Raised on the South Side of Chicago, Vic rose to public awareness as a member of the eclectic hip-hop band Kids These Days and founder of the Chicago collective SAVEMONEY alongside Chance The Rapper and other local upstarts Joey Purp and Peter CottonTale. His solo debut mixtape INNANETAPE dropped in 2013, igniting immediate accolades (including a spot on the XXL Freshman cover in 2014), and a fortuitous introduction to Jay Z that led to a record deal with Roc Nation. Mensa went on to help Kanye West pen his esoteric song “Wolves” from The Life of Pablo, drop three critically acclaimed EPs (2016’s There’s A Lot Going On, 2018’s Hooligans, and 2020’s V TAPE) and his debut full length The Autobiography (2017), as well as furthering social causes in his hometown through his nonprofit SAVEMONEYSAVELIFE. In both music and his social activism, Vic challenges the American system responsible for a history of overcriminalization, racial injustice, and issues that affect the lives of people in underserved communities, while showcasing profound levels of consciousness and self-reflection.

Yalee: Echoes of Life and Music
In the annals of hip-hop, a voice emerges from the chorus every so often, distinct and resonant. Yalee is one such voice, a beacon of raw emotion and lyrical authenticity. His story is not just one of music but of life, resilience, and the objective truth of the streets.
Origins of a Name, Roots of a Legacy: Yalee, a name bestowed by his sister, echoes through the corridors of Dayton, Ohio - his cradle, and now weaves its rhythm in the sprawling landscape of Los Angeles. It's a name that speaks volumes of his journey, a beacon in his odyssey from the Midwest to the West Coast.
A Childhood Etched in Memory: Growing up in a single-parent household, Yalee's narrative was shaped by the absence of a father who was behind bars and the enduring strength of a mother's love. His upbringing, flanked by the presence of two brothers and a sister, was marked by an indelible moment - the tragic loss of his pastor in a Bible class. Such poignant memories etch deep into the psyche, fueling the emotional depth of his music.
Musical Genesis - The Early Beats: At age eight, Yalee's musical voyage commenced, not confined to genres but exploring the realms of rap and soulful singing. His style is an enigma, refusing to be pigeonholed, a testament to his belief in the power of individuality in art.
Influences - The Triad of Inspiration: Yalee's music is a tapestry woven with threads of influence from Adele's soul-stirring narratives, J. Cole's penetrating lyrics, and Rod Wave's heartfelt realness. Yet, in this confluence of inspirations, Yalee's voice remains distinct, unapologetically his own.
The Pulse of Life in Melody: Yalee draws from the well of life's hardships, channeling his experiences into his music. His EP "My Outside is Different" is a collection of stories, each track a chapter of his journey - "God Stay With Me," "Candles," "My Outside is Different," and "Mental Health," each a testament to his resilience.
A Distinctive Voice in a Homogeneous World: What sets Yalee apart is his ability to weave stories i.e. his raw lyrical prowess; as his musical arrangements resonate with the soul, making his work not just audible but palpable.
Beyond the Microphone: Yalee's talents transcend performing. He's a craftsman of words, ghostwriting for others while pouring his essence into every line he writes.
The Message - A Beacon of Solidarity: Yalee's mantra, "The streets are not fair," is a rallying cry for those who've tread similar paths. His music mirrors the shared experiences of many, an assurance that no one walks alone.
Epilogue: Yalee's journey is more than a musical expedition. It's a narrative of survival, of finding one's voice amidst the din, and of touching lives through the power of authenticity. His story and his music are a testament to the enduring spirit of the human condition.

user543353505 is following