Chicago native Najee Muhammad is back with his remarkable new single “51–50”. After many delays on music due to major success in other areas of life (look him up), he’s finally back to update his fans. His first release under this name, the Chi-town born, LA based emcee glides across his latest offering with his pride on his shoulders. He bears truth in every bar, including lines about “the city bus writing that start to combat depression”, & seeing the youth grow up with “big homies” no older than they are themselves.

He reaches to his Las Vegas connections to assist on production, as 702-based producer ATLS delivers stark drum programming reminiscent of your favorite classic hip-hop records. With warm jazz piano & guitar arrangements serving as the backdrop to piercing imagery, Najee & ATLS create a soundscape worthy of the highest regards. The rapper speaks on elements of faith & conviction, subtly repeating “I just hope, when I pray, I’m not talking to myself,” throughout the chorus of the song. He also delivers clever wordplay about “trying to drown his demons” without knowing that they could swim.

The lyrics are heavy with these type of visuals, but Najee’s listeners are no stranger to the authentic textures of his art. It might be under a different name but it the same brand, same man, and most certainly the same fans. Lets just hope this is just the beginning of fresh sounds to come from the mystifying wordsmith. If so, we’re in for a treat.

Stream Najee Muhammad’s new single below, and follow him & VeryBad Mag for updates on new music from the Chicago rapper.