Where’s the music?

As the nation continues to deal with the repeated deaths of unarmed black citizens at the hands of police, the question that typically comes up besides “Why?” is: Where are the artists taking a stand? Where is the music that speaks that directly speaks to what is happening now? Aware of the current social climate and the severity, T.I. steps to the forefront with a soundtrack that is necessary, powerful, and timely.

Unlike the emcees out there building buzz behind ridiculous beefs or those clumsily calling out rap forefathers for all to see, Tip takes advantage of his platform with the utmost deference and releases a six-track societal soundtrack, titled Us or Else.

The new EP hit Tidal last night (September 22) and features appearances from Killer Mike, Quavo, Big K.R.I.T., and Meek Mill. While it’s the first EP from Tip since last year’s Da ‘Nic, the new EP is his most politically charged project yet. This isn’t the first time Tip used his voice against the social injustices of America. He’s tackled similar issues on socially charged records like “New National Anthem,” as well as through peaceful protests and on posts via social media. However, this is the first time he’s dedicated a full-length release to the subject matter. And as a result, he delivers a damning report on what it’s like living in a war zone, the dream of acquiring the once promised 40 acres, and the crosshairs that get continuously placed on the black man. All in all, Tip’s message is a must-listen that comes on the heels of the tragic deaths of Terence Crutcher and Keith Scott this week.

Listen to Tip’s Us or Else EP below.