After listening to his song "Jay, 50, and Weezy" for the first time, it is clear that Dee-1 isn't your typical rapper. This young MC is native to New Orleans, but probably won't remind you of any of his well known predecessors from the same city (i.e. Lil Wayne, Master P, etc.). With a very distinct voice (it is very easy to tell he is from New Orleans) and a consciousness that is hard to find in many people his age, it's obvious Dee-1 is somebody that everybody in hip hop should become familiar with.
One of the things that stands out about Dee-1's bio is that he is a college graduate. It's no secret that a formal education is lacking among prominent artists. With the exception of an artist like J. Cole, we don't have the presence of artists that are college graduates, so it is a breath of fresh air to see that Dee-1 is attempting to put his education to use. After graduating from Louisiana State University, Dee-1 worked as a middle school teacher by day and a rapper by night. He eventually decided to dedicate his full time and attention to music, but his work with the youth proves that he seeks to practice what he preaches.
After dropping a few mixtapes, Dee-1 dropped his debut album entitled "David & Goliath" in 2009. The album gained high praise, especially from many prominent figures in the Louisiana hip hop music scene. Capitalizing upon the recognition of the album (which is available on iTunes), Dee-1 has hit the road and performed alongside countless nationally and internationally recognized stars (Lupe Fiasco, Talib Kweli, and The Roots to name just a few) as well as dropping his latest mixtape "I Hope They Hear Me Vol. 1.5", which dropped in November.
Dee-1 is one of the few artists that is truly working on creating a movement. His sense of social (in)justice, giving to the community, and love of hip hop have driven him to become one of hip hop's elite. In addition to his music, he makes sure that he continues to stay active in the community and make a difference not just with his words, but with his time and action. If he does become a recognizable figure, as he should, it would be a step in the right direction for not just the music, but the culture.
You can download Dee-1's latest mixtape and music from his website at www.dee1music.com as well as view different music videos and interviews. Dee-1 will also be featured on Straight Outta Hip Hop's first compilation mixtape, in partnership with Hip Hop Hope Dealers, called "Commercial From Commercial" with his song "Jay, 50, and Weezy". Check out the music video below! Leave any comments you would have as artists always appreciate feedback.
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