Outside of the PNW, Seattle hip-hop has long been known for mostly boom-bap and Macklemore. The locals know the sound is much more diverse; young artists like, Lil Mosey, have broken out of the rain clouds to showcase that the Seattle area has more to offer. At this point in the PNW hip-hop scene, we probably have the most dope artists in history, and many are putting up respectable numbers. There are also artists that have all the potential but are still working on getting exposure to those around the town. In that vein, Mikey Metgala is a name you need to know.
Mikey Metgala, formerly Vxb6, recently held a listening party for his upcoming album at the 420-friendly Hype House. In conjunction, Knots Cannabis, Craft Connoisseurs, and HypeHerbally all sponsored the event. At this listening party, Mikey was able to play a litany of new unreleased music for a packed smoke-filled Hype House. While we’re not sure what all will make the final track list, the music played touched on multiple genres from Rap and R&B, to Trap, and a few in between.
After the first run-through, chants for it to be ran back started immediately. While everything sounded great, there were a few stand outs played. One of these stand outs is the catchy song, “Need No Help.” The almost Drake-ready record was a complete vibe. Upon hearing the hook once, it feels like a record you already know. This is a sure-fire sign that Mikey is onto something big. All of the beats played sounded “hard” but this one stood out as a palatable commercial ready bop, and again, that hook, man!
Listening Party Recap by CannaCam
Song featured in clip: “Never Simpin” by Mikey Metgala
Mikey’s family ties to Seattle stretch deeper than music and his environment has clearly shaped his sound. While the soundscape touches various places sonically, the lyrics contain bits and pieces from the same story. Elements of triumph, pain and self-exploration abound within the lyrics. If you know the artists personal story, you know there are many real elements of his life that could be touched on. Most rappers have to lie about their upbringing and life stories just to give themselves creditability. Meanwhile, Mikey is simply himself, touching on the emotions and elements behind real-life stories that your favorite rapper would love to make up and leverage for clout.
Whatever ends up on the upcoming album will be a treat for listeners. I often hear complaints about the lack of versatility in the Seattle hip-hop offerings. While I don’t always agree with that sentiment, we don’t always cover everyone’s tastes. Metgala, however, might just have a little bit of something for everyone with this new music.
Follow Mikey Metgala
Instagram | Spotify
Mikey Metgala Interview on Blunt Talk with Taylor Hart
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