Fans and media alike often criticize artists of all genres of being “in the mix” more than being in the studio working, yet won’t commend those who move the complete opposite. Those who put making headlines over making music are placed on pedestals, while the real are put on the backburner. In an era where some rappers are known for doing everything but rapping, one artist still carries the torch for real MCs.
Lloyd Banks is one of the greatest rappers to ever breathe on a microphone, and his consistency should be noted. Since Banks’ debut in the early 2000’s as a member of G-Unit, it was evident that he was destined to be much more than just another guy in just another group. 50 often reiterated the fact that he didn’t necessarily have to rap to run the game because he had Lloyd Banks. That’s the equivalent of Kobe being able to figuratively take a night off because he had Shaq there to hold him down. It takes a lot of talent and even more trust in that ability to make such a bold statement, one that was absolutely true.
Fast forward to 2016, Banks surprised fans with not only one, but two projects; “AON: Live It Up” and “Halloween Havoc 3“. In fact, each project from here on out will be a part 3, 4, and even 7 in some cases to previous work. I say that to say, kill the “lazy” talk as it pertains to Banks, using words like that is an admission that you weren’t paying attention. Hate to break it to you, but just because other rappers release music more frequently than him, doesn’t mean said music is better. When you’re always on the scene, your music goes from a must listen to an “I’ll catch the next one.” When Banks drops, look at it like this; a home cooked meal is well worth the wait, don’t let the convenience of fast food blind you into thinking faster is better.
Since the end of the “punchline era” where he earned the nickname PLK, Punchline King, he’s made an effortless transition into displaying his versatility. He had one of the best years music wise if we’re focusing on quality as well as quantity, and I refuse to let it go unnoticed. Apparently, he’s not letting anyone forget about his place in the game anytime soon either as he’s rekindled his “Blue Friday” series on November 25th, 2016.
Banks has referred to himself as the Marshawn Lynch of rap, and for the perfect reason. He comes to outwork you and show the world that talent still reigns supreme over gimmicks. He isn’t concerned about “breaking the internet” with a controversial tweet or going viral for any video that doesn’t involve rapping. Instead, he lets the music speak rather than talk your ear off in an interview. Talent like his doesn’t come by too often, so we should take the time to appreciate and acknowledge the fact that he’s here.
With the recent birth of his daughter, Christina, I expect that we’ll hear an even more focused and hungry Banks moving forward. Honor our legends and give them their flowers while they can still smell them.
