4.19.2024

Chicago Rapper Verse Shares Just Verse EP, Stars in the Video for “Face The Music

Signed To Lupe Fiasco’s 1st & 15th Label, the GRAMMY-Winning Artist/Songwriter Shares a Soulful 5-Pack EP, Featuring Production from Soundtrakk, and Dedicated to the Searchers, Dreamers, and Those Looking to Change Themselves For the Better

Critical Praise:

“An attitude of perseverance and innovation is what continues to fuel the flame for TDK (Two Depressed Kids) as they aspire to change the game of music.” Sheen Magazine

The EP:

Chicago rapper Verse’s deep soulfulness and sharp lyrics make him a perfect fit for 1st & 15th, the label founded by Lupe Fiasco, with his business partner, Charles “Chilly” Patton. Demonstrating his immense talent, the multi-faceted artist shares Just Verse, a new 5-track EP.

A statement of purpose by the philosophical multi-hyphenate, Just Verse is an introspective exploration of self, delivered via vivid verses over lush production. Rhyming with a gentle rasp, Verse is a compelling presence behind the mic, his probing pen brimming with tongue-twisting confidence: “You know I’m built different/ so let me put this in your ear/I came from the bottom then I rose up to stardom/and it’ll rub off if you come near,” he rhymes on “Addicted To The Game.” Legendary Chicago producer Soundtrakk produced three of the EP’s five songs: his frayed synths on “Hurt Don’t Hurt” complement Verse’s traumatic recollections, while his rippling keys and sumptuous bass line imbues Verse’s love song “For You” with deep feeling. Atom Grey takes the helm on the remaining tracks, perfectly suiting the vibe.

“With an EP of five songs, you only get a limited amount of space to introduce yourself to the masses,” says Verse on the new project. “So that’s why I wanted to put together a body of work to serve as a synopsis of everything that I’m about musically. At the core, Verse means to be versatile, whether that be musically or emotionally. I’m at a point in my life and career where I want to show off all the sides of my character. Each song represents a different side of me, and a different version of myself.”

Along with the EP, Verse shares the brand new video for “Face The Music.” Produced by Atom Grey, “Face The Music” is a pugilistic lyrical exercise, as Verse dares his haters not to dance to his beat and tells them exactly who they’re dealing with: “I’ve been in my bag like when you looking for your keys/so you know I’m gone be armed like you looking for your sleeves,” he spits. In the video, directed by Chris & Blaq of Impakt Studio, Verse examines the different paths his life might have taken, depicting himself as a series of clones bringing each possibility to fruition. One clone is a robber, sent to rob yet another version of Verse. Meanwhile, the original Verse counts money in a warehouse, spending quality time with his family and friends.

“‘Face The Music’ is a decision,” says Verse. “If you’ve come to see what’s on the surface then that’s what you’ll get. If you choose to look beyond the stereotypes beyond the similarities you’ll began to understand there’s more. Maybe the music can save you, but only if you want to be saved.”

Handpicked by Lupe Fiasco for his 1st & 15th label, Verse, also known as zVerse and Versatile, hails from the West Side of Chicago. He made his bones working behind the scenes with acclaimed artists, including J. Ivy. Verse’s work on J.Ivy’s song “Running,” also featuring John Legend and Slick Rick, earned Verse a GRAMMY award, when Ivy’s album won Best Spoken Word Poetry Album. Now with Lupe Fiasco behind him, Verse is opening a new chapter in his career.

Watch “Face The Music”: https://youtu.be/bT542J5Dg2E

Stream Just Verse EP: https://orcd.co/justverse

Just Verse EP tracklist:

  1. Addicted to the Game (Prod. by Atom Grey)
  2. Face The Music (Prod. by Atom Grey)
  3. For You (Prod. by Soundtrakk)
  4. Hurt Don’t Hurt (Prod. by Soundtrakk)
  5. Maybe It’s Me (Prod. by Soundtrakk)

Please contact Michelle or Kevin for more info.


The Background:

Introducing VERSE , also known as ZVERSE, Gentle Verse, or simply Versatile. Zebadiah Anderson, a Grammy award-winning recording artist, writer, a record producer and designer. Verse is a multifaceted artist hailing from the vibrant streets of Chicago’s west side. From an early age, Verse showcased extraordinary musical prowess, captivating listeners with his soulful voice and profound lyrics.

Beyond his musical talents, Verse’s heart beats for civil rights advocacy and humanitarian causes. His upbringing in a community grappling with social and economic challenges ignited a passion within him to leverage music as a catalyst for positive change. Through powerful performances and heartfelt lyrics, he has kindled hope, love, and equality in the hearts of his audience.

Verse’s unwavering commitment to using music as a force for good has garnered him critical acclaim a prestigious Grammy award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the music industry, and countless other Awards and recognitions. With his music resonating across diverse backgrounds, Verse has become a beacon of positivity and inspiration in the musical landscape.

As Verse gears up to release new music and promises to encapsulate his trademark fusion of soulful vocals, impactful lyrics, and uplifting melodies, while renewing the focus on spreading positivity and hope through music.

Verse’s mission remains crystal clear—to harness his musical talent as a vehicle for creating positive ripples in the world, leaving an indelible mark with his powerful messages. With unmatched talent, boundless passion, and an unwavering dedication to making a difference, Verse continues to inspire and uplift audiences, leaving an enduring legacy in the music industry and beyond.

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Just Verse EP: https://orcd.co/justverse

“Face The Music”: https://youtu.be/bT542J5Dg2E

 

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