Formerly a member of the North Carolina based trio Little Brother (which also included 9th Wonder), Phonte is indeed making a name for himself. This grammy nominated artist is one half of the duo The Foreign Exchange, but his solo work is far from being discredited. Features on tracks with artist such as J*Davey and recording a “R&B- flavored output”, under the name Perry Miracles, shows that he can hold his own, not needing to be apart of something.
Phonte‘s rhymes have been described as “No-frills tales of working-class life”. Not only does he flex his wit and wordplay skills via rhymes, but he serenades logic to the listener as well. Yes, Phonte succeeds in both singing and rapping where others have failed. Phonte gives hip hop a refreshing sound of easy laid back vibe of relatable music that has been lacking in most of hip hop’s 2011 releases. It also is reminiscent of the hip- hop of the 90‘s.
Today, Phonte releases his debut album. "Charity Starts At Home". The themes Phonte tackles in the songs on the album don't stretch far from the zone that he has thrived in throughout his career. Often called "common man rap", this album speaks to what listeners can relate to. The album also contains solid production. Hitting without being overbearing, the production merely highlights the skills that Phonte possess. A few choppy waves, but overall flowing like water. Also, the album's features that give another element of strength to the track without taking it over. Pharoahe Monch and Big K.R.I.T are two of the featured artist found on the album. Phonte can be heard showcasing his singing on this album as well.
With the release of his debut album, Phonte is anticipated to have one of the best hip- hop albums of the year. There is an authenticity and raw appeal that can be heard in his music. "Charity Starts At Home" is all of the things we wish for when hip- hop goes too dumb or becomes too commercial. A perfect balance. Mirror images of what we see daily, Phonte uses this album to captivate with stories of ourselves. Only a handful of artist can successfully capture the type of sound Phonte revels in. So if you ever get tired of being one of those “niggas in paris” questioning if “she will” take a listen to Phonte.
"Why rage against the machine when you can just unplug it?" - Phonte Coleman
Listen To "The Good Fight" (Produced by 9th Wonder):
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