Chip Da Ripper has made it a long way from being “Kid Cudi’s homie”. He has parlayed his rhyming ability into releasing mixtapes and adding
to his income with features and touring. Yet, he hasn’t “broken out” quite yet. He hasn’t reached that zenith that would make him into the undeniable force within hip hop. So, with Tell Ya Friends,one of the main goals is to have people understand that he has what it takes to be in this rat race.

After listening to Tell Ya Friends, I realize that this isn’t the mixtape that will actually do it. He’s not wack by any means. But he still hasn’t found that “zone” where listeners find his music “that undeniable”. The subject matter stays pedestrian (money, hoes, and the usual for the most part). But that isn’t an issue. More than anything, the production tends to be just “okay” or “good”.

This is not to say that there isn’t some dope music on here. “25 Wives” works because the production is seductive and the subject matter works over all. “Glory Us” uses a vocal sample that is so worked over that it’s the driving force for a simple jam. “Boomshakalaka” makes use of synths, vocal samples and a groove that is more encompassing than anything. In turn, there are some gems on this mixtape to find it worthwhile.

It is safe to say that Tell Ya Friends will probably impress those that already like Chip Da Ripper. But will it bring in new listeners? Only time will tell. The problem will still lie within the beats enhancing his lyrical lashings. He needs his production to be something to entrance his listener. Great music is more than the fusion of beats and rhymes. Having the fusion of engrossing music and on point music makes music go to the heights. In the end, Chip Da Ripper will have to make that composition that has all around great music.

 

 

To download Tell Ya Friends, go to livemixtapes.com!

 

 

Article written by contributing writer for STACKS Magazine, Mark A. Harris.