For Seattle artist Allen Deshae, writing and recording has become his way to cope with the wildness of the world. His music frequently features emotionally powered insights that express his fears, weaknesses and motivations. Deshae’s latest track, “Alkaline,” dropped on the 22nd of August. This two-and-a-half-minute song features cathartic lyrics that are accentuated by a hypnotic lo-fi beat as the backdrop. “Alkaline” has an almost anthemic quality to it that makes the song feel like a private conversation or a self-care therapy sesh among friends.
This young up-and-coming PNW rapper displays the confidence and cadence of a seasoned pro. “Alkaline” offers fans a nuanced performance packed full of meaningful lyrics for listeners to digest over a Nima Skeemz production. This vulnerable track tackles unvarnished truths with a quiet boldness. Throughout the track, Allen Deshae uses an almost effortless flow to highlight his experiences with racism, discrimination, racial inequality, and his personal struggles with mental health.
Being Vulnerable Through Lyricism
Oozing with tangible vulnerability, “Alkaline” highlights Allen’s real-life experiences in a vibey and relatable way. His approach to songwriting and ability to express his most intimate thoughts showcases a mature level of honesty and realness. He establishes his narrative quickly with a captivating opening line, “I needed medication just to feel alright, I’m sound asleep at night, I thank the lord I’ve waited all my life.”
After that, Deshae sings, “they try to lock me up just out of spite, that’s why my love for you is out of sight, especially at that price. At times I question if she really loves me? Cause she seen all my ugly, I fear the judgment from the lord above me. To separate would crush me, probably make someone cuff me.” It’s clear, through these lyrics, that he tries to process his experiences and heal on his own terms.
The lyrics offer an intriguing contrast to the chill melodies that carry the track along. Deshae shares bursts of vulnerable lyricism with a combination of wordplay, flow, and narrative complexity to share glimpses of the emotional pain and personal drive that is bubbling below his surface.
“Since I could read, I read that we were obsolete. Before I could speak my daddy hustled for my needs. When I could see, I saw my world was at my feet. When I could think, I felt the welts segregation. Before conception I was bound for institutions. Cities polluted they don’t offer us solutions, I guess it’s useless.”
If he is nervous sharing this level of vulnerability with the world, he doesn’t show it. Allen’s control and cadence allows him to take on themes of racism and generational trauma with the wisdom of someone twice his age. Unwavering in his presentation and his sentiment, “Alkaline” ends with a powerful statement, “I’m a first-generation curse breaker, the fucking savior.”
“Alkaline” By Allen Deshae
Connect with Allen Deshae
Allen Deshae is easily one of the most promising young hip-hop artists out of Seattle. Make sure to follow him on socials to stay up to date with what’s coming next.
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