Jessica Greer
A vision is an experience of seeing someone or something in a dream or trance, or as a supernatural apparition. Most individuals believe that visualizing your dreams will help to manifest your thoughts into reality.
#VisionThursdays was created by Hollis, Queens’ very own artist Shokanni, as a way to engage his listeners, not only to his new music but also to his new lifestyle. After recently serving time behind bars, Shokanni came out with a new mindset and focused on his transition from the street life to his first love, music. Representing one third of the rap group Hollis Boyz, this MC evolved his passion for music into his own recording label, INI (I Need It). During his time in incarceration, Shokanni revived his vision for creating music, while also relaying a message to his peers and listeners: -“This is my redemption”.
From tracks like “U.N.I.T.Y.” and “OG Story” Shokanni shows us a true Queens’ vibe, or as he would call it MILK. Not only does he deliver gems within his music but also his sound is euphonious and melodic. The strong jazz influence allows his listeners to feel and hear a variety of emotions like hunger, pain, and at times positivity in each verse; the hunger to strive for more, the pain from his past life and the positivity, knowing that with diligence you can transform your universe. Shokanni also tackles modern day issues such as prison reform in tracks like OG Story. – “Now they got me on the clock, 20 cents a day, this the closest to a grave modern day slave”.
Shokanni’s most recently released single “I.D.G.A.F.” is an anthem for everyone in the transition stage of life; leaving a hustle behind in order to pursue a dream or a goal is always a challenge, but fuck it! The grind will always be an essential part of the process in every industry. This song lets listeners know there are many different ways and paths to go about following your ambitions: “Burn that bridge to your old life and don’t look back. Chase the vision until it’s a reality, fearlessly.” I.D.G.A.F. is saying focus on what you want and what’s important to you, fuck the distractions because in life there will always be obstacles.
For #visionthursdays this week Shokanni will be releasing his new project No Looking Back. This project is a reflection on his evolution as a man and burning the bridge from his prior life. He touches on the mistakes and the sacrifices made in order to get to this point in his journey. Riding through the back blocks in Hollis, No Looking Back is a definitely a vibe, it’s hip-hop, music with a purpose, it’s Queens!
Make sure to check out No Looking Back on all streaming platforms this Thursday, August 30th . Shokanni will also be releasing visuals every Sunday, #MilkSundays. In the meantime, catch the vibe below for the I.D.G.A.F. video in the heart of Hollis.
kalishaperera
Landon Buford
I have heard and listened to some of his songs, and can reflect on many of the things he writes about.He is truth being manifested in the flesh.