I love when indie artists are serious about their craft, and 99.9% of us are. As an indie artist, I know how hard–and sometimes expensive–being one can be. Yes, even my older super no-fi sound took money to perfect. But when you finally reach a place where you can reflect, it’s a beautiful thing. You deserve to stop and take it in. However, it makes you hungry. At least, it should. And that hunger, it’ll drive you to do things you would’ve never thought possible even just a year ago. You may even F around and stumble into a goldmine with a feature, viral hit, or a soulful cut.

Speaking of, I absolutely love when indie artists can link with bigger names and hold their own. It’s always a dope vibe when you hear artists putting out A+ work at once–one a new(er) face, one a grizzled vet. Thus is the case in C.R’s Westside Boogie collaboration, “The Road Ahead.” From the very beginning of the San Fernando Valley rapper’s track, we hear a soulful beat that’s a mix between boombap and a bit of West Coast vibes. It reminds me a bit, at least in its mood, of Kendrick Lamar’s “heart pt. 6.” Just off the beat alone, I’d be a fan of this one. It’s familiar yet distinct and doesn’t just sound like anything and everything else, like the Kendrick song.

And then the lyrics come in and I sit down, shut up and absorb it all.

It’s a celebration of the things that’ve brought C.R to this moment in his career, but also a toast to things to come. I like that he doesn’t come off as braggy about his current status. Instead, he opts to say “this is cool. Now I’m going even higher.” It’s that sort of determination that feeds the lyrics throughout. Boogie’s verse contemplates his own place in the game while also stating he’s just beginning. I think that artists, rappers especially, we never really advance to an end point. Yes, we get to peaks and stop to admire the views. Many of us can’t really quit it, even if we tried. What I mean is this: we keep going and growing. The music may not get the same amount of views (or any if you’re “retired” and just spitting to stay sharp), but when you’re blessed with creativity? Not only is it an outlet and a way to expand, it’s a way to stay connected with the world while still making your own mark.

You need something to play while you’re beginning your next trek? I think this is the one. Check it out above and remember to support dope music in all its forms. And, if you like this song, I recommend checking out C.R’s discography as it is now and as it continues to grow.