Starting Some Static

Young Static

There are few places the recession hasn’t reached — the automotive industry, real estate, middle-class families, hip-hop … Yes, even rap producers have felt the pinch of a shrinking economy. Just ask Young Static, a producer/rapper from Chicago, who’s diligently recruiting studio projects while releasing his own singles. Times may be lean, but the music isn’t. One listen to the tremendous “Like Me” and you’ll realize that Static doesn’t mince much—especially not his words. Though not especially inventive, his gangsta tirades ratchet up the menace that permeates the track. A string section and a wailing electric guitar bring the drama, while Static showcases his nimble flow, with a cadence that recalls Ludacris. But here the message is a lot more intimidating than female admirers and their respective area codes. “You ain’t never in your life heard nothing like me,” Static roars. Part boast, part threat — if you weren’t already shaking it, you might just be shaking.”