 2022 hit record “Doja” was named after the pop star with the same name. Then came “Sprinter” and Split Decision with fellow UK rapper and Mercury Prize winner Dave, both of which preceded Cench’s “On The Radar Freestyle” with Drake. Subsequent releases paired Cench with J. Cole, Lil Baby, 21 Savage, Asake, Ice Spice, PinkPantheress, and The Kid Laroi. Soon enough, there wasn’t a soundscape that Central Cee hadn’t found himself in. Over those three years, he demonstrated the necessary patience in building toward the “greatness” he aims for on his debut album Can’t Rush Greatness.

Amid the 17 songs on Can’t Rush Greatness, Central Cee raps with reaffirmed confidence and self-assurance. His tone is less of the brash and confrontational “I told you so” and more of the grateful soldier emerging from the ruins of battle to a victory he prayed he’d secure. “Came from the mud and my whole hood witnessed / Now all the kids know anything’s possible,” he raps on “Up North.” The sentiment remains the same on “Limitless” as Cee unloads introspective raps over stirring vocals from fellow UK singer Sekou (an addition so good that it could be mistaken for a classic sample). “I still didn’t lose ambition / When the shower never got warm and the ceiling leakin’, the roof was drippin’,” Cee says with an icy bluntness. Can’t Rush Greatness celebrates the confirmation that hard times are now in the rearview mirror, an acknowledgment best made for a debut album.

What elevates Can’t Rush Greatness is the balance on multiple fronts that Cee maintains throughout the album. UK drill and its notes of brashness and aggression on “Band4Band” with Lil Baby the Skepta-assisted “Ten” are complementary to the introspective title track featuring Dave and album closer “Don’t Know Anymore.” Meanwhile, the undercurrent of Latin music on “Gata” adds to the album’s diversity, as does the R&B-leaning – to Cench’s standards at least – “Truths In The Lies.” The vulnerable anecdotes of heartbreak on “Now We’re Strangers” add life to the album in the same way that tough-talking stories of the streets that “Up North” provide. Truths about success on “Top Freestyle” rival his requests to be acknowledged appropriately on “5 Star,” a record that earned an understandable diss from UK spitter Aitch, whom Cench distastefully name-drops on the song. With Can’t Rush Greatness, Central Cee showcases his winding road to the top and the adept journeyman he’s become both through sounds and life experiences.

Central Cee’s debut signals better days in terms of success for UK rappers in the States. On “Walk In Wardrobe,” he quips portentously, “Top ten in my scene, that’s еvident / When I relеase, I compete with Americans.” As of this writing, projections for Can’t Rush Greatness place it in the top 10 of the upcoming Billboard album charts, a first for a rapper based in the UK. Paired with a presumed chart-topping bow on the UK album charts, this feat makes Cench a star on both sides of the Atlantic — and opens the door for similar success as other well-known UK stars like Dave, Skepta, Stormzy, and others ready their returns with upcoming albums. Cench’s influence on pushing rappers to find success outside the UK is to be acknowledged, and as he notes on “No Introduction,” the proof is already in the pudding. “If it weren’t for the work that I put in Paris, none of these guys would’ve gone to Europe,” he brags.

Can’t Rush Greatness is the product of trusting the process, as the album arrives nearly three years after Central Cee first made a splash with most of the world. This period extends to almost four years for early supporters who saw Central Cee’s potential with “Loading” from his 2021 debut mixtape Wild West. Things are much calmer for Cench nowadays; that is, the UK rhymer can rest assured knowing that his spot in rap is cemented and his future in the genre is promising. Can’t Rush Greatness is an early rap album of the year contender. Central Cee’s exact destination on the scale of greatness remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt that he’s heading in the right direction.

Can’t Rush Greatness is out now via Columbia Records/CC4L Limited. Find out more information here.



source https://uproxx.com/music/central-cee-cant-rush-greatness-review/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.