Madlib is an acclaimed and legendary producer, musician and artist, who’s widely hailed for his groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop, jazz and experimental music. As a producer, his production style is marked by a love of eclecticism while drawing from jazz, soul, funk and world music. His use of unconventional sampling techniques and his knack for creating immersive sonic soundscapes have earned him a devoted following among music lovers and his fellow artists alike since his early days with Stones Throw Records in the early 2000s.
Beyond his acclaimed solo work, Madlib has collaborated with Kanye West, MF DOOM as Madvillain, J. Dilla, Freddie Gibbs and Erykah Badu among a lengthy list of others. His production credits span across a wide range of genres, showcasing his versatility and artistic vision.
Ukrainian-born, Brooklyn-based acclaimed and rising emcee Your Old Droog emerged into the hip-hop scene a decade ago, initially cloaked in mystery and anonymity. But he quickly earned a reputation for his sharp, punch lyrics and gruff delivery. Some speculated on who the man was behind the sophisticated wordplay. But with the release of his eponymous debut, Your Old Droog body stepped out into the spotlight. And since then he’s been remarkably prolific, releasing eight albums and 10 EPs, which have cemented his reputation as your favorite emcee’s favorite emcee — and as a emcee, who’s about to explode onto the mainstream.
Your Old Droog’s forthcoming 11th album Movie reportedly sees the Ukrainian-born, Brooklyn-based emcee in a new era, where he’s received countless co-signs from some of the genre’s greatest artists — and taking his place among them.
Last year, Madlib worked with Talib Kweli on Liberation 2 and DJ Muggs and Meyheim Lauren on Champagne for Breakfast. 2024 marks several major anniversaries for Madlib: the 20th anniversary of 2004’s Madvillainy, which also reached Gold status and the 10th anniversary of his collaboration with Freddie Gibbs’ Piñata. Along with that, Jahari Massamba Unit, his group with the equally acclaimed musician, producer and artist Karriem Riggins released YHWH is Love.
Madlib’s latest single “REEKYOD,” a collaboration with Your Old Droog and Black Thought continues an enormous and productive period for the acclaimed producer, musician and artist. Not only is the single the first bit of new Madlib material since 2021’s Sound Ancestors, it’s the producer’s first release on the acclaimed artist’s new label Madlib Invazion. Anchored around a dusty and woozy bit of funky soul, the production is roomy enough for two great emcees to effortlessly spit dexterous bars full of insane wordplay and braggadocio. Simply put, it’s a celebration of what real hip-hop is: dope beats, and legendary emcees pushing each other and challenging each other in true verbal jousting.
Madlib will be embarking on a run of tour dates with Freddie Gibbs celebrating the 10th anniversary of Piñata. Tour dates are below.
Madlib Live
May 10, 2024 – BOSTON *
May 11, 2024 – NYC *
May 19, 2024 – CHICAGO *
May 24, 2024 – LONDON *
May 26, 2024 – LONDON (SOLO DJ SET)
May 30, 2024 – BARCELONA *
*with Freddie Gibbs
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