Artist, producer, and label owner Joey Fatts is respected amongst his peers and the media while still carrying a sense of incognito to the average person. After producing 9 albums and creating Cutthroat Records, he has become an underground legend while never ‘selling himself’ for the entertainment of others. From being pushed by cousin, Vince Staples, to producing and rapping with the likes of ASAP Mob and Curren$y, the young man has talent. With roughly a decade into making music, Fatts has become a more refined version of his previous work. Go back and listen to “Lindo” or “Cutthroat” for an understanding of his sound early on.

Fatts’ material dwells from real-life storytelling instead of the fabricated he say, she say that’s more popular now than ever. Olive Boy (2020), released two weeks ago, most resembles an autobiography of the gang influenced upbringing and experiences acquired in Long Beach, California. He isn’t forcing the music or dressing up as a character for our attention, which is a breath of fresh air.

In an interview with Innovators, Fatts expresses how he isn’t in music for the purpose of being a ‘rapper’. When asked if he had advice for independent artists, Joey responds, “Rap is a stepping stone. No one in my life said they wanted to be a rapper because rappers are known to be liars and fabricators. So if you want to be a rapper, you’re weird to me. If rap is the greatest you can do, you ain’t shit.” This type of mentality isn’t normal, but is a necessary advocation for profitable opportunities other than music. I can’t name any other artists in hip-hop commending authors like Eldridge Cleaver and George Jackson while also exhibiting wisdom far beyond his age.

Before Pop Smoke (R.I.P), I originally thought Joey Fatts was the closest any rapper would get to 50 Cent. Be sure to check out Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon by Pop. “Many Men” from Chipper Jones Vol. 2 is still my favorite song by Fatts (50’s as well) and what peaked my interests originally in 2013. Joey promised six projects in 2020, quite reminiscent of Lil’ Wayne and Curren$y. I’m unsure he’ll be able to deliver on that, but eagerly anticipating the future releases. An opportune time for refreshing music while awaiting the end of COVID stay-at-home ruling.