The Westcoast rapper’s new vibe from his upcoming album ‘Kingmaker’ lays down the gauntlet and tackles a variety of subject matter.
He is undoubtedly a veteran of the game. Thanks to his insanely driven passion, Xzibit (real name Alvin Joiner) has cultivated an understanding of what it takes to be a major player in hip-hop. At 50 years old, he is showing no signs of slowing down as demonstrated on this gripping new drop.
We knew it was coming, and this week the rapper unveiled Been A Long Time Pt. 2. Produced by Dem Jointz, who is responsible for songs on Dr. Dre‘s Compton––for which he won a Grammy Award––it features singer Jenn Em, who helps to recreate the ambience of the classic X we all know and love, drawing parallels with his early 2000s output.
EXPLORE MORE: Xzibit Debuts Lacklustre New Single ‘Play This At My Funeral’
If ever a hip-hop time capsule was needed, his inclusion is a given and it’s not even up for debate. No matter the album, his return is an electrifying event, and more is to come thanks to his upcoming buzz worthy release – Kingmaker.
What’s It Like?
With bouncing percussion and oozy bass lines, X to the Z is back in the traditional sense while also catering to a new generation of hip-hop lovers. Through staggered snares, he demonstrates a flare for an intense and calculated delivery, dispatched by unyielding verses bolstered by his vocal timbre. As the iconic rapper breezes through the track with dynamic energy, his wordplay results in a consequential lyrical triumph: “I’m real rough around the edges, she tried to seal the deal, but I was holdin’ all the leverage.”
Its release offers a better picture for what we can expect from his upcoming long play, that is, if consistency is on the cards. But for now, this is more like it—the indomitable flow synonymous with Xzibit, and it’s a far cry from the introduction we got two weeks ago.
The Music Video
The visuals enhance Joiner’s new music, with engaging camerawork and pulsating cinematography.
Captured at Bellinter House in Ireland and The Playground in Dublin, it marks a change of scenery for the lyricist, as he traveled across the Atlantic to capture the visuals. It was directed by Ovie Etseyatse,
What You Need To Know
Xzibit is one of the most widely acclaimed rappers in the genre, with a career spanning more than thirty years. His journey began following the release of his debut album At the Speed of Life, which featured the classic singles Papparazi and The Foundation.
He went on to release the acclaimed 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz and arguably his best work, Restless, which led him to collaborate with some of the most successful names in the business, including Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, and Eminem.
Like many rappers, he branched out into film and television, most notably becoming the host of MTV’s Pimp My Ride. His filmography includes TV shows and movies such as 8 Mile, CSI: Miami, Empire and XXX, some of which are considered cultural treasures.
How To Stream And Buy It
You can purchase a vinyl print edition from Diggers Factory for £21.99, though you will need to wait until January 2025 for it to ship. It is also available to stream on all major platforms including Apple Music, Tidal and Spotify,
His new album will release next year on former MMA champion Conor Mcgregor‘s––who Joiner refers to as “the real life Tony Stark”––record label, Greenback Records.
Stanisland Magazine 
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