7.30.2021

Video: Morray – “Trenches” (Remix) ft. Polo G

Fresh Off His First-Ever Performance at Rolling Loud, the 2021 XXL Freshman Recruits a Kindred Spirit to Add a Verse to a Street Sermons Highlight

Critical Praise:

“‘Trenches,’ from an album due next week titled Street Sermons, rides the minor chords and trap beats that often accompany antisocial boasts. But while ‘Trenches’ doesn’t ignore gangs, drugs or poverty, Morray also recognizes a community that holds families, neighbors and friends” – The New York Times

“Few crooning rappers have his polish, resonance, and soul.” – SPIN

“With only four songs on streaming platforms—all released in 2020—Fayetteville, North Carolina rapper Morray has already proven he’s a hitmaker. His debut single “Quicksand” is undeniable, anchored by the type of hook you get from a Roddy Ricch or Rod Wave song and infused with storytelling and charisma to paint a picture even if you’re unfamiliar with the newcomer.” – Pigeons & Planes

The Video:

Morray‘s emotional singing and empathetic lyrics make him an ideal avatar for those struggling in the streets, and an excellent role model for those looking to make it out. His song “Trenches” is an ode to people who think they are out of options, urging them to stay positive through the pain. Today, the Fayetteville, NC native shares “Trenches” (Remix), which adds a verse from Polo G, another street storyteller whose lyrics speak for the less fortunate. The new remix juxtaposes Morray’s gospel-influenced passion with Polo’s plaintive and conversational melodies, the younger rapper spinning a succinct 16 about his rise from tragedy to triumph: “‘Member I was f*cked up, now my foreign in the hood parked/You can beat the system if you street and booksmart,” intones Polo G.

Directed by Justice Silvera, the video follows the story of a man who works hard every day to put food on his family’s plates, resisting the clarion call of street life so he can be present for his wife and young daughter. Morray and Polo G provide the perspective of those who’ve escaped their past hardship, but their lyrics prove that men like the video’s protagonist deserve just as much respect as any rap star. “Trenches” (Remix) is the latest in a long line of quality videos from Morray, most recently the video for “Mistakes,” a highlight from his debut album Street Sermons.

Debuting at #41 on the Billboard 200 and propelling Morray to #1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart, Street Sermons taps into the spiritual uplift and church-trained singing that makes Morray’s brand of hip-hop so unique, taking unflinching looks at the Fayetteville native’s youthful struggles and indiscretions and examining his motivations to succeed. Home to his breakout single “Quicksand,” which recently earned a GOLD certification from the RIAA and surpassed the 100 million view milestone on YouTube, the project contains universal truths about the tragedies and triumphs of growing up in the hood, filtered through Morray’s experience as a neighborhood kid made good. Complex ranked Street Sermons at #10 on their list of Best Albums of 2021 So Far.

Earlier this summer, Morray earned a position on the coveted XXL Freshman list for 2021. The honor is the latest in a long line of accolades, including one to watch” designations from Complex, Billboard, SPIN, Pigeons & Planes, and many more. An engaging live performer, as evidenced by his recent appearance on JImmy Kimmel Live, Morray was highlighted by Rolling Stone as the “Best Debut” performer at last weekend’s Rolling Loud Festival in Miami.

With Street Sermons and his newfound position as a XXL Freshman, Morray culminates his meteoric rise and proves that he’s ready to build an artistic legacy and a nest egg for his wife and kids. For an artist with Morray’s talent, the sky is the limit.

Watch “Trenches” (Remix) ft. Polo G: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJFWeweZkWk

Buy/Stream “Trenches” (Remix) ft. Polo G: https://morray.lnk.to/TrenchesRemix

Buy/Stream Street Sermons: http://morray.lnk.to/StreetSermons

Please contact Michelle or Erin for more info.

The Background:

Morae Ruffin known professionally as Morray, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter. Best known for his combinations of rapping and singing, Morray’s days as lead singer of his church choir heavily influenced his melodic and unique style. Growing up in Fayetteville, NC and getting in and out of trouble, Morray turned to music as his escape. He uses his real life struggle as inspiration for his music.