Seattle hip-hop has a rich and eclectic history. From a national perspective, the lineage can be traced back to artists like Sir Mix-a-Lot and his Grammy-winning, No. 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100, “Baby Got Back.” Other big-name Grammy winners include Ishmael Butler of Digable Planets and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis.
Now, new names are bubbling up to the top in the Pacific Northwest. And perhaps the most popular in the city today are Oblé Reed and Travis Thompson. Both are keen lyricists, and both know how to crack a joke with the best of them when the moment comes. And together on a track? Well, that’s just hip-hop chef’s kiss.
VICE got the chance to unveil the new track, “Roll Call,” which features Travis Thompson and comes from Oblé Reed’s forthcoming album, Line Leaders. Fans of Reed can see him at upcoming shows in New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle. And check out our interview with him here.
VICE: There’s a long history of excellence when it comes to Seattle hip-hop. What do you see the city bringing to the table when it comes to the art form now?…