The cliché goes “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” I say “screw that, because that’s small fry.” You’ve got to make some lemonade, some lemon pie, maybe even put some lemon into your cleaning solution so everything smells citrusy. The point is: we’re only given one life to live (in this life, that is, if you’re into reincarnation). Why waste it doing the bare minimum?

Tyler Donavan is an example of someone who made a barrage of stuff out of his life lemons. The DMV native (specifically, a native from the VA side of things) has been on my radar for a hot minute. I quite literally mean that I’ve known of this man for years. I used to talk with him, NoFace and a couple other VA rap heads via Twitter and other social platforms. In 2018, Tyler underwent a spinal surgery. Things went a bit south and he was left with permanent nerve damage and paralyzed feet. I lost contact with him a bit, lost my Twitter account and then found Tyler again via a SubmitHub request. I got it and my face lit up like “damn, I remember him” and happily accepted the review request.

I bring that up because it plays perfectly into the theme of “CRESCENDO.” This one is truly a powerful song/visual and it’s one that showcases lyrical prowess. Tyler’s always had bars, but he takes it to the BARS level on this one. More importantly, though, the song presents a testament to the strength of determination and one’s will to keep pushing in the face of adversity.

Donavan has used every bit of his lemon haul to create something better than before. The self-directed video showcases Donavan reclaiming his dream to be a dope MC, his ability to walk and–in many ways–his life. From needing a wheelchair to needing no assistance, he’s pushing harder and hard. And while he is, the track just keeps building and building, just like the video’s inspirational imagery. Things keep flowing and growing until, well, we get a crescendo and see Tyler standing on his own two and delivering bars like he never left. It’s honestly one of those things that will get you in the feels–while also smacking you in the face with BARS.

When things go left, you’re given two choices. You can stew in your own sadness and lose yourself or you keep pushing until you make a comeback. Even if it’s hard as hell, you can’t just give in, as that comeback will be sweet. I’ve been on both sides of the fence. Let me tell you: the latter is the better option. If you need a healthy dose of motivation with a side of lyrically-dense hip-hop, check out “CRESCENDO” above and support dope music in all its forms.