Cleveland, Ohio artist Don Kenobi draws influence from seasoned hip-hop acts such as Mac Miller, J Cole, and Gucci Mane. The fast-rising artist has managed to work with Mick Jenkins, Mark Battles, Skydxddy, and Sarcastic Sounds, which has helped him evolve his sound throughout the years. Having established a solid international fanbase through his middle Eastern Roots, he has generated a steady following in the US.
His new project ‘The Nile’ is an 8-song offering that is gritty, raw, and brimming with that same infectious enthusiasm he has become known for. At 24-minutes, the album was executively produced by Columbus producer River Beats, and the bold, in-your-face beats grab you instantly, hooking you right from the outset. Those powerful rhythms and alluring tones are staples of Kenobi’s profound musical pieces, and his authenticity explodes in this elevated offering. The album goes through various themes that cohesively create one body of work.
‘The Nile’ kicks off with the fresh sounds of ‘Imagine,’ a record that symbolizes the daily indie struggle that artists go through. This theme of perseverance and the difficulties of wanting to breakthrough can also be heard in ‘Far Away.’ Tracks like ‘Seeing You Smile’ and ‘Something to Remember’ are more heartfelt reminiscent records highlighting the past. Concluding with ‘Find it Funny,’ the album wraps up with a catchy hook symbolizing victory in finding himself as a person and artist.
Don Kenobi’s come-up story does not exist solely for the narrative but stems from deeply personal experiences. Now, gaining the notoriety he once wished for, Kenobi is a reminder of the power of perseverance. Check out the new album below.