Hip-hop is one of those genres where it’s a game that’s not a game. Considering some elements of hip-hop came from roasting sessions, I totally get this point a view. I mean, look at any rap battle. It’s literally folks spitting hot fire about the other person. Plus, you know, a lot of rappers want to continuously prove they’re the MVP of this rap s***.

Now take into consideration 2LU’s “4PLAY” as an example of this friendly competitiveness.

It’s like a mix between Doja Cat and Kendrick with a touch of Nicki and J. Cole in there as well. It’s fun and it’s bouncy with some pop sensibilities and even a bit of singing a la early Nicki and 2020s Doja Cat. However, like many of the songs I’ve posted this weekend, you know what else it has? BARS for days. Dear God, this track is lyrically dense in that it has a lot to dissect and it’s one of those “you need to hear this a few times” songs. And it’s catchy, so you won’t feel like it’s a chore to re-listen and hear all the punchlines and rhyme schemes.

All of this is from a person who hasn’t really even picked up the pen for a living/for real for real yet. Nope. 2LUs’ songs are, apparently, still considered “a fun hobby” for her. I actually like that. Why? Simply put, she hasn’t been (bar-wise or sonically) corrupted by that “I absolutely have to be the best” gift/curse that comes with rappers who do it for more than just to spit bars. That said, she’s still a part of the competition. With bars like these and a control of the beat like this? She very well could end up getting hot on your favorite DSP. I mean, anyone who has heart like this? Yeah, they’re definitely going to end up doing this for more than just a hobby.

Check it out above and support dope music in all its forms.