Bagboy Blu is an incredibly intricate and interesting artist who I’ve recently found through SubmitHub and the many submissions I receive. The way he carries himself demands respect and his songs are no different. This Upstate New York-based rapper uses intense real-life experiences and a very strong storytelling ability throughout his music. It’s done to create words that stick with you long after hearing them, imparting knowledge, empathy and the resolve to keep building yourself. His first two blew me away with their storytelling and wordplay, even though the subject matter was slightly out of my comfort zone.

I really wanted to post him for you all to experience it for yourselves. So, I asked if he’d consider submitting again to SOTB with the next track he released. That’s how we get his new song, “Chosen.” I won’t make any bad puns, I swear.

“Chosen” allows the wordsmith’s story to be just enough catharsis to not overwhelm first-time listeners. Honest rappers, as I know on both sides, can be a bit too honest every so often. We learn why he grinds as hard as he can when trying to make it. We hear of friends and time lost to various reasons. Bagboy Blu even manages to speak on an ever-evolving family in a way as well. And through it all, you’re moved to cheer his progression while also empathizing with his pain. It’s a completely honest and bare-it-all sort of track, just the type I like. It also helps that the production matches the emotions we hear on “Chosen.” The production has a distinct-but-contemporary New York sound. It’s familiar as well as fresh.

Overall, the song reminds me a lot of something you would’ve heard from Meek Mill during his more subdued cuts. It also brings to mind Kendrick in the introspection Blu provides us within the three-and-a-half minutes. What I mean is that it’s a banger, but with a purpose-driven mindset behind it. The beat knocks while the great rhyme schemes and the lyrics hit you like a jab with their honesty, heart, and soul. I honestly don’t think I need to say any more to make you all want to give “Chosen” a listen here and now.

Check out this one and support dope music in all its forms.