Welcome to this week’s edition of Way Back Wednesday! Today, we’ll be exploring the creation and production of the powerful hip-hop album, “For Colored Folk” by Bates, released on June 23, 2016. This album is a true masterpiece and a testament to the talent and creativity of St. Louis, MO hip-hop artist, Bates.
Recorded at Suburban Pro Studios by Senior Engineer Matthew Sawicki, “For Colored Folk” is a stunning album that showcases the diversity of Bates’ sound and her ability to address a wide range of social issues. Bates worked closely with producer TRUE On Da TRAC to create a powerful, unrepentant, and highly creative album that is unapologetically honest and hard-hitting.
The album is filled with powerful and poignant tracks like “Freedom Boat” and “Bootstraps” that use message and production to revive antiquated aspects of black music. The jazzy hip-hop songs like “Black Bodies” and “City of the Fallen” spark dismal emotional reactions and add to the overall multi-layered theme of the project. Bates’ raw talent and ability to create an immersive listening experience are evident throughout the album.
Bates also addresses various issues on “For Colored Folk” such as homophobia, religion, politics, and personal beef on tracks like “COINTELPRO.” Bates’ lyrics are thought-provoking, and the production work expertly captures the rawness and intensity of the messages she conveys.
Working with the team at Suburban Pro Studios enabled Bates to achieve the powerful and unrepentant sound that she was aiming for with “For Colored Folk.” The studio’s state-of-the-art equipment, paired with the expertise of Senior Engineer Matthew Sawicki, allowed Bates to bring her creative vision to life and create an album that is truly unforgettable.
