Midwest Rap is The Underdog Region Taking Over the Game

When people think of hip-hop hotbeds, cities like New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles are often the first to come to mind. But those who have been paying attention know there’s something special brewing in the Midwest. From Chicago to Detroit, St. Louis to Cleveland, and even smaller hubs like Toledo and Indianapolis, Midwest rap is on the rise—and it’s about time the world took notice.

As someone who has lived in the Midwest for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how the region’s culture, grit, and storytelling translate into music. It’s raw. It’s real. It’s not trying to imitate anyone else—it’s authentic to the core. The Midwest has always been home to hardworking, blue-collar communities, and that energy pulses through the beats and lyrics of its artists.

The Bean in Downtown Chicago, Illinois

Chicago: Setting Trends for Decades

Take Chicago, for instance. You can’t talk about Midwest rap without mentioning its undeniable influence. From Kanye West’s soulful production and lyricism to the Drill scene pioneered by Chief Keef and G Herbo, Chicago has been setting trends for decades. But Chicago is just the beginning.

Detroit’s Grit and Fearless Storytelling

Look at Detroit, a vibrant city that has consistently produced some of the most innovative and unique voices in the world of hip-hop. Eminem may have played a significant role in putting Detroit on the map globally, but the next generation of talented artists—such as Big Sean, Tee Grizzley, and Babyface Ray—have continually contributed to and kept the city’s distinctive sound evolving with their fresh perspectives. Detroit’s beats are not only gritty but also richly layered, its flows are undeniably fearless, and its storytelling is truly unparalleled, capturing the essence of the urban experience like no other.

And let’s not forget other Midwest pioneers and rising stars. St. Louis had its moment with Nelly and the St. Lunatics, but the new wave of talent in cities like Kansas City, Cleveland, and Indianapolis is undeniable. These artists are blending traditional Midwest influences with modern production styles, creating a sound that’s entirely their own.

The Midwest Thrives on Diversity

What makes Midwest rap so special is its versatility. There’s no singular “Midwest sound”—instead, the region thrives on diversity. Some artists are rooted in soulful, introspective lyrics; others lean into hard-hitting, street-influenced anthems. The region draws from its rich musical history, from Motown to gospel to funk, giving its hip-hop a depth and range that stands out in today’s scene.

Breaking Through Industry Barriers

But let’s be real—Midwest rap hasn’t always gotten the respect it deserves. For years, it’s been overshadowed by the East and West Coasts, or by Atlanta’s dominance in the South. The industry didn’t always make room for Midwest artists, and they had to fight harder to break through. Now, though, that underdog spirit is part of what makes the region so compelling. There’s an authenticity in the Midwest that can’t be faked.

Social Media’s Role in Midwest Rap’s Explosion

It’s also worth mentioning how platforms like YouTube and TikTok have played a role in leveling the playing field. Midwest artists no longer have to rely on coastal gatekeepers to reach their audience—they’re finding fans directly. These platforms have helped amplify voices that might have been overlooked in the past, and Midwest talent is shining because of it.

Why the Midwest Is Leading the Conversation

So, why is the Midwest rap scene exploding now? The answer is simple: people are finally starting to see what we’ve known all along. The Midwest has stories to tell, and its artists aren’t afraid to tell them. This region isn’t just contributing to hip-hop—it’s reshaping it.

As a creative who calls the Midwest home, it’s inspiring to see the rise of these artists. They’re putting us on the map in ways that go far beyond music. They’re showing the world that the Midwest is more than flyover country—it’s a force to be reckoned with.

Get to Know Midwest Rap Now

If you haven’t been paying attention to Midwest rap, now’s the time. Because we’re not just part of the conversation anymore—we’re leading it.

What’s your favorite Midwest artist? Let me know in the comments, and let’s celebrate the region that’s always been underestimated—but never outdone.

Childish Gambino: Daft Punk & The Magnetic Fields Fusion

Introduction

Childish Gambino, the musical alias of Donald Glover, has always been a name associated with creativity, innovation, and versatility. His latest album continues this trend, refusing to be pigeonholed into a single genre. Instead, Gambino creates a rich tapestry of sound that draws inspiration from a wide range of musical influences. This genre-defying approach not only sets him apart from his contemporaries but also cements his place as one of the most dynamic artists in modern music. In this blog, we'll explore how Childish Gambino transcends traditional genre boundaries, particularly with nods to the distinctive sounds of Daft Punk and The Magnetic Fields.

A Genre-Defying Journey

From the outset of his career, Childish Gambino has demonstrated a remarkable ability to blend different genres, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. Whether it’s the introspective hip-hop of Camp, the funk-infused rhythms of Awaken, My Love!, or the experimental electronic beats of his latest album, Gambino has consistently pushed the boundaries of what modern music can be.

In his latest work, Gambino takes this eclectic approach to new heights. The album doesn’t just borrow elements from different genres—it actively resists being confined to any one of them. Tracks flow seamlessly from soulful R&B to gritty rap, from electronic experimentation to indie pop, all while maintaining a cohesive narrative thread. This refusal to be boxed into a single genre allows Gambino to explore a vast array of sounds and emotions, making the album an immersive and unpredictable experience.

Echoes of Daft Punk: The Electronic Pulse

One of the most striking elements of this album is its use of electronic music, reminiscent of the iconic sounds of Daft Punk. Known for their innovative approach to electronic music, Daft Punk has influenced countless artists with their blend of house, funk, and disco. On Gambino’s album, we hear echoes of this influence in tracks that feature pulsating synths, robotic vocals, and infectious grooves.

For instance, in a track like "Real Love," the production feels like a direct homage to Daft Punk’s Discovery era, where the lines between organic and synthetic sounds are blurred. The robotic vocal effects, combined with the futuristic beats, create a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking, much like Daft Punk’s signature style. Yet, Gambino doesn’t merely imitate—he builds on these influences, infusing his own unique flair and lyrical depth into the mix.

The Magnetic Fields: Indie Pop Sensibilities

While the electronic elements of the album nod to Daft Punk, there’s also a distinct influence from the indie pop world, particularly The Magnetic Fields. Known for their witty, literate lyrics and minimalist instrumentation, The Magnetic Fields have a cult following for their ability to convey deep emotion with a simple, yet effective, sound.

Gambino continues channels this indie pop sensibility in several tracks, where the focus shifts from complex production to more stripped-down, melodic arrangements. In these moments, the influence of The Magnetic Fields is palpable, especially in the way Gambino uses his voice as a central instrument, delivering poignant, introspective lyrics that resonate on a deeply personal level. Tracks like "No Excuses (feat. Ludwig Göransson)" and "Dadvocate" exemplify this, with their lo-fi aesthetics and emotionally charged vocals, reminiscent of The Magnetic Fields' most intimate work.

A Synthesis of Sound

What makes this album truly remarkable is how Childish Gambino weaves together these diverse influences into a cohesive masterpiece. The electronic pulse reminiscent of Daft Punk, the indie pop charm inspired by The Magnetic Fields, and Gambino’s unique style all merge seamlessly. The album also draws on the genre-blurring innovation seen in Beyoncé’s Lemonade and Cowboy Carter and the introspective depth of Frank Ocean’s Blonde, resulting in a sound that defies easy categorization.

By refusing to be confined to a single genre, Gambino not only showcases his versatility as an artist but also encourages listeners to expand their musical boundaries. The result is an album that’s as unpredictable as it is satisfying—a sonic journey that feels simultaneously familiar and refreshingly new, echoing the groundbreaking work of Beyoncé and Frank Ocean while remaining distinctly Gambino.

Conclusion

Childish Gambino’s latest album is a testament to the power of musical exploration. By blending the sounds of Daft Punk, The Magnetic Fields, and a myriad of other influences, Gambino has crafted a work that is both genre-defying and deeply personal. It’s an album that doesn’t just reflect the diversity of modern music but actively contributes to its evolution. In a world where music often feels homogenized, Gambino’s refusal to be boxed into a single genre is not only refreshing but necessary. This album invites us to listen more closely, to appreciate the artistry behind the sound, and to embrace the beauty of musical diversity.

This playlist is more than just a collection of songs—it's a journey through the genre-defying artistry that connects these incredible musicians. Dive in, press play, and let the music take you to new sonic heights.

The Melodic Magic: How Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar Enhance Photoshoots

In the realm of photography, capturing the perfect shot often involves more than just technical prowess, the right lighting, or an ideal location.

One often overlooked yet profoundly impactful element is music. As photographers sketch images with light, music can amplify emotions, set the mood, and elevate the overall experience for both the photographer and the subject. Here’s why integrating music into photoshoots can be a game-changer.

Crafting the Atmosphere Imagine walking into a photoshoot set and being greeted by silence or random ambient noise versus stepping into a space filled with carefully curated tunes. Music breathes life into the environment. Whether it’s an upbeat pop song, a soothing instrumental, or edgy rock, the soundtrack sets the tone.

High-Energy Vibes

Upbeat music boosts the atmosphere, encouraging fun and energetic photos. Fast-paced tracks make models feel lively and adventurous, leading to more dynamic and expressive shots.

I’m not typically considered a “high-energy" person, so it’s SUPER important for me to listen to music with high BPM, so I can bring the energy necessary for a good, efficient photoshoot.

Elegance and Poise: On the flip side, classical music or slow jazz can bring an air of sophistication and serenity, encouraging graceful poses and calm expressions. For those striving to capture the elegance of bridal shoots or high-fashion editorials, music can be an essential tool to foster the right mood.

Enhancing Emotional Connection: Music has the power to evoke deep emotions and transport people to different states of mind. When a subject connects emotionally with the music being played, this connection often translates into more authentic and emotive portraits. A song that resonates with the subject can help them open up, be more vulnerable, and express a wider range of emotions naturally. Whether it be the Reputation album by Taylor Swift or “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar, if theres’s an emotional connection to the music, the person’s mood will shift.

Reputation by Taylor Swift (personally, my favorite album of hers)

I used to play “Godspeed” by Frank Ocean whenever parents were in the studio for their child’s senior pictures right after spending some time talking about how “next year’s going to be so different now that you’re going to have a high school graduate and how they’re going to be growing up SO fast!”

Easing Nerves and Building Rapport: A photoshoot can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially for those not used to being in front of the camera. Music acts as a comfort blanket, easing initial jitters and helping subjects feel more at ease. When people are more relaxed, it’s easier for photographers to build rapport and trust, resulting in more cooperative and enjoyable sessions.

Breaking the Ice: Soft background music can help break the ice, creating an informal, relaxed environment where subjects can be themselves.

Focus and Distraction: Background music can provide a subtle distraction, helping subjects focus less on the camera’s intimidating lens and more on the feeling the music evokes.

Creative Inspiration Music can serve as a muse for photographers as well. Just as a director uses a film score to enhance storytelling, photographers can use music to inspire creativity and guide the thematic direction of a shoot. A particular song or genre might spark ideas for poses, locations, and even post-production edits.

Synchronizing Movements: Shooting with a rhythm can build a harmonious sync between the photographer and the subject. Music can act as a metronome, facilitating smoother movements and transitions. This rhythmic flow is especially beneficial during fashion and dance photography where capturing fluid motion is crucial.

Personal Touch: Allowing subjects to contribute to the playlist can add a personal touch, making the session more tailored and enjoyable. When individuals hear their favorite songs, they are likely to feel more connected to the moment, bringing out their best selves.

The marriage of music and photography makes for an immersive artistic experience. Music has the unique ability to shape the atmosphere, influence emotions, and enhance both the subjects' and the photographer’s creativity. As we explore new ways to innovate in the world of visual arts, the role of music during photoshoots is undeniably one of the melodious secrets to achieving captivating and emotionally resonant photographs. So next time you prepare for a shoot, don’t forget to pack your playlist along with your lens kit. You may find that the perfect soundtrack is the missing piece to creating visual magic.

Scientists have found that songs with BPM rates between 115-140 have been proven to boost creativity, heighten concentration, and get your brain to its "eureka moment". If you’re a fan of hip-hop, and don’t mind some swear words, then feel free to save this Spotify playlist that I created to ensure that you’re listening to music that optimizes your creative flow.

Lastly, if you’re looking for some equipment that’s going to change your next photoshoot, then I recommend getting the Ultimate Ear Boom 4! This waterproof speaker has some of the best & clearest sound that I’ve heard from a Bluetooth speaker! Not just that but since it’s waterproof, I don’t have to worry about it getting damaged if left out in the rain or when I’m out on-location with places with bodies of water. One charge and the battery last so long too!

Mastering Portrait Lighting with One Light: Position Guide

When it comes to portrait photography, lighting is key to capturing a stunning image. The way light falls on a subject can dramatically change the mood and impact of a photograph. While multiple light setups are commonly used in professional studios, mastering the art of lighting with just one light source can be incredibly rewarding and efficient. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of lighting position for portrait photography when using only one light.

Positioning the light source is crucial in creating depth, contrast, and dimension in your portraits. One of the most common lighting setups with one light is the use of a key light, which can be positioned at various angles relative to the subject. Here are a few key lighting positions and their effects on the final portrait:

1. Front Lighting:

2. Split Lighting:

Moving the light to the side of the subject can create more dramatic shadows and highlights. This setup is great for emphasizing textures and contours on the face, as well as creating a sense of depth and volume..

Placing the light directly in front of the subject can produce a flat, even lighting on the face. This setup is ideal for minimizing shadows, but it can lack dimension and depth compared to other lighting positions.

3. Loop Lighting:

Similar to Rembrandt lighting, loop lighting involves positioning the light at a 45-degree angle to the side of the subject. However, in loop lighting, the shadow of the nose creates a loop-like pattern on the cheek, hence the name. This setup is flattering for most facial shapes and adds a soft, romantic feel to the portrait.

4. Rembrandt Lighting:

Named after the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt lighting is achieved by placing the light at a 45-degree angle to the side of the subject, creating a triangle of light on the cheek opposite the light source. This setup is ideal for adding a touch of elegance and classic beauty to your portraits.

5. Butterfly (or Paramount) Lighting:

In butterfly lighting, the light is placed directly in front of and above the subject, casting a small butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose. This setup is popular in glamour photography and can create a flattering, symmetrical look on the face. Experimenting with different lighting positions can help you discover the most flattering and impactful setup for your subjects. Remember that the quality of the light, its intensity, and the distance from the subject also play crucial roles in shaping the final outcome of your portraits.

In conclusion, mastering portrait photography with just one light can be a rewarding challenge that allows you to focus on the fundamentals of lighting and composition. By understanding the various lighting positions and their effects, you can elevate your portrait photography skills and create captivating images that truly stand out. So grab your camera, set up your one light source, and let your creativity shine through in your next portrait session!