SoloSam does and can do it all. The artist/producer has been making waves in Chicago’s underground music scene for a while now with a take on hip-hop that prizes deep introspective dives and reflective laidback flows. Following his acclaimed 2021 album “PRINCIPLES TO DIE BY,” SoloSam returns with his first new single of 2022, “Calabasas.” The new self-produced record from the Windy City vet features Pivot Gang mainstay MFnMelo. Together, the witty, verbose MCs concoct a brilliant and knotty examination of artistic desire and how drive and determination can lead us to extraordinary places.
Regarding the track, SoloSam shared:
“‘Calabasas’ is a figurative place of wealth, success, and that part of music that so many artists reach for. When you dream about it, you don’t know that in that journey you’re going to lose friends along the way, and you’re going to question yourself.”
“Calabasas” is a brilliant illustration of exactly what SoloSam has to offer the music landscape at large. Throughout the record, he shows off his Swiss-army-knife approach to songwriting, moving from a rhythmic rhyme scheme before infusing his bars with earworm melodies that linger long after the song concludes. The four-minute journey is equal parts wistful and spirited as SoloSam offers vulnerable insight into the sacrifices and roadblocks that get in the way of any artist’s ascent.
SoloSam’s 7 Artistic Principles Every Artist Should Follow
This new year brings new adventures for SoloSam, who is embarking on a variety of musical and non-musical projects. Fans can expect new music with exciting collaborators in the near future, in addition to a Soho House-sponsored cooking show titled (Principles to Dine By). Though SoloSam stays focused on expanding his empire in every creative outlet he can get his hands onto, songs like “Calabasas” prove that he’s one of Chicago’s best spitters when he graces the mic.
Check out the new single below.
