The Artists Behind “Wet Roads”: Evidence, Elzhi, and 60 East
In the dynamic world of hip-hop, there are artists who not only craft beats and lyrics, but also leave an indelible mark on the culture. Among them are Evidence, Elzhi, and 60 East, each bringing their own unique flavor to the genre.
Evidence: A True Hip-Hop Luminary
As a solo artist and a vital member of Dilated Peoples, Evidence stands tall as a rapper and producer with an impressive track record. His collaborations span across a diverse range of artists, from Domo Genesis to Linkin Park, showcasing his versatility. Notably, Evidence earned a Grammy Award for co-producing Kanye’s iconic “College Dropout” and two JUNO Awards for his contributions to Canadian Hip-Hop group Swollen Members. Beyond music, he’s gained acclaim as a photographer, with a massive following on Instagram. His work has been featured by renowned streetwear brands and even Dos Equis. Currently, his captivating visuals are on display in the vibrant streets of Watts, CA, at the esteemed LocoL restaurant owned by celebrity chef Roy Choi.
While Evidence has evolved, he remains rooted in the essence of hip-hop culture – blending clever wordplay with soulful, boom-bap production. His latest album, “Weather Or Not,” is a testament to this, featuring a stellar cast of producers and an impressive lineup of guest artists.
Elzhi: Detroit’s Defiant Lyricist
Hailing from Detroit, eLZhi is a true wordsmith and a vocal critic of commercial hip-hop. His journey began amidst the thriving underground hip-hop scene of late-’90s Detroit, collaborating with luminaries like Waajeed and Dwele. After making waves on Jay Dee’s groundbreaking album “Welcome 2 Detroit,” he joined the ranks of the revered Slum Village. As Jay Dee’s presence diversified, eLZhi seamlessly took on production duties, marking the group’s evolution.
His solo career kicked off with the 2008 release of “The Preface,” and since then, eLZhi’s lyricism has resonated deeply with hip-hop aficionados. His mixtape, “Elmatic,” paid tribute to Nas’ “Illmatic,” showcasing eLZhi’s lyrical prowess. He ventured into solo territory with “Lead Poison” in 2016, a project that further solidified his position as a vital figure in the rap scene.
60 East: A Convergence of Coasts
60 East emerges as a unique force in hip-hop, embodying the fusion of West Coast style with an East Coast flow. Hailing from the sprawling metropolis of Southern California’s Inland Empire, his talent has propelled him from his hometown of Ontario to stages around the world. His journey has been marked by collaborations with acclaimed artists like Evidence, 9th Wonder, Joell Ortiz, and more.
Notably, 60 East’s Freeway Series and debut album “10,000 Hours” are testaments to his dedication to the craft. Currently, he’s in the studio with Grammy-winning producer Evidence and putting the finishing touches on an album with Grammy-nominated producers Khrysis and Eric G.
Beyond music, 60 East is deeply invested in his community. He’s the founder of the Happiness of Pursuit Arts Foundation and the driving force behind the Happiness of Pursuit Festival, which has become a cornerstone event in the Inland Empire’s hip-hop scene.
“Wet Roads”: A Legendary Collaboration
“Wet Roads” is more than just a song; it’s a collaboration of legends. Evidence, Elzhi, and 60 East joined forces to create a track that not only showcases their individual brilliance but also brings their collective energy to the forefront. This lo-fi hip-hop masterpiece is a testament to their dedication to the craft.
With each artist bringing their own unique style and perspective to the table, “Wet Roads” stands as a shining example of the power of collaboration in the world of hip-hop.
