Rahlan Kay’s An Ode 2 Hip Hop: The Boom Bap Letters plays like grown folks’ music. It’s mature, grounded and built on experience. Across the project, Kay shares wisdom and encouragement in a way that’s direct and easy to take in. The Boom Bap Letters focuses on self-reliance, confidence and moving with intent in a style that avoids over-complexity and layered entendres, opting instead for clarity and purpose.
The journey begins with “Crazy Ideas,” opening with a slowed-down sample that speeds back up just before the first verse drops. Heavy boom bap drums and a “chipmunk soul” loop from The Dynamic Superiors’ 1975 song “Shoe Shoe Shine” give it that early 2000s feel. Kay delivers a straightforward call to stop dreaming and start doing, setting the tone for the motivation that runs through the record.
Partnering on every track, fellow artist and producer Josh Michalec helps deliver a consistent and high-quality sound that frames the EP perfectly. The boom bap subgenre has existed since the ’80s, and this album’s sound reflects its height in the 2000s, paired with the conscious lyrical style popular in that same era.
“Rockin Wit Me” keeps the momentum going with another layer of sped-up soul. The hook, a simple, “keep rocking with me, just keep rocking with me,” is catchy and inviting, pulling listeners along for the ride. Kay’s confident, conversational delivery makes the track feel personal and connected to his journey.
On “The Best In Me,” the vibe shifts into a love-inspired space, with Kay showing a softer side. Backing vocals from EJ Swavv add warmth, giving the track a smooth, rounded feel that contrasts with the harder-edged cuts. The mood adds variety to the EP’s flow but it’s worth noting that the production’s drums lack polish, pulling the listener from the song’s intent.
“Never Give It Up,” featuring EJ Swavv and Riley Mobz, is pure inspiration. The track carries a strong East Coast vibe, with each artist bringing a unique perspective. EJ leads by weaving in biblical truths, Kay follows with steady encouragement and Riley Mobz closes with a street-smart but uplifting outlook. Together, they create a powerful and unified cut.
“The Function,” with S. Wholestack and imperfekt, shifts the energy with a lively, collaborative feel. “You know, hip hop is supposed to be fun,” Kay declares on the intro before showcasing his versatility in working with different voices and flows, even if its lyrical direction stands apart from the rest of the EP.
The project closes with “Time to Be Great!” featuring Iowa City’s MC Animosity, bringing everything full circle. Another “chipmunk soul” sample and perfectly “drunken” boom bap drums create an old-school groove, while the lyrics return to the central message of focus, discipline and striving to be your best. EJ Swavv’s background vocals add a final touch of polish, making this a track you can ride to anytime.
Overall, The Boom Bap Letters is a tight, positive and well-crafted EP. Rahlan Kay blends nostalgic production with messages that resonate. It uplifts, inspires and reminds listeners of the timeless power of hip hop with heart.
It’s clean enough to play in the presence of your mother, yet still rooted in the boom bap grit that keeps it authentic. By combining that clean, accessible lyricism with production steeped in tradition, it bridges generational gaps and offers something for both long-time fans and newer listeners. It’s the kind of record that can spark reflection, fuel ambition and stay in rotation long after the first listen.
This article was originally published in Little Village’s September 2025 issue.
