‘Way Up’ by Artise: Missouri is chanting ‘Hercules, Hercules, Hercules….’

Up and coming artist, singer/songwriter Zoretha "Artise" McNeal was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, and his new release, ‘Way Up’ is every bit a representation of the dexterous rappers on the Kansas, Missouri scene.

Artise, like so many of the rap legends who emerge from this region, grew up singing in the church choir. The rich historical blend of gospel, Jazz, Rhythm and blues gives birth to sing songy, catchy choruses, and ‘Way Up’ is heavily laden with that decadent, hard-earned heritage. That said, Artise’s privileged musical legacy serves as a springboard to his own style and lyrics, riddled with stories from the street, and not deprived of raw, grimy appeal.

This is the perfect club track. The beat is hardhitting, his cadence and inflections are flawless with a lilting resonance that conjures fifty, sexy things to ones mind. When you listen ‘Way Up’, you’ll understand. Artise is a modern day scribe, a rapid - fire talent like the late great J Dilla or Ninth Wonder. Missouri - Your boy did good.

Listen to ‘Way Up’ by Artise here on YouTube and let us know what you think.

Review By Susan Harriott