Mez & Leon Bridges Go “Around The World”
Blessed with boundless creativity and razor sharp pen game, Mez has earned the respect of the industry’s best and brightest during his decade in the rap game. Today, the artist formerly known as King Mez connects with the honey-voiced soul singer Leon Bridges for “Around The World,” his new single. Accompanied by a choir, crisp drums, and a sumptuous synth bass, Mez laments the state of society and dreams of a world where he can make music and chill with his friends all day long without a care. He’s aided in his mission by Leon Bridges, who sings of watching the sun rise and shouts out “every South Side around the world,” especially Southeast Raleigh where Mez was born and raised.
“Around The World” is the latest highlight to be shared from Mez’s upcoming project Loading, a seven-track missive, and the artist’s first official project in years. The upcoming EP is a succinct, 7-track document that showcases his laid-back delivery of dense, profound lyrics, touching on lessons learned from his years of experience in all corners of the industry. It is home to recent singles “Hot Spot,” an immersive song about finding connection featuring Isaiah Rashad and produced by Monte Booker, Phoelix & Cam O’bi, and the vibrant “Call On” ft. Kurtis Wells, which earned buzz from its inventive music video. Culminating a long journey through the music industry–from his acclaimed mixtapes, to working with Dr. Dre and J. Cole, to his rejuvenated solo work–Loading EP arrives in the coming weeks via Mass Appeal.
Emerging out of Raleigh in the early 2010s, Mez was a leading light in a fertile NC rap scene that birthed underground and mainstream stars. Mez’s sharp lyrics and assured artistic vision helped convince some of music’s biggest stars to trust him with their creative visions. Then known as “King Mez,” the rapper was one of the driving forces behind Compton, Dr. Dre’s long-awaited third album, appearing on nine tracks and writing on several others–his efforts drew praise from the likes of Pitchfork, NPR, Vulture, and many others. Mez has been a regular affiliate of his friend and fellow North Carolinian J. Cole, and has contributed several verses to Dreamville compilations, including Revenge Of The Dreamers III and last year’s Creed III: The Soundtrack. Mez is also a renowned video director, stepping behind the camera for clips like J. Cole’s “Middle Child” and “a m a r i,” Dreamville’s “Sleep Deprived” (on which he also raps), plus videos for Ari Lennox, Isaiah Rashad, and more.
Now, Mez steps back into the forefront, armed with his own message and more than enough talent to make it known. Stay tuned for much more from the multi-talented artist in the near future.
Photo Credit: Sophia Schrank