Substantial Collaborations 2014

Leehahn - Shoulders of Giants (ft Substantial, Steph the Sapphic Songstress)

Lyrics Video: 
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B9B10NaF3T5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Stream on Spotify: http://bit.ly/2m3KSWk
Stream on melon: http://bit.ly/2zvmylv
DL on Itunes#: http://apple.co/2mRXQoP
DL / Buy the single album (including acoustic version) : 
http://leehahn.bandcamp.com/album/shoulders-of-giants

Celebrating and remembering the Giants of my life who have inspired and helped me to the person I am today.  (Isaiah 41:10) 
Thanks to Substantial and Steph the Sapphic Songstress for lifting up the track with their talent. Such a blessing for me to work with you. 

Lyrics by Substantial - http://substantialmusic.wordpress.com 
Chorus by Steph the Sapphic Songstress - http://sapphicsoul.com 
Music Produced by Leehahn 
Mixed & Mastered by Leehahn

Follow Leehahn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leehahndavid
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/leehahn
Spotify: http://bit.do/leehahnSpotify
Melon: http://bit.do/leehahnMelon

Verse 1
I stand tall 'cause I'm on the shoulders of giants
Stand alone like a calm soul in a riot
Studying the ways of the bold & defiant
Who never chose to be silent 
Played the role of a lion
Feeding those totally reliant
On their wealth of wit instead of gold or some diamonds
In a world known to be cold and it's violent
I'm marching with Martin overthrowing tyrants
Music up loud 'til it's roarin' like sirens
Now they say my music is known for inspiring
Maybe that Jun's with me and the spirit of Miles and Marley
Or Parker's lyrical style that haunts me
Plus I'm studying Nas, Com & Jill
So I can make music it's hard not to feel
Like Stevie 
No wonder we call that the real.
Believe me.
I'm as strong as foundation built
Beneath me 

Hook
If I have reached,
What seems to be the highest peak (It was on your shoulders)
Though I was weak
You showed just how far I could see (And the journey's not over)

Verse2:
Me alone these accolades ain't meant for
The man that I am is largely due to my mentors
I try to do what I was sent for
A long list of people should be sharing this splendor. Raise them
Glasses if you help raise him, amazing.
Ask this if Jun didn't praise him would you play them
"Classics" or would you just label him average
I ain't one to debate with my maker what the path is
I just thank him for the opportunity
And for folks like J Dilla who influenced me
More than musically he did it thru his illness
Still inspired to create though he was real sick
Thanked his momma when I met her man, that's real ***
You ain't worthy of respect if you don't feel this
To my giants/heros God bless
I'll carry the torch while carrying who got next

Hook

Shoulders of Giants

Shoulders Of Giants (ft. Substantial, Steph the Sapphic Songstress)

Substantial & Marcus D, together known as Bop Alloy, return with their signature jazz induced sound and a clever new single entitled 'Count On Us' from their upcoming sophomore LP, 'Another Day in the Life of...' out this Spring. Featuring sparse, yet perfectly placed vocals from Steph, The Sapphic Songstress, COU showcases the duo's sonic growth with Marcus tickling the ivory to perfection over his sophisticated brand of boom-bap. (Think jacket and tie with fresh sneaks.) Substantial masterfully chronicles BA's humble beginnings, the morning after a show, while simultaneously counting from 1 to 40. This is the type of creative Hip Hop storytelling the repeat button was made for. 

On February 4, 2014, Bop Alloy launched their Kickstarter campaign to raise money for their new album ‘Another Day In The Life of…’. With a goal of $7000 and a funding period of 20 days, Bop Alloy hit the ground running and took to Twitter, Facebook & Instagram to promote their campaign. The duo achieved their goal in one week! Pledge incentives included digital downloads, t-shirts, posters, autograph copies of their CD and even an offer to perform at your wedding. With 13 days remaining, Bop Alloy provided stretch goal incentives for their fans. With $10,000 raised, fans can aide Bop Alloy with a Holiday album scheduled for release Winter 2014. If $15,000 is raised, they will record and film a live album and all contributors will be given free admission into the event. Six days later they reached their 1st stretch goal. “The support's overwhelming. $10,000 without even a preview of any new music is a testament to the kind of fans we have, and the type of listeners we attract said Marcus D. 

Support the campaign by contributing on Kickstarter: kck.st/1iprZlb

LYRICS
No surprise I’m the one they sleep on, I roll with dreamers 
But when us two come thru we make’em believers 
Fiendin’ thru your receivers when it’s all 3 of us 
For the love of the music, high 5 for Jesus 
In a Motel 6, wake up call at 7 
Breakfast we ate later had these players in heaven 
By 9:10, I’m in a cab to the airport 
Boarding’s at 11, I’m not stressing so therefore 
It’s time to finish up this rhyme I’m 12 bars into 
Hold up... 13 now yeah this shit’s cool. 
Came up since 14 with a hissing ass demo 
15 minutes strong though the songs were hella simple 
Finish that 16 then I crashed like a cymbal 
Sounding 17 again, I’m gon’ bodied that instrumental 
Night before, packed house. It was 18 an over 
Still would’ve been killed if only nine teens showed up 
We focused, in 2021 we may have more for you 
But still be underrated they say that’s a catch 22 
We wanna be... rated the greatest like #23 
But since our thinking’s too forward that’s something we might never see 
25 mins before I board for my trip 
Hit my driver with $20 + a $6 tip 
Thinkin’ that I was 27 when I heard Marcus shit 
28 when we began to plan the very start of it 
Dark skin chick tapped me saying , “I don’t know what’s on your mind. 
You’re holdin‘ up the line, by the way your gate is 29 
“Pirty” lil’ 30 something sista from the motherland 
Thanked her for the info, passed the checkpoint with my stuff in hand 
Copped gum, snacks and a book for something to do 
Cashier said my total’s 31.32 
Phone at 33%, my battery is lame 
Charged it and called my family ‘fore I boarded the plane 
34 years young, making music with my friends 
Documented through a 35 millimeter lens 
Day and a half before, yo that’s when we hit the road 
Only 37 copies of our album in tow. 
One show they all go ‘cause they’re a hot commodity 
Imports plus shipping be like 38 a copy B 
Finally boarded, near a guy who’s 39 or 40 
By the time we’re in the sky I closed my eyes and started zoning... 

 HOOK 
Just another day in this life of ours, homes Seems like we the ones that you can count on 
Feels right the moment they put the sound on 
Count on us to hold it down from now on 

REPEAT HOOK 

Drop on the 1 
Clap on 2 
Nod on the 3 
This is 4 you 
Drop on the 1 
Clap on 2 
Nod on the 3 
This is 4 you 
This is 4 you!!!

(S. Robinson, M. Marino) 
Lead vocals by Substantial 
Produced by Marcus D 
Additional vocals by Steph, The Sapphic Songstress

Count On Us ft. Steph, The Sapphic Songstress

First single from "JugLife Too," The follow up to Hazewerth's "JugLife" album released in 2012. Substantial linked up with the Dynamite Bruhz during the A3C festival in Atlanta to lay down this track. Hazewerth is an avid fan of H.I.S.D., the super group comprised of MCs Scottie Spitten, Savvi, Equality, Dj Flash Gordon Parks, and producer King Midas and thought Scottie Spitten would be perfect for the track to set off the release of JugLife Too. The track is smooth and perfect for relaxing with a glass and a few friends. The project is slated to release in its entirety March 4th, 2014 via Hazewerth.com & Salem Psalms.com. 

Feelin' Good Ft. Substantial & Scottie Spitten (of H.I.S.D.)

From the new Bop Alloy (Substantial & Marcus D) album 'Another Day in the Life of...'
Available on Bandcamp: bopalloy.bandcamp.com/album/another-…in-the-life-of

'Writing My Wrongs' has a dark soulful groove perfect for reflection while riding low in something classic. Substantial trades verses with Seattle rapper, Justis over a chill bounce track produced by Marcus D. The two MCs boast effortless double time flows about their mistakes, and the wisdom that came with them, while DJ Jav adds surgical cuts of the familiar Kendrick Lamar lyric "I could never right my wrongs, unless I write them down for real." Track also features an interlude from the album called 'Tokyo Improv' featuring Kenichiro Nishihara which was recording live in Tokyo, Japan. 

After a successful Kickstarter campaign that brought in over $15,000 in 20 days, Bop Alloy is set to drop their album on April 8, 2014. They will be touring briefly on the West Coast with CYNE this Spring. http://www.bopalloy.com/showdates/

4/4 - WorldBeat Cultural Center - San Diego, CA
4/5 - TBA
4/6 - Milk Bar - San Francisco, CA
4/7 - Barboza - Seattle, WA
4/8 - The Know - Portland, OR

Credits:
'Writing My Wrongs' featuring Justis
Lyrics by Substantial & Justis
Produced by Marcus D
Cuts by DJ Jav

'Tokyo Improv (Interlude)' featuring Kenichiro Nishihara
Beatbox by Substantial
Cuts by Marcus D
Keys by Kenichiro Nishihara

LYRICS:
HOOK
Whether you can’t forget
Or it’s not that big of a deal
I could...
(Never right my wrongs, less I write it down for real)
So I swear
(For real)
It was my bad
(For real)
I could...
(Never right my wrongs, less I write it down for real)

Whether the issues dead
Or you’re tryna find a way to heal
I could...
(Never right my wrongs, less I write it down for real)
So I swear
(For real)
It was my bad
(For real)
I could...
(Never right my wrongs, less I write it down for real) 
VERSE 1
This is... for every single person I hurt
Whether it was unplanned or on pur-
pose (pus)
If I didn’t own up I’m worth-
Less
This is for..
Any girl I raised my hand to, ‘Fore I realized that ain’t what a man do Thanks to my big bro, ya’ll know this manhood shit don’t come with a manual
All them record stores that I stole from
When I was flat broke and so young
So I really can’t blame y’all when y’all find my albums and download’em
Any of my brothers I stole on
Should’ve turn the other cheek and rolled on
But I mistake pride for self hate, I can now say I was so wrong Forgive me
 HOOK  

VERSE 2 (JUSTIS)
Reminisce on my younger days
Had hunger pains on those summer days
Every man for himself like Hunger Games
From a city where we don't see the sun for days
Mama had one daughter, 3 sons to raise
I was gone for days like runaways
With a blunt to blaze
Drugs I could slang to get money raised
Couple of mistakes and it's judgement day
Got cuffed up but I lucked up that the cop put the gun away
Looking back now and it must be fate
Set me free when he judged my case
Could of been in the pen or could've been killed
"I could never right my wrongs unless I'm write'em down for real"
For real!
HOOK

VERSE 3
This for the times that I was dishonest
Every single broken promise
Treating you beneath the you, you are 
When you should be regarded as goddess
For my student they laid to rest
Many days I wept
From the pain your death has caused 
Missed your requiem,
Overseas blessin’ them 
May the most high protect your soul
For them family functions I missed
Missing your dap, hug, or kiss
Hope you don’t feel dissed 
But you know the real is 
Pretty safe bet I was doing this
Even though I be ripping and running 
From trying to be something, I know you exist
I know you don’t see it
But call if you need it
Don’t wait til you’re out of your wits
And for you haters, 
Sorry that we made it, on our terms not the ones they’re making so...
Minor or major, don’t matter they’re paying as long we’re not the ones playing ho
Chased down our dreams and we made it so, though we can’t be found on the radio
But the realest, know where the real is that’s real ish most people just lazy yo
Sorry we’re not more accomodatin’, yall worried about who the stars datin’
Times a wasting our apologies this bull shit’s dominatin’
So we’re concentratin’ on innovations not nominations
With a small congregation to spread our gospel to the population!

HOOK

Pre-order the new album @ BopAlloy.Bandcamp.com
BopAlloy.com
Facebook.com/BopAlloy
Twitter & Instagram: @BopAlloy

Writing My Wrongs Ft. Justis

From the new Bop Alloy (Substantial & Marcus D) album 'Another Day in the Life of...'
Available on Bandcamp: http://bopalloy.bandcamp.com/album/another-day-in-the-life-of

(M. Marino, S. Robinson, C. Graham) 
Produced by Marcus D 
Bass by Gerson Zaragoza

LYRICS
VERSE (Substantial)
Tonight there’ll be blood on the dance floor 
So they won’t sleep on us any damn more 
Trying to step up in our house 
And turn the party out 
Like they don’t know what we’re about 
That’s the last draw 
Like an artist’s final sketch on his deathbed 
I ain’t gotta speak a word but the message 
Couldn’t be any clearer 
When bringing the terror 
With the moves I deliver 
I’m the best yet 
The crew’s far from new to this 
Move with the fluidness of 
Tai Chi 
Kinda like a high stewardess, 
Fly B 
And my style so mutinous, 
To try me 
Foolishness, you’re the stupidest, 
Likely 
And I’m a dance floor general 
The war that’s in store for y’all will be biblical 
Crying out Oh my God he’s invincible 
Far from typical always unpredictable FRESH! 

 HOOK 
Ever dance with the devil in the pail moonlight 
Refusing to kneel ‘cause you’re ready to fight 
Warriors UNITE 
‘Cause it’s on TONIGHT 
Wanna see who’s nicer? 
Step into the cipher!  (“Step Up” sample cut up)  Bboys (step Up) 
Bgrils (step Up) 
Why you sitting down right now better get up 

VERSE 2 (Cise Starr) 
Cise Starr in the building  
Hide wife and children 
They rapping with everybody over here killin’  
Dobeson just did another song made a million  
Yeah I got jokes me and Stan now chilling 
 Hardcore b-boy stance black Sicilians 
 Diamonds in your ears cause my words stay brilliant 
 Don’t stop cause the cypher still rolling 
 You were the next up now you in the crowd stoic 
Hiding behind don’t even want to get noticed 
Cause you like damn these brothers just owned it 
 Just Hannibal taking on the Romans 
 Lyrics hit hard like the boy in the Omen 
 Made you jump like my name was Shonen 
 Everybody wanna get down when I’m on it  
Like Lauryn who’s runnin The Score 
 Cause I’m like a young Biggie in front of the grocery store… 

HOOK 

VERSE 3 (Substantial) 
Yo you better bring it, no cowards over here 
Train real hard for the battle of the year 
Keep my weapons sharp and dance without a care 
My arsenal is raw ‘cause I gotta be prepared 
No kitanas, nunchucks and such 
Hand 2 hand combat is rough enough 
Keep them windmills tight for you bust your gut 
Fascinating movements leave you like what the F---!  
Buckle up, we about to run a muck 
In our track suits, shell toes no button up 
Or ties but we mean biz so put em up 
If action speak louder than words we shut’em up 
Shut’em down like Flav & Chuck, they can’t hang with us 
You ain’t Starrs like Cise, you can’t Stand with Sub 
Chill, your offense ain’t ready for Marcus’ D 
Still breathin’ life in the artistry, peace. 

HOOK 

  BREAK 
Give me a sec to tighten my shoes 
Watch when I hit the floor and I move 
No one alive is stopping the groove 
When the beat drops and I cannot lose 

  BREAK 

OUTRO 
Ain’t no party like a BA party 
‘Cause a BA Party don’t yield 
Get you hella live 
With your hands in the sky 
Or switch up the vibe 
And CHILL

Step Into The Cypher Ft. Cise Starr Of CYNE

From the album "Art Is Where The Home Is":
http://substantial.bandcamp.com/album/art-is-where-the-home-is-deluxe-edition
Original version available on Mello Music Group:
http://mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com/album/home-is-where-the-art-is

Label: Substantial Music | Rockwell Product Shop

Neighborhood Watch (The Other Guys Remix)
Featuring Acem of Gods'Illa
Written by: S. Robinson, A. Hall, I. Entsua-Mensah, J. Myles
Produced by The Other Guys

Yeah 
Yeah 
These are the people in my neighborhood. 
In my neighborhood, in my neigh-bor-hood! 
These are the people in my neighborhood. 
In my neighborhood, in my neigh-bor-hood! 
Yeah... 
Algorythm what up? 
Yeah! 

HOOK 
Things ain't what they seem 
You don't know who to believe 
From the preachers to thieves 
You better (Watch out now!) 

They wanna get what you got 
Wanna be what they not 
They don't know when to stop 
You better (Watch out now!) 

Area's on the rise 
Want they slice of the pie 
Got they eyes on the prize 
You better (Watch out now!) 

Say it one mo'gin 
Better (Watch out now!) 

VERSE 1 (SUBSTANTIAL) 
Watch out for any half ass Muslims or a part-time Christian 
Door-to-door Jehovah's Witness on a mission 
Watch out for that Carry-Out Cat (whoops) Carry-Out Chicken 
Any club wit' a thug's being carried out, listen 
Little later couple slugs gon' be hurried out the clip 
Watch as the party goers start to scurry out quick 
Watch for clean lookin chicks, in a dirty outfit 
With a big Adam's apple and some hairy armpits 
Better watch for them Rollas and them Scallywags 
If you hit it hope you got a bag 
For you end up in a body bag 
Gas ain't the only rate high around here 
Oooh baby I like it raw but shit, not around here (whoa!) 
Uh-uh, Uh-uh (no!) 
Watch out, watch out (yo!) 
Push-on, push-on (go!) 
Watch out for the old lady watching from the window of her crib 
Hardly see her out the house but she know everybody biz 

HOOK 

VERSE 2 (ACEM) 
While you at it better watch that new face on strip 
Saw you walking to that stash spot, you ain't slick 
Keep in my mind that the pretty young woman you with 
Got some cousins that know about every dollar you get 
While you looking, have u seen the ingredients there? 
If they fry it, you gon buy it but we need healthcare 
Watching all these little boys as they grow up scared 
Never of another man but of being a man 
But they watching entertainers so they changing their hair 
To look like theirs, my neighborhood's identity is no longer there 
Done up and gentrified the streets we used to ride 
Now that old popeyes is luxury highrises 
So who u gon side wit? The natives or intruders 
No name on that bullet in the barrel of the shooter 
Cameras on the corner watching everybody movements 
I hope you watch your neighborhood the way they watching you 

HOOK 

VERSE 3 

(ACE) And the reason they aint watching, they blindfolded 
Moving aimlessly, same direction they minds going 
(SUB) It's a shame to see them steady fallin' and not knowing 
Hit rock bottom and find'em laid out top popped open 
(ACEM) Like the heat won't stop smoking, loved ones in dire need of sleep 
They just laying on the sheets with their eyes opened 
(SUB) Hoping things get better but the problem won't stop growing 
Difficult to carry the weight with both of your arms broken 
(ACEM) Watch, cause they motives, ulterior, not spoken 
the minute you're not focused, they looking your plans over 
(SUB) And leaving you ran over & left for dead 
Try'na get ahead, on that quest for bread 
(ACEM) Then they get it and realize, the things that it won't buy 
Life is a whole journey, they concerned with a joyride 
(SUB) We watching at all times, from friends to foes 
Novice to pros, this is how it goes, you better watch it! 

HOOK

Art Is Where The Home Is

Neighborhood Watch Ft. Acem Of Gods'Illa (The Other Guys Remix )

From the album 'Another Day in the Life of...' OUT NOW: 
CD | Digital | Vinyl - Coming Soon
http://bopalloy.bandcamp.com/

The latest single 'Not 4 Show' featuring Steph, The Sapphic Songstress from Bop Alloy's Sophomore LP, 'Another Day in the Life of...' draws a line in the sand with posers on one side and Substantial & Marcus D's feet planted firmly on the other.

Kings without the need for crowns like the son of God! 

The drums knock. The melody is chopped to perfection. The flow and rhymes are technically sharp, yet soulful. This isn't minute made rap, they "do it for real". This isn't shock rap, glorified self hate or anything you frown upon one day, then champion the next in the club or on computer. The real. You know, the not-always-explicit-for-the-sake-of-being-explicit real. The struggle of juggling school or parenting with your passion or career while remaining true to your beliefs and the culture that helped raise you. Hip Hop.

Catch Bop Alloy on tour in a city near you this Spring.

UPCOMING SHOWDATES
5/25 - Arlington, VA @ IOTA
5/29 - Chicago, IL @ Smart Bar
5/30 - Detroit, MI @ 5e Gallery

LYRICS

We do it for real 
Repeat 4x 

VERSE 1 
We’re not your average underground 
Rap group frontin’ like we’re down 
With everyone that come around 
Or show up on a blog 
But something unique & profound 
Working to perfect our sound Kings without a need for crowns 
Like the son of God 
We ain’t aiming to be Hell bound 
Like these other sell outs 
Watch’em you can tell how 
They’re whoring for applause 
(Not too many will reach our level 
Spread your wings come fly with us) 
You’re lovin’ how we put it down 
Feel free to sing aloud 
Watch how we move the crowd Like Rakim Allah 
Marcus let the rhythm hit’em 
I provide the lyricism 
Disregard the criticism 
Do it how we want Puttin’ plenty soul up in it 
Been ill for a minute 
They were hoping that we’re Fin(n)ish 
Like we’re from Vaasa 
(They fear us ‘cause we are rebels 
But it’s all love when you rock with us!)  

HOOK 

VERSE 2 
We don’t do it for a rack of pay, 
To receive accolades 
Though it’s nice to gather praise 
This is ‘bout expression 
But it cost to have it made 
Somebody has to pay 
If you want the tracks we make 
To add to your collection 
Sorry but I have to hate 
Shady biz in rap today 
Not the best path to take 
As your profession 
(But if your skin is hard as metal 
You might be equipped to fly with us!) 
Every night I have to pray 
Several hours after 8 
That the ends I calculate 
Justify the means 
Partner bout to graduate 
I got a little gal to raise 
But not enough to allocate 
Funds to all our needs 
Hope our plans coagulate 
And the fans advocate 
So success validates 
Us chasing our dreams 
(Keep on reaching for the next level 
May God blessings shine on us!) 

HOOK 

BRIDGE 
 (Sample) Do it for the well educated and illiterate Real and nonsense, conscious and ignorant 
Do it for the wealthy and the welfare recipient 
If you down, listen up, you out there, listen in  

VERSE 3 
For well placed instruments, 
Flows that’s intricate 
And infinite 
Our growth’s imminent 
Need a bigger belt 
(We’ve out grown these children farewell 
They just can’t keep stride with us!) 
Whether the crowd’s intimate 
Or it is significant- 
ly larger, we’re killin’ it 
Cause we’re known to rip it well 
All for the feel we get 
Recalled from our innocence Call it a stimulant 
We offer a little help 
Hardly coincidence 
Our songs make you reminisce 
Of times where a lyricist 
And DJ we’re rocking bells 
(They would drop, not just rock jewels 
Want that real come ride with us!) 

HOOK 

Do it for the real 
We do it for real 
Repeat 2x

Not 4 Show Ft. Steph, The Sapphic Songstress

RATE THIS SONG: http://www.djbooth.net/index/tracks/review/bop-alloy-waiting-room-freestyle/

While touring the U.S. this past spring, emcee Substantial and beatsmith Marcus D. managed to step into the studio together for the first time since releasing Another Day in the Life Of…, their sophomore album under the Bop Alloy banner. The result, making its world premiere on our front page, is a brand new freestyle titled Waiting Room. Behind the boards, Marcus creates an atmosphere that’s “part pimp, part doctor’s office waiting room circa early-‘70s.” Sub adapts his flow to the laid-back instrumental, reeling off agile, intricate bars without breaking a sweat. Waiting Room isn’t part of a larger set, but we’ll keep you posted on the underground twosome’s plans as further details emerge. - DJBooth.net

Waiting Room Instrumental originally featured on 'Another Day in the Life of...". Album available on Bandcamp: http://bopalloy.bandcamp.com

Lyrics:
Yes it Is I back with my guy our styles collide 
Try to imitate or deny this fly shit we provide…
Ya gotta be dumb, the lottery y'all just won, start turning them headphones up 
And feel the allure of what we record we can't be compared to none
So called elite ones, Nor the cretins
We see their hunger and they're bitin but none of 'em eatin
Uh-un, don't care where you're from star you'll never be us
My lyrics are mags and you'll need a rag to sop up their wack ass... 
Trust issues because music been misused, but we are the Vishnu
Of this ish dude, our music uplifts you as you continue to climb
And shine as bright as I’m or until stars resign
Mind’s Einstein with rhymes fresher than thyme or pine
Been in my prime with spittin design to give you classic tunes
Get in our way get hit with this spray that gives you acid wounds
Original man with lyrics and plans unlike these average coons
Hurling these bombs, the world in palm, I’m bout to grab the moon
Then I’ll get Mars, hit’em with bars, scratch that, harpoons
Hit’em so hard, get visions of stars at 3 in the afternoon
We puttin it down, ain’t fucking around with these rap baboons
Don’t monkey around with none of them clowns national lampoon’s
But we’re a national treasure, put that on your ledger,
Make sure that it’s bold in capital letters, feeling like Hannibal Lecter
It’s on should’ve been warned, yall are just entrees to us
Far from the norm of what we perform, it’s just spontaneous
I get lost in the moment, told‘em I am prone to black out
Bars as good as gold and I’m the chosen, mo’ than what they rap bout
To my father I am beholden, suppose that I would’ve told’em 
That I’ve been posin’... after the scolding probably would’ve got smacked out
I don’t act out, I don’t act up I ain’t acting
That ain’t what my life bout I am active, I’m bout action
Fuck them what they chat bout need to wrap up all that rappin’
Runnin circles round these bamas man I’ll lap them and they’re faction…
Facts friend!

Waiting Room (Freestyle) - DJBooth.net Exclusive

From Another Day in the Life of...
AVAILABLE NOW: https://bopalloy.bandcamp.com/album/another-day-in-the-life-of

With Fall in full swing, it's only fitting that Substantial & Marcus D officially release their latest single, Autumn Leaves. Guest vocals from the always soulful Pismo, add the perfect touch to this Autumn anthem while Marcus D's stellar production sonically captures the coolness and brilliant colors of the season.  Substantial's lyrics, inspired by Gordon Park's book To Smile In Autumn, talk about setting new goals after reaching those from his youth as his life approaches the Autumn years.

It’s like I reached that point where many folk lives get froze
Instead I’m busy living most of my childhood goals
Never stagnant, forever I’ll strive for more
This elevator’s barely above the bottom floor

Autumn Leaves is from Bop Alloy's critically acclaimed 2nd album, Another Day in the Life of... if you're a vinyl record enthusiast, you'll be happy to know that the duo recently released a Limited Edition EP version on 12" vinyl. Pick up your copy today and don't forget, there's more Bop Alloy right around the corner. The Winter Breaks Digital-Only EP drops this December 2014.

Autumn Leaves Ft. Pismo

From Winter Breaks, released 09 December 2014 
(M. Marino, S. Robinson) 
Produced by Marcus D 
Lyrics by Substantial

Track includes "Ukrainian Carol" (Interlude) 
Keys played by Marcus D
lyrics
HOOK 
What you gonna do? What you gonna change 
Try something new or remain the same? 
Will you follow thru or give up like a lame? 
Time to start again. 90 RPMs 
(Repeat 1x) 

VERSE 1 
Trying to better myself every year but falling short 
Should do it for growth but i focus on cheers I long support 
Probably should cut back on all of the beers that I had bought 
Lessen my eff-ups and get some clearer-minded thoughts 
Clearly, I am fault but hear me, I’m a sport 
That’s making some new resolutions I fear or all for naught 
Smeared what I’ve been taught. Steering toward folk 
On the road to perdition, frontier of all the lost 

HOOK 

VERSE 2 
She wanna be ready for beaches, that’s why she barely be eating 
Depriving her body of anything Godly impressing these heathens 
Any new diet she find on a blog she pledging allegiance 
Get any smaller and she will dissolve, what is the reason 
Blind like a venetian, crying from all of the teasing 
This ain’t attack on a titan she fighting her inner demons 
Trying to pick up the pieces, finding what she’s been seeking 
Promise to finally love her true self... ‘Tis the season 

HOOK 

VERSE 3 
(Some people be like) 
I will quit smoking, I will tweet less, work out more 
Manage my debt, manage my stress, play a new sport 
Volunteer, travel abroad, even recycle 
Learn to knit, get a good job, study my bible 
Go on more dates, meet some new people, try not to boast 
Get laid, get married, probably both 
Fix up my home, have a baby, get a new hobby 
Read a lot more, hang outdoors, other guys be 
Like “This is the year to put it in gear and soar 
Can’t tell you what’s different but listen this isn’t the year before 
Cause I had a vision of living a life that meant much more 
Taking a chance to dance at the top won’t be ignore 
I ain’t ever stopping, failure ain’t a option 
Said to hell with caution, walk the trail no talking 
Principles to live by, no more resolutions 
Excuses replaced by fruitful execution 

HOOK

Resolutions Per Minute

From Winter Breaks, released 09 December 2014 
(M. Marino, S. Robinson) 
Produced by Marcus D 
Lyrics by Substantial

VERSE 1 
When I was little I had plenty of dreams 
But football & art stayed at the top it seemed 
The peak before I reached mine still doubt I have yet 
Studied greats, took notes like I’m stealing tablets 
Placid. Hadn’t a clue of why I was here 
Long as fun exceeded the total amount of my tears 
Years pass and peers flag my dreams with jeers 
And soon my vulnerable mind appeared to be drowning in fears 
Plus I was broken up physically 
But what really stopped me was they got to me mentally 
To be or not to be is my quandary, picture me 
Smoking opposition like Barbeque, Hickory 
Flawless victory what would you have done 
Should’ve been a track star all I could do is run 
Done playing on the field but still playing the field of dreams 
But football star no longer seemed real to me 

HOOK
Real or not I want it 
And once I got it
You know I gots to flaunt it for all 
If it’s there I’m coming
Hundred miles and running
With the world on my shoulders to haul
Down a lonely road, trying to find my purpose
No telling what I’ll see
Low and behold, after all my searching 
I found out its up to me

VERSE 2 
Still ain’t sure what I’m here for 
‘Cause sports faded from the plan in my mid teens 
Though art was still apart of the scheme I’m writing rhymes, part time 
Trying to hop on the scene I won’t be ignored 
Wasn’t hard to make green creativity 
And drive made my hustling keen, couldn’t stop me 
I was just spreadin my wings, trying to live out my dreams 
Wanted to live like Akeem and King Jaffe 
Raps on point but my grade’s obscene 
Momma saying I should join the marines I mean the army 
She think no college probably want a kid like me 
I told her let them see my art and we’ll see. Shouldn’t doubt me 
Meanwhile, teachers taking me to schools to speak 
And show my work, yo these youngin’ were me but even better 
Saw I made a difference later on when they would visit 
Then join the school I attended, look, another new beginning… 
Eh ma, by the way, peep this Pratt acceptance letter 
Never say never. 

HOOK 

VERSE 3 
Now as a man, Stan managed to stand 
On my own when life was sketchy ‘cause I drew up a plan 
To combine my art and music and expand my brand 
Giving back to my students and of course the fans 
I’m sure my purpose is service 
So I see our challenges and work it out the best I can 
Below the surface, don’t do it for the vine or cam 
Fronting for a little backing never part of the plan 
So what you here for? Me? Busy chasing down these dreams 
When they close enough to see I be like “there it go” Got’cha! 
Never will I knock a-nother trying to discover 
Their path and where it leads. We travel at different speeds 
Battle until we bleed when it’s looking rather bleak 
Courage gather from deep til grasp what we seek 
Long for it like Nia but Nia is what we needed 
Some will chase it forever and may never get to see it 
(Most don’t see what I see / Most don’t hear what I hear) 

HOOK

Longing for Nia

From Winter Breaks, released 09 December 2014 
(M. Marino, S. Robinson) 
Produced by Marcus D 
Lyrics by Substantial 
Additional vocals by Marcus D, Rachelle Etienne-Robinson & Serenity Robinson

VERSE 1 
We celebrate a week long 
Gonna get our eat on 
Many things we'll speak on, elevate minds 
And spirits is the reason 
That we gotta keep on 
‘Cause ‘tis season to congregate. Shine! 
Headed to my man crib 
Where the whole fam is 
Together we banded since the days of old 
Families expanded 
Gave our parents grandkids 
Unified we’re standing reaching our goals 
Elders, children 
My peers in the building 
To those no longer living we say ashe 
Pouring libations 
Peaceful faces 
Soulful vibrations made my day 
Talk of better tomorrows 
Life with less sorrow 
A place where all folks value our lives 
Fam and my next of kin 
Chillin’, no flexin’ 
Counting our blessings, watching our wives... do the same 


HOOK 
It’s all about (Family) 
It’s all about (Community) 
It’s all about (Culture) 
It’s all about (Life) 
Repeat 1X 

We celebrate (Family) 
We celebrate (Community) 
We celebrate (Culture) 
We celebrate (Life) 
Repeat 1X 

VERSE 2 
Strengthening our bond as we thank the divine 
Moving our people forward a day at a time 
Speaking to our problems, making time to listen 
Commemorate our past, restoring our traditions 
While creating new ones… for instance 
To my daughter Kwanzaa’s as normal Christmas 
Gotta give her more if her future’s to be brighter 
That’s my true duty as her father & provider 
See her with her friends taking pride in her history 
So overjoyed like witnessessing victory 
Seeds making crafts while we chat ‘bout progress 
You’d be hard pressed to hear us spatting out nonsense 
Watching candles burn as we countdown the days 
Greeting you with peace followed by the phrase… 
“Habari gani?” Depending on the day 
One of these 7 principles is what you would say 
Follow me now.. 
Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa 
Nia, Kuumba, Imani 
Repeat 2x 

OUTRO 

I know when times get hard 
We put all our faith is God 
You still gotta elevate with me 
Still gotta celebrate with me 

‘Cause until we work as one 
You know our work’s far from done 
You know you gotta elevate with me 
You know you betta celebrate with me 

We see that times are bad 
And it’s got us fighting mad 
I need you to elevate with me 
Really need you to celebrate with me 

Stand up and lets rise 
Open up your mind and eyes 
So you can elevate with me 
I want you celebrate with me 

HOOK 
It’s all about (Family) 
(Community) 
(Culture) 
(Life) 
(Family) 
(Community) 
(Culture) 
(Life) 

We celebrate (Family) 
(Community) 
(Culture) 
(Life) 
(Family) 
(Community) 
(Culture) 
(Life)

A Celebration

Von Pea and The Other Guys' latest album, To: You, has been acclaimed by fans as one of last year's best releases.  For the next single off the album, Von Pea teams up with Maryland's own Substantial for the fan favorite track "Easy To Fall".  Listen as Von and Substantial give us their advice on life over another dope production by The Other Guys.

Diggin this track? Stay tuned for the upcoming collaboration EP, The Past..., from Substantial and The Other Guys dropping in March on HiPNOTT Records.

To: You is now available online for digital download on iTunes, Bandcamp, and all other retailers. Compact Discs are available at UGHH, Fat Beats and anywhere else you can cop CDs.

Vinyl pre-orders are available now!

Von Pea: Easy To Fall (feat. Substantial) [prod by The Other Guys]

Watch the Animated Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxhdzBFFsQo

From the album "Another Day in the Life of..." in stores now: https://bopalloy.bandcamp.com/album/a...
Available on CD, Digital & Vinyl.

Animation Director: Carlo-Roman Picaso for Studio Picaso
http://facebook.com/carloromanpicaso | https://vimeo.com/carloromanpicaso

SONG DETAILS
Artist: Bop Alloy (Substantial & Marcus D) ft. Oma Pearl
Song Title: Sketches of Pain
Written by S. Robinson & O. Ichile-McKenzie & M. Marino
Produced by Marcus D

Lyrics:
VERSE 1 
Peacemaker 
Son of a violent man 
Dream chaser 
Raised on divided land 
Where thieves raped us 
Treated like I’m not a man 
Our behavior 
Like rebels without a plan 
Step false get offed by a coward’s hand 
Life’s shorter than an hour hand 
But the least of my worries is the Taliban 
Or hopin’ that they’ll pass an assault rifle ban 
Most guns where I’m from aren’t licensed fam 
The ones that are 
Usually held tight in hands 
By the cops and so called authority figures 
Cringe at my black skin while calling us nigger 
But 6 letters can't define me I'm so much bigger 
The path I walk, 
Most people can’t endure the rigor 
Back up talk 
By displaying so much vigor 
Mastered art 
The blind just ignore the picture 
Passed a tart 
But of course my portion’s bitter 
That or starve 
Cause round here they don’t deliver 
Grabbed a quart 
Rather be engulfed in liquor 
Lacked support 
And I wasn’t born a winner 
An afterthought 
These know-it-alls won’t consider 
A man of God 
Who sits upon a throne of wicker 
Who scratched & Clawed 
to reach the very point I’m sitting 
After-all 
That’s what fuels the poems I’m spitting 

HOOK 
(Substantial) 
I’ma take this pain I’ve been dealt with and use it 
This ship can’t reach the stars if I don’t fuel it 
Without my music and art I’d be useless 
I always knew 
I got to do so... 
I’ma take the pain I’ve been dealt and use it 
This ship can’t reach the stars if I don’t fuel it 
Without this music and art I’d be useless 
I always knew 
What I had to do 'cause... 

(Oma Pearl) 
You can’t hide from who you are 
You can’t hide from who you are 
Not even the highest peak 
The lowest place 
In every space 
You always leave a trace 
You always leave a trace 
Always leave a trace! 

VERSE 2 
Blood pressure high, 
Self-respect low 
Could be cancer inside 
Am I’m scared to know 
Lucky to be alive 
At the age of 34 
Livin’ in fast times 
Still manage to die slow 
IV pumping morphine in my bloodstream 
Woke with a scratchy throat & groggy what a rough dream 
Something’s 
Not right, nurse can you help me sit up 
Felt like I was stabbed, 
Every time I try to get up 
Hurt so damn bad, 
I can’t even cough this phlegm up 
Pain every minute 
Every moment that I been up 
When I told the fam 
They looked at me like I’m finished 
Huh! I’ll be damned 
if anything we’ll make me give up 
Wishing I was home in my chair 
Anywhere but here 
Baby girl completely unaware 
Lives without a care 
It ain’t fair 
When your child, you can’t even pick up 
But I did it for her, so I’ma keep my chin up 

HOOK 

BRIDGE 
(Oma Pearl) 
No matter what happens today 
Tomorrow the sun will rise 
We'll be there 
We'll be there 
We'll be there 
To greet the sun 
Good Morning 
Good Morning 
Good Morning 
Good Morning

Sketches Of Pain Ft. Oma Pearl Of Conjure Woman

www.IamSubstantial.com

Virginia based International Hip Hop Recording Artist from Maryland.