Mafi D has risen the ranks of Seattle hip-hop over the past year rather quickly. His My Word Is Law EP hit all streaming platforms earlier this year and the response I’ve witnessed has been impressive.
Much like the majority of bubbling “street” rappers in our region, “traditional” media has been dead silent after his releases. Sure Mafi D grabbed some plays on a few platforms and blazed stages, but he holds a level of respect that isn’t plainly seen in our area. He’s amassed an impressive amount of genuine support with a short resume of videos and tracks.
The streets are behind Mafi and that’s likely the same reason why no other media has shown up to the party yet. One can’t help but wonder if our city’s gentrification issues have stretched past real estate and neighborhoods into the platforms and local media. While our hip-hop scene is alive and well, the hood is often pushed out much like the Central District that helped birth the cities sound. It’s also worth mentioning that “street music’ catches a label glorifying violence but Mafi explores all aspects of his upbringing and surroundings. At the top of the year, the artist explored the heavily taboo subject of mental health in an excellent release aptly titled Mental Health. It’s clear he’s using his voice to bring life into art.
Mafi D’s sound is right in align with the newer West Coast vibe which is catching fire from the underground to the mainstream. My Word Is Law is a mixture of raw flow followed by honest bars and various levels of energy. The EP starts off with my favorite record ‘Thank God’ and takes a trip through upbeat sounds like ‘Way Out,’ records for the ladies like ‘Bae’ and autotuned slaps with ‘Would They Love Me.’ If you like West Coast music, you’ll heavily mess with this.
Mafi D My Word Is Law EP
Listen to My Word Is Law on Apple Music
Thank God (Music Video)
Watch Mafi’s interview on The Break Podcast
