In the turbulent world of hip-hop, few artists are able to make the transition from hot young star to acclaimed rap
luminary. Los Angeles emcee Blu has followed this rare path, graduating from a spot on the 2009 XXL
Freshman list to an expansive catalog with more than 25 celebrated releases. Now, the talented lyricist is
celebrating his remarkable journey with Forty, a new album entirely produced by influential beatsmith August
Fanon, who has crafted tracks for Westside Gunn, Mach-Hommy, Tha God Fahim, billy woods, Navy
Blue, and more. “This album is a celebration of me reaching 40 years of age,” Blu explains. “All the content is
a reflection of where I am mentally at the age of 40.” With intricate verses packed with wisdom and maturity, the
collection finds Blu and a host of guests reflecting on happiness, religion, love, knowledge, humanity, and more.
Fanon brings these tracks to life with a unique production approach, taking it back to basics with soul heavy
soundscapes Blu describes as “straight loops, no drum programming or layers, just really soulful loops.” With
appearances by Kota The Friend, Asher Roth, R.A.P. Ferreira, Mickey Factz, Homeboy Sandman,
Chester Watson, Fashawn, and more, Forty is a timless experience from an artist who remains a vital
presence in any decade of life.[info sheet from distr.]