Talk Dat Talk | Your Black Celebrity Gossip, Culture News & Trending Tea

Tag: The Alchemist

  • New Music Friday: 50 Hip-Hop & R&B Releases to Stream

    It’s Friday, and that means it’s time to refresh your playlists! This week’s New Music Friday is packed with incredible releases from some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop, R&B, reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats. Get ready to dive into a diverse collection of sounds perfect for your weekend unwind.

    Must-Hear Albums and Singles

    Leading the charge is Chris Brown with his new album ‘BROWN,’ promising his signature blend of R&B and Hip-Hop. Kelela drops the intriguing single ‘linknb,’ while the girl group FLO offers ‘Therapy At The Club,’ perfect for your next night out. Teyana Taylor and Wale team up for ‘Bed Of Roses,’ a collaboration fans have been waiting for.

    Action Bronson serves up his latest project, ‘Planet Frog,’ while the enigmatic PinkPantheress releases ‘Girl Like Me.’ 6LACK and Young Thug connect on the track ‘Ashin the Blunt,’ and French Montana, Max B, and Rick Ross bring the heat with ‘Smoking Pt. 2.’

    More Hip-Hop Heat

    T.I. reclaims his throne with ‘MR HIM,’ and Key Glock keeps the momentum going with ‘Go.’ DJ Premier and The Alchemist join forces for ‘FOR THE GIG,’ a must-listen for any true hip-hop head. Anderson .Paak features DEAN on ‘Aftertaste,’ and Little Simz shares ‘Sugar Girl.’

    Durand Bernarr brings the soulful vibes with ‘Am I Okay?!’, while Young Nudy drops ‘Ya Dig.’ Veterans 38 Spesh and Method Man collaborate on ‘The Main Line,’ and Tank and The Bangas feature David Shaw and Austin Brown on ‘Nighttime.’

    Diverse Sounds and Debut Projects

    The Womack Sisters offer ‘Chauffer,’ Lelo presents his project ‘Mastiff,’ and Cash Cobain drops ‘I Wanna Rock.’ ROE delivers ‘Body,’ while AZ returns with his album ‘Doe or Die III.’ DDG’s ‘Top Of The Hill’ and Fat Nwigwe’s ‘QUEEN’ are also making waves.

    Deante’ Hitchcock’s ‘Junkie in The Sun,’ YG Kayboe featuring Finesse 2Tymes on ‘By The Way,’ and Black Fortune’s ‘Road To Osshland: The Series’ add to the rich tapestry of releases. Don’t miss Hil St Soul’s ‘Nasalifya (Thank You),’ HotBlock Jmoe featuring Jacquees on ‘I Will,’ and JPEGMAFIA’s ‘War Over Land.’

    From Trap to Afrobeats

    Trap Dickey’s ‘The Ville,’ YG Marley’s ‘FIYAH,’ and Flyana Boss’s ‘FEELIN IT’ are set to dominate playlists. Lancey Foux drops ‘BODY,’ Armani White presents ‘[PRESS],’ and Young Chris, MadeinTYO featuring Freeway deliver ‘Too Strong.’ LP Trim’s ‘Coconut Water,’ Naomi Sharon’s ‘Better Days,’ and okay coleman!’s ‘Let Me Go’ offer a variety of vibes.

    Myles Smith’s ‘Hold Me In The Dark,’ Ovrkast.’s ‘Play This,’ and BigWalkDog’s ‘Forehead’ are also noteworthy. Terri Lyne Carrington + Social Science featuring Ledisi and others on ‘Autonomy Song,’ Uncle Waffles & Royal MusiQ’s ‘4 DA STREETS,’ and KB’s ‘Left Hand’ showcase the breadth of talent.

    Rounding out the list are Sam Pounds featuring Family Company on ‘Queen,’ Jawan featuring SIS on ‘Always On My Mind,’ and DreamDoll’s ‘Too Established/Maybelline.’ This extensive lineup ensures there’s something for every music lover.

    Which of these new releases are you adding to your playlist first? Let us know your top picks in the comments below!

  • New Music Friday: 25 Hip-Hop Releases

    Ready to refresh your playlist? This New Music Friday is packed with incredible drops from some of the biggest names and exciting newcomers in hip-hop. Whether you’re looking for hard-hitting bars, smooth melodies, or classic vibes, there’s something here for everyone.

    Must-Hear Albums and Tracks

    From chart-toppers to legendary crews, the new releases are set to dominate your weekend listening. Get ready to dive into new projects from artists like Lil Baby, Danny Brown, Ken Carson, the iconic De La Soul, Jim Jones, and the legendary DJ Premier alongside Ransom.

    This curated list ensures you won’t miss out on the essential sounds of the week. We’ve rounded up 25 of the most noteworthy releases, perfect for adding to your weekend rotation.

    Featured Releases

    • Lil Baby – “Try To Love”
    • Danny Brown – ‘Stardust’
    • Ken Carson – “Catastrophe”
    • De La Soul – “The Package”
    • Jim Jones – ‘The Fall Before The Rise’
    • DJ Premier & Ransom – ‘The Reinvention’
    • JT – “Girls Gone Wild”
    • G Herbo – ‘Lil Herb’
    • Quavo, Yeat, BNYX – “New Trip”
    • Bun B, Cory Mo – ‘Way Mo Trill’
    • Erick Sermon, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, Rico Barrino – “Like That”
    • 1900Rugrat – ‘Big Ah Kidz’
    • Lola Brooke – “Get Money”
    • Young Miko – ‘Do Not Disturb’
    • Russ – “Stay”
    • Boldy James, Nicholas Craven – “Infrared Dot Com”
    • Armand Hammer, The Alchemist – ‘Mercy’
    • MARCO PLUS Featuring Boldy James – “Jamal Crawford”
    • Nappy Roots, 808Blake, Trinidad James – ‘Chitlin Circuit’
    • The Twilite Tone Featuring Common, Madison McFerrin – “I Still Need Love 2”
    • Bay Swag Featuring Zeddy Will
    • Reason – ‘Everything In My Soul_BLUE’
    • VisionPlay – ‘The VZN SZN Disc 1’
    • BunnaB – ‘Sweet Lick’
    • Valee & MVW Featuring Niontay – “Yea I Do”

    A Diverse Soundscape

    This week’s releases showcase the incredible diversity within hip-hop. From the soulful sounds of Lil Baby and the experimental beats of Danny Brown to the enduring legacy of De La Soul and the raw energy of Jim Jones, there’s a track for every mood. Collaborations like DJ Premier and Ransom’s ‘The Reinvention’ and the star-studded ‘New Trip’ by Quavo, Yeat, and BNYX are sure to be highlights.

    Don’t miss out on these fresh sounds. Whether you’re a longtime fan of these artists or looking to discover your next favorite rapper, this New Music Friday has you covered. Happy listening!

    Which of these new hip-hop releases are you most excited to hear? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Armand Hammer & Alchemist Drop ‘Mercy’ Album

    Get ready for a sonic journey! The long-awaited second collaboration between underground rap titans Armand Hammer (billy woods & ELUCID) and the legendary producer The Alchemist, titled “Mercy,” has officially dropped. This project is everything fans have been hoping for and more.

    A Masterclass in Underground Hip-Hop

    From the moment you press play, “Mercy” immerses you in its world. Armand Hammer delivers their signature dense lyricism, painting vivid pictures with every verse. The Alchemist, as always, provides the perfect backdrop with his signature dusty drums and eerie, captivating textures that tie the entire project together.

    This 14-track album isn’t just a showcase for the core duo; it’s packed with heavy-hitting guest features. You’ll hear from acclaimed artists like Earl Sweatshirt, Quelle Chris, Pink Siifu, Cleo Reed, Kapwani, and Silka, each adding their unique flavor to the project’s rich tapestry.

    Cinematic Soundscapes and Unsettling Truths

    Tracks like “Laraaji” and “California Games” (featuring Earl Sweatshirt) exemplify the album’s cinematic quality. “Mercy” manages to be unsettling in the most captivating way possible, feeling like a fever dream woven from threads of truth, palpable tension, and Alchemist’s signature hazy loops.

    This collaboration solidifies Armand Hammer and The Alchemist’s place at the forefront of innovative hip-hop. “Mercy” is easily shaping up to be one of the standout rap releases of the year, offering a depth and artistry that resonates long after the last track fades.

    Featured Guests on ‘Mercy’

    • Earl Sweatshirt
    • Quelle Chris
    • Pink Siifu
    • Cleo Reed
    • Kapwani
    • Silka

    Released on November 7, 2025, “Mercy” is a testament to the power of collaboration between artists who push boundaries. It’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates intricate lyricism, atmospheric production, and the raw, unfiltered side of hip-hop.

    What are your initial thoughts on Armand Hammer and The Alchemist’s new album ‘Mercy’? Share your favorite tracks in the comments below!

  • New Music Friday: Hit-Boy, Alchemist, Nas & More Drop Tunes

    It’s Friday, and that means it’s time to refresh your weekend playlist! This week’s New Music Friday is packed with highly anticipated releases from some of Hip-Hop’s most respected artists. From legendary producers joining forces to posthumous lyrical gems and sultry R&B-infused tracks, there’s something for everyone.

    Producers Unite: Hit-Boy & The Alchemist Drop ‘GOLDFISH’

    Producers Hit-Boy and The Alchemist have delivered their ambitious full-length project, ‘GOLDFISH.’ Building on their previous collaboration, this album showcases a sharp focus on their dual artistry as both producers and rappers. Tracks like the introspective “Celebration Moments” and Hit-Boy’s intense bars on “Business Merger” highlight their deliberate approach to the craft. With guest features from Conway the Machine, Boldy James, and Big Hit, the album feels both familial and formidable, further solidifying their status as masters of their art.

    The project is supported by visually stunning content, including the Isaac Garcia-directed video for “Ricky” and Abteen Bagheri’s cinematic ‘GOLDFISH’ short film, demonstrating a fully realized artistic vision that extends beyond the music itself.

    A Lyrical Epic: Big L ft. Nas – ‘U Ain’t Gotta Chance’

    From the upcoming album ‘Harlem’s Finest: Return of the King,’ the lead single “U Ain’t Gotta Chance” is a lyrical powerhouse. This track features the late, great Big L delivering his signature venomous bars over haunting, cinematic production by G Koop, 2one2, Al Hug, and Mike H. Nas matches L’s intensity with his own cerebral precision, weaving themes of legacy and business acumen into his verse. The result is a timeless track that serves as both a tribute to hip-hop’s golden age and a testament to Big L’s enduring genius.

    Megan Thee Stallion Heats Up with ‘Lover Girl’

    Megan Thee Stallion returns in solo fashion with “Lover Girl,” a sultry and hypnotic track that puts her signature Houston flair on Total’s 1996 R&B classic “Kissin You.” Produced by Jacobdior and incorporating bounce energy from HaSizzle and silky vocals from BJ So Cole, the song is both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Megan confidently embraces her sensual side, delivering a performance that’s playful and magnetic, reminding fans why they are devoted to The Hotties.

    More Notable Releases This Week

    This New Music Friday also brings a host of other exciting releases:

    • Mac Miller – ‘GO:OD AM (10th Anniversary)’
    • Young Thug – ‘Blaming Jesus’
    • VisionPlay – ‘VZN SZN, Vol. 1 (Disc 2)’
    • Moneybagg Yo, G Herbo – ‘Feet On Land’
    • BabyChiefDoIt – ‘Warning Shot’
    • Ty Dolla $ign, Chlöe – ‘Wit It’
    • Reuben Vincent, 9th Wonder – ‘Welcome Home’
    • Bruiser Wolf, Harry Fraud – ‘Made By Dope’
    • Dave – ‘The Boy Who Played The Harp’
    • Lelo – ‘Banksy’
    • The BLK LT$ – ‘Honey: The BLK LT$ Meets The Killa Beez’
    • BNYX – ‘Loading…’
    • P.Dot57 – ‘Port Of Wilmington: TWIC Pass’
    • Eem Triplin – ‘Coming Undone’
    • Hulvey – ‘He Will Return’
    • Warhol.ss – ‘STILL’
    • 448 Gotti – ‘Mr. Mike’
    • Big Sad 1900, DJ Gutta Butta – ‘SAD CITY’

    Which new release are you adding to your weekend playlist? Let us know your favorite tracks from this New Music Friday in the comments below!

  • Hit-Boy & Alchemist Drop “GOLDFISH”

    Get ready, hip-hop heads! Two titans of the production world, Hit-Boy and The Alchemist, have joined forces not just behind the boards, but also on the mic, to deliver their brand new joint album, “GOLDFISH.” Released on October 24, 2025, this project is a masterclass in lyrical prowess and sonic innovation.

    From Producers to Emcees

    What makes “GOLDFISH” particularly special is seeing two of the most respected producers in the game step fully into the spotlight as emcees. Hit-Boy and The Alchemist trade verses and craft beats across 15 tracks, proving their creative range extends far beyond their legendary production credits. This is a rare and exciting display of their multifaceted talents.

    The album’s central concept revolves around the feeling of being stuck in a cycle, like a goldfish swimming in circles. This theme is explored through their lyrics, offering a unique perspective on artistic struggle and breakthrough. It’s a project that showcases their growth and willingness to push boundaries.

    A Star-Studded Collaboration List

    Beyond the core duo, “GOLDFISH” boasts an impressive lineup of collaborators who add even more depth and flavor to the project. You’ll hear from seasoned artists like Havoc, Boldy James, and Conway The Machine, alongside Jay Worthy and even Hit-Boy’s father, Big Hit. This curated list of features ensures a rich and diverse listening experience.

    • Mick & Cooley (feat. Conway The Machine)
    • Celebration Moments (feat. Havoc)
    • Not Much (feat. Boldy James)
    • Drawing Bridges (feat. Johnathan Hulett)
    • All Gas No Brakes (feat. Jay Worthy & Big Hit)

    A Symbol of Freedom and Reinvention

    For Hit-Boy, “GOLDFISH” marks a significant milestone as his first full-length release since concluding his 18-year publishing deal. This sense of liberation is palpable throughout the album. The project truly symbolizes freedom and reinvention for both Hit-Boy and The Alchemist, offering a fresh chapter in their illustrious careers.

    Have you listened to “GOLDFISH” yet? What are your favorite tracks from Hit-Boy and The Alchemist’s new album? Share your thoughts in the comments!

  • Mobb Deep’s ‘Infinite’: A Posthumous Masterpiece

    The line between honoring the past and being confined by it is a delicate one, especially when creating new music without a key collaborator. For Havoc, this became a central challenge when approaching a new Mobb Deep album following Prodigy’s passing. Yet, just a week after Pitchfork ranked “The Infamous” among the greatest rap albums ever, Havoc, alongside longtime Mobb Deep collaborator The Alchemist, has delivered “Infinite” – a final, triumphant offering for fans.

    A Holistic Approach to Honoring Prodigy

    In an era dominated by technology, the creation of an album using posthumous vocals presents unique challenges. However, “Infinite” adopts a holistic approach, channeling the undeniable synergy between Havoc and Prodigy. Havoc’s deep understanding of his partner-in-rhyme, combined with his early guidance to The Alchemist, created a blueprint that captures the essence of Mobb Deep’s enduring appeal in the volatile rap landscape.

    The project’s first two singles, “Against The World” and “Taj Mahal,” immediately resonated, acknowledging both the void left by Prodigy and Havoc’s intuitive ability to carry the torch while honoring his legacy. “Against The World,” with its triumphant yet muted choral sample and trumpet, allows Prodigy’s cool presence to shine through Havoc’s production, capturing the quintessential Mobb Deep chemistry even after seven years apart.

    Reflection, Evolution, and Grown-Man Rap

    The album maintains a militaristic attitude reminiscent of Mobb Deep’s classics like “Survival of the Fittest,” but viewed through a lens of reflection. “Taj Mahal” sees The Alchemist on production, with Prodigy delivering sharp-tongued bravado while Havoc cleverly references “The Infamous.” The project excels in its sensitive and mindful handling of Prodigy’s verses, creating a safe space that doesn’t necessarily push sonic boundaries but avoids regression.

    Nas and Havoc elevate mafioso rap into a mature narrative, with references to lifestyle choices that feel more aligned with classic mob films than early hip-hop tropes. Tracks like “Down for You” and its sequel, featuring Jorja Smith and H.E.R., explore seduction with grown-and-sexy wordplay. While Prodigy’s presence on “Down for You” feels slightly dated compared to the R&B features, Havoc’s production expands his palette without sacrificing grit, keeping the album rooted in hip-hop’s underground purity.

    Cinematic Tension and Collaborative Energy

    “Infinite” also features collaborations that highlight Mobb Deep’s lasting influence. “Look At Me” sees Clipse joining Havoc and Pusha T trading verses with cinematic tension, reminiscent of “The Infamous.” The reunion of Raekwon and Ghostface with Havoc and Prodigy on “Clear Black Nights” showcases four hip-hop giants trading vivid verses, complemented by Havoc’s hypnotic loops. While their energy differs slightly from Havoc and Prodigy’s grounded gratitude, it adds a rich layer to the project.

    The inclusion of Big Noyd on “The M, The O, The B, The B” ties the project back to Mobb Deep’s origins. Throughout “Infinite,” a palpable tension exists between Havoc’s artistic evolution and the timelessness of Prodigy’s voice. Tracks like “Pour The Henny” highlight Prodigy’s prophetic awareness of his legacy, with lyrics like, “I lived a full life, don’t cry for me.” While we can only speculate on what a 2025 Mobb Deep album might have sounded like with Prodigy, “Infinite” serves as a powerful testament to the foundation Havoc and Prodigy built, honoring their inception and ensuring their influence continues.

    What are your thoughts on Mobb Deep’s ‘Infinite’? Does it live up to the legacy? Share your review in the comments below!

  • Jill Scott, DJ Premier, The Alchemist Pay Tribute to D’Angelo

    The music community is in mourning following the tragic news of R&B icon D’Angelo’s passing at the age of 51. After a private battle with pancreatic cancer, the legendary artist has left behind an indelible legacy. Fans and peers alike have taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes, celebrating his life and profound impact on music.

    Tributes from Music Icons

    Esteemed artists such as Jill Scott, DJ Premier, and The Alchemist have shared their grief and admiration for D’Angelo. DJ Premier expressed his sadness, writing, “Such a sad loss to the passing of D’angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’ Love You KING.” Jill Scott tweeted her condolences, stating, “I told you a long time ago-You ain’t gon understand everything & everything ain’t meant 4 U ,nor I, to understand. I never met D’Angelo but I love him, respect him, admire his gift. This loss HURTS!! Love to my family that are family to him. I’m so sorry. R.I.P. GENIUS.”

    Other notable figures, including Marc Lamont Hill, Flavor Flav, Tyler, The Creator, Nile Rodgers, Doja Cat, and Missy Elliott, have also shared touching tributes, reflecting the widespread respect and admiration D’Angelo commanded within the industry. Marc Lamont Hill shared, “My sources tell me that D’Angelo has passed. Wow. I have no words. May he rest in perfect peace.”

    A Legacy of Soulful Music

    D’Angelo’s family confirmed his passing in an emotional statement to Variety, requesting privacy during their time of mourning. “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,” the statement read. “After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025.”

    The family expressed their gratitude for the “legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind” and asked for respect for their privacy while inviting the public to join in celebrating his life and the gift of his songs. D’Angelo’s contributions to R&B and soul music have left an enduring mark, influencing generations of artists and fans.

    What are your favorite D’Angelo songs or memories? Share your tributes in the comments below to honor his incredible legacy.

  • El Cousteau Drops “Dirty Harry 2” ft. A$AP Rocky

    Get ready, because the DMV area’s own El Cousteau is back and bringing the heat! He’s just dropped the highly anticipated sequel to his 2023 project, “Dirty Harry,” and this time he’s brought some serious star power along for the ride. “Dirty Harry 2” is packed with features from some of the biggest names in hip-hop, proving Cousteau’s buzz is only getting louder.

    A Star-Studded Lineup

    Since 2024, El Cousteau’s profile has been on a steady rise, and this new mixtape is a testament to that growth. The D.C. native has managed to pull in an incredible lineup for “Dirty Harry 2.” You’ll find features from none other than A$AP Rocky and Earl Sweatshirt, alongside fellow DMV artist Niontay. Plus, the legendary producer The Alchemist is on board for some production credits.

    The Alchemist’s touch is immediately apparent on the opener and lead single, “Menace to Society.” It’s a prime example of Uncle Al’s signature style, featuring a killer electric guitar loop that sets an energetic tone. While the beat is simple, El Cousteau’s performance truly elevates it, showcasing his dynamic approach to each track.

    Cousteau’s Energetic Performance

    It’s clear that El Cousteau is the star of his own show, and he approaches every song with a unique cadence. This unpredictability is what makes the project so engaging. He really shines as the lead artist, delivering performances that keep you hooked from start to finish. His versatility keeps the listener guessing, which is a major strength.

    A Minor Quibble: Song Lengths

    If there’s one small critique to be made, it’s the shorter run times of some of the tracks. While the original “Dirty Harry” also featured concise songs, we were hoping for a bit more substance on this bigger-budget follow-up. Tracks like “Straight To It,” “Quid Pro Quo,” and “Rose Ave.” (featuring Niontay) are packed with great ideas and killer beats, but they barely break the two-minute mark.

    It leaves you wanting more, wishing you could spend a bit longer immersed in the gritty beats and Cousteau’s zany vocals. However, even with these shorter durations, the overall listening experience is undeniably fun, largely thanks to Cousteau’s unpredictable energy and the quality of the production.

    Tracklist Highlights

    • Menace to Society
    • Quid Pro Quo
    • Straight To It
    • YeaYeaYea
    • Supa Cousteau (feat. A$AP Rocky)
    • 6 cornrows
    • Pico (feat. Earl Sweatshirt)
    • Rose Ave. (feat. Niontay)
    • Marina Del Rey
    • A Good Laugh
    • Cause & Effect

    From the hard-hitting opener to the collaborations with hip-hop heavyweights, “Dirty Harry 2” is a project that showcases El Cousteau’s talent and ambition. It’s a must-listen for fans of DMV hip-hop and anyone looking for fresh, energetic new music.

    Have you listened to El Cousteau’s “Dirty Harry 2” yet? What are your favorite tracks? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Nas Announces New Mobb Deep Album ‘Infinite’

    Hip-hop heads, get ready! Nas and his Mass Appeal label are continuing their mission to bring classic sounds back with the announcement of a new, posthumous Mobb Deep album. Titled ‘Infinite,’ this project is set to drop soon as part of Nas’s ‘Legend Has It…’ series, which has already blessed fans with new music from other hip-hop legends.

    A Tribute to Prodigy and Havoc

    This upcoming release marks the first Mobb Deep album since the tragic passing of Prodigy in 2017. The legendary Queensbridge duo’s last album together was released in 2014, making ‘Infinite’ a highly anticipated project for fans eager to hear new material from the iconic group. The announcement came via an Instagram post from Nas, featuring a brief trailer narrated by Havoc.

    In the trailer, Havoc reflects on the creative process, stating, “We didn’t have no choice but to make ill songs. We really dug deep and was like, ‘Aight, let’s do it, man, with these lyrics, the beats.’” Nas captioned the post with a direct nod to the duo: “@mobbdeepqb Against The World #Infinite coming soon.”

    Star-Studded Production and Hype

    Adding to the excitement, the entire ‘Infinite’ LP was produced by a powerhouse duo: Mobb Deep’s own Havoc and the acclaimed producer The Alchemist. Havoc recently shared on Drink Champs that the project is officially done, mixed, and mastered, ready for release. The Alchemist also expressed his enthusiasm, noting the depth of Prodigy’s rhymes and how ahead of his time he was.

    The ‘Legend Has It…’ series, announced by Nas and Mass Appeal in April, aims to reintroduce and celebrate influential artists from the late 80s and 90s. So far, the series has featured Slick Rick’s ‘VICTORY’ and Raekwon’s ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes.’ Following Mobb Deep’s ‘Infinite,’ fans can anticipate projects from Big L, De La Soul, and a collaboration tape between Nas and DJ Premier, with potentially one more unrevealed project.

    Are you excited for the new Mobb Deep album? What are your favorite Mobb Deep tracks? Let us know in the comments below!

  • The Alchemist on Gaza: Why He Stays Out of the Spotlight

    You know how sometimes the world feels like it’s shouting, and everyone expects you to add your voice to the loudest argument? Well, legendary producer The Alchemist recently sat down to talk about just that, specifically regarding the intense situation in Gaza. While many artists feel the pressure to weigh in on global conflicts, he shared his perspective on why he often stays out of the public debate.

    Why the Silence on Gaza?

    In a recent interview with Rolling Stone’s Andre Gee, The Alchemist addressed why he doesn’t feel compelled to make public statements about the violence in Gaza. The conversation kicked off when Gee asked about the producer highlighting “Free Palestine. F*ck The Police” graffiti in one of his YouTube documentaries. The Alchemist’s response was straightforward: “Never really was that type of artist.” He clarified that while he believes everyone suffering injustice deserves freedom, he avoids taking public stances on specific, highly charged geopolitical issues.

    He explained that there’s often a lot of confusion and misinformation surrounding these topics, which makes him hesitant to engage. “People always try to get into it,” he noted. “There’s a lot of misinformation. That’s why I stay away from it.” He emphasized that seeing the graffiti in his documentary was a reflection of what fans were saying, not necessarily his own direct political endorsement.

    Focusing on Love, Peace, and Music

    The Alchemist, born Jewish, stressed that his focus remains on universal themes. “I was born Jewish, my family, everybody knows my history, but I’m about love, peace, my family, music, creativity, art,” he stated. This philosophy guides his approach to life and his art, aiming to put something positive into the world.

    He’s wary of being forced into an agenda, preferring to let his music and creative output speak for themselves. “People forcing you to be a part of an agenda one way or another, I’m not really into,” he admitted. His commitment is to standing against injustice wherever it occurs, but he does so without necessarily engaging in public political commentary.

    What’s Next for The Alchemist and Freddie Gibbs?

    This conversation comes on the heels of The Alchemist teaming up with Freddie Gibbs for their latest collaborative album, “Alfredo 2.” Released on July 25, 2025, it’s the highly anticipated sequel to their 2020 project and their third full-length collaboration overall, following “Fetti” in 2018. Fans will be happy to hear that the duo isn’t done yet!

    Freddie Gibbs hinted in the same interview that more music is on the way. “We still got more to do,” he shared. “Sh*t, we going do deluxes, all this sh*t. We going to ride this motherf*cker out.” So, while The Alchemist might be selective about his public commentary on global affairs, his musical output with Gibbs promises to keep fans engaged.

    What are your thoughts on artists speaking out versus focusing on their craft? Share your perspective in the comments below!