Troubadour. Same K'NAAN?

Good Morning,

I haven't been feeling very inspired lately and have not created a new post to this blog in a minute. My spark was just released yesterday. As many of the readers of this resurgent blog know, K'NAAN just came out with his second cd, entitled Troubador. My circle has been eagerly awaiting this album. Surprisingly, K's popularity has been on the rise. I heard that his vidoes were featured on MTV. As a side, I have to say I wouldn't know whether or not this is true because I can proudly say that I have not watched that channel in over two years.

Anywho, increased popularity of any independent or underground artist gives rise to concern. Will he succumb to the temptation to compromise his music to reach a wider audience? Will he be manipulated to do so? Is there something about him or his music that leads you to believe that he will or will not be able to resist these pressures?


As for the album, I have to say up front that I'm really feeling it. I don't know if it's because it is one of the best albums I have heard in a while or if I have just been feenin' for some new K'NAAN stuff for two and a half years. I'm giving myself time to develop an objective view of the record. At the same time, I'm looking over the album for signs of an upcoming new jack swing toward larger mainstream appeal. I think the song Bang, Bang may be an indication of his ability to make pop-rockish music. The song's lack of hip hop appeal or his niche mother Africa focus may indicate some intent to develop such a sound.

To be honest with myself, I have no idea what this man will decide to do. I'm hoping that he will continue to improve his wordplay while continually educating us ignorant westerners with his seemingly exotic background. I think there is so much potential for hip hop with a global focus. On his new album, "Fifteen Minutes Away" simply nails it. The topic of a money transfer probably has not been explored in hip hop and his delivery blends with the whimsical sound well. I also really enjoy "Fatima" and "Fire in Freetown."

Well, I'm done rambling for today. Thanks to K'NAAN for waking up this blog. Keep doing what you do baby and please don't go pop.

Thoughts?

S O NE