Every artist has a story, but rarely does such compelling emotion, grounded in painstakingly honest lyrics and pinned to the center of truth, exhibit itself with such ease and elegance as it does on Cortez Lake’s new single, “Where I Come From.” Rising hip-hop artist serves up a song that is at once cinematic and personal, with hypnotic melodies matched by a motivational undercurrent that poignantly lingers long.
“Where I Come From” is slickly produced, with a hooky blend of hip-hop and R&B that is clean and radio-friendly, thanks to production that places Cortez Lake in the same category as today’s genre makers. The song begins with brooding, airy melodies that quickly establish a mood, languid yet atmospheric, a room wherein reflection and rhythm can coexist. From there, the bounce of the 808s does the rest, and what you’re left with are weight and energy behind the storytelling verses that illustrate images of struggle, growth, and self-esteem.
The production does a fine job of conveying the message effectively. Cinematic textures run throughout the mix, giving the track a widescreen sound. It’s all part of the balancing act between atmosphere and melody, the atmospheric line threading its way through the punch of the low-end so that you want to listen on headphones but also wish you could hear it out of speakers on a late-night drive. It’s all deliberate, from the precise vocal stacking to the dynamic swings that keep you engaged from start to finish.
It has one of those hooks that connects and clings. Bryson Tiller, Don Toliver, and Drake have had that same ability, arguably making Cortez Lake’s strength the ability to make other people’s stories seem like they’re born from themselves. It’s an anthem for all those who’ve had to fight for their dreams, filled with enough wisdom to believe that where you are from doesn’t determine where you are headed. On “Where I Come From,” Cortez Lake demonstrates that he’s carving out his own space with a blend of rawness and gloss. It’s a song that encourages, uplifts, and connects, so it’s a solid addition to any hip-hop or R&B playlist. It’s more a statement of identity and ambition, one that makes Cortez Lake an artist to watch.
Follow Cortez Lake on | Spotify |
