I’m keeping my groove this week with the classic cool vibes of Second City native, BJ the Chicago Kid. BJ is an always-on hype man, who has worked behind the scenes to propel the careers of Kenya West, Chance the Rapper, and countless others. Despite his ubiquity in the local hip-hop scene, BJ has very few releases to call his own. His studio release this year, 1123, is only his second LP. Thankfully, it’s usually worth the wait with BJ, and 1123 sees the influencer sticking to what he knows and does best, translating the mood and flow of classic R’nB into the clubs of today. A talent he shares with the likes of D’Angelo and other enigmatic MCs. The album opens nice and easy with the smooth bass and wiggly beat of “Feel the Vibe” featuring Anderson .Paak, this is followed by the glossy, luxurious, and Chic flavored R’nB of ‘Champagne.” Other hits include the juicy bumping slow jam “Playa’s Ball” featuring Rick Ross, and the ‘00s soul throwback “Too Good.” However, the absolute, show-stopping highlight is the damp trap slapper “Worryin Bout Me,” a too hot to touch banger about minding your own damn business.
Pick up a copy of 1123 from Motown records.
