KTC Music Report: E.M.E and CRYS drop powerful releases
- Kick The Concrete
- 2 minutes ago
- 2 min read
I know we JUST did a Kick The Concrete Music Report, but today is a special day. We had to post about these two releases!
At Kick The Concrete, it's important to us to celebrate artists who rock with us and are on the same mission of inspiring and motivating others to live in their authentic purpose.
That's exactly what E.M.E and CRYS are doing! Both artists represent two different genres and creative perspectives. But they both are extremely gifted individuals using their talents for a purpose bigger than themselves.
So, without further ado, here is a mini Kick The Concrete Music Report:
E.M.E — "Go Hard or Go Home" Single
Rising Afrofusion star E.M.E is back with the hard-hitting "Go Hard or Go Home." E.M.E's been teasing this one for a while and we're hyped that it's finally out! The mantra of the title and the hook is truly motivational and E.M.E's fierce delivery really makes you want to "Go Hard or Go Home." But he knows that the road isn't traveled in one's own strength. He raps,"I been up all night, praying for my own timing/Holy love, that is all I need/Holy God come and co-sign me" before pondering the temptations that come with the ascent in the music world.
The song, produced by Mic Coats and Jayce Cabell, was released with a powerful video directed by Lincoln Byeoh that shows a Higher Power isn't the only thing E.M.E relies on. His community, called "The Tribe," creates a choir that backs him up sonically and spiritually. There's also scenes of E.M.E singing on the shores of a lake with a thunderstorm in the background, exhibiting how he stays strong in the ups and downs of life.
It's a fitting follow-up to his last single, "Cover Me," and we can't wait to have him perform at Kick The Concrete's Denver Magazine Release Party on April 9!
CRYS — "Nueva Era" Album
CRYS is entering a new era of her artistry and ministry. She marked the moment with her debut album, "Nueva Era." The 14 songs show a diversity of sounds and moods. There's upbeat pop, vibrant salsa and a soulful Afrobeats moment with the single "RAPHA" featuring Ryan Ofei.
The project comes from years of reflection when CRYS regained her voice after suffering an injury. Two of the songs declare the names of God, the aforementioned "RAPHA," and "El Shaddai." "Paso Lento" and "8.28" are slower, thoughtful songs. But there are moments of fun, too, including the snappy "Momento," and the bachata-infused "Más Que Ayer." CRYS has a beautifully clear voice and an excellent ear, not to mention a superb sense of style.
A Bible verse that is foundational to "Nueva Era" is Isaiah 43:19, "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." CRYS went to Joshua Tree to write for the album, processing how God moved in her life up to now and how He is continuing to work. To add onto the excitement of this season, CRYS is expecting her first child in August!
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