Detroit artist Ilajide is ringing in the new year with the release of his latest single, “SLIDE,” a dynamic fusion of funk, soul, and rap that signals a fresh direction for the rising star. Known for his work with the hip-hop collective Clear Soul Forces, Ilajide is carving out his solo identity, blending introspective lyrics with infectious beats and slick flows.
“SLIDE” stands as a playful yet spiritually charged track, underpinned by a sample from Kleer that Ilajide unearthed from his record collection. The result is an upbeat, magnetic song that showcases his ability to merge classic influences with modern production, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Reflecting on the song’s deeper meaning, Ilajide explains, “When I sampled it, I knew I had to rap almost like Big Daddy Kane, but I wanted to focus on my spirit in the lyrics. I’ve been doing a lot of shedding and growing, and I wanted to reflect that in the song. It’s almost like, slide this way – into positivity, healing and accountability.”
This new release follows Ilajide’s victory in the 2022 J Dilla King Of Beats Battle and sets the stage for his upcoming project, Pocket Jams 2, due this Spring. With “SLIDE,” Ilajide continues to evolve as both a rapper and producer, offering fans a glimpse into the next phase of his musical journey.
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