Set Your Mind Free With SY
We’re back with another artist discovery post and this time, it’s about the up and coming artist hailing from Orlando, SY. I’m not going to lie, I immediately updated my rotation after finding his music. The key to his appeal, and what peaked my interest, is his versatility, showcased throughout his catalog but I want to specifically focus on three songs: Set My Mind Free, Andale, and Late Night in the Goon.
SY is an artist that has many flows and doesn’t shy from melody. If I had to compare him to a mainstream artist, Bryson Tiller would come to mind if he rapped more, and if you don’t believe me, check out his song, Late Night in the Goon. SY displays the ability to blend rhythm and melody in this R&B inspired track. The song boasts boombapish drums with a booming bassline that gives it an ear catching groove that is complimented well by his approach to the song. With an R&B track with “Late Night” in the title, I’m sure you can imagine what it’s about. Play this song with a significant other on a late night drive and see where it leads.
The second song that displays SY’s versatility is Andale featuring JAHMED. In this song, he attacks the song as if he’s a rapper with something to prove. With a trap inspired banger, Andale can serve as your personal “get to the money anthem” as that’s the theme of the song. The hook is sung/rapped by JAHMED, as he utilizes a slower but syncopated flow throughout, including his verse, although with variation. His vocals create an enticing juxtaposition, keeping you on your toes, but not to be outdone, SY delivers a precise verse with a faster pocket contrasting perfectly with the feature. Out of the three songs mentioned in this article, it's probably the most straightforward rapping from SY, while his flow does have a hint of melody, this next song has the least weaving and blending of rhythmic and melodic cadences.
Set My Mind Free is SY’s latest single of the three discussed and has a video dropping soon. It showcases multiple flows including rap fire and spacious, timely flows over a constant synth and trap drums. At some points his delivery reminds me of a trap Kendrick Lamar and at other times Drake, but it’s clear that he has his own style and flavor as he sets his mind free.
In summary, SY has many things going for him, his versatility allows him to fit in with many different kinds of artists and styles of production. Follow him on his socials @sy.nolie and check out his website.
