There are a few different regions beginning to take over the Rap industry, and it might shock some people to find out that Atlanta, LA, and NYC aren’t in the conversation as much as they were even two or three years ago. Obviously, those cities will always be massive hubs for music, but places like Florida, DMV, and especially Michigan are taking over the entire soundscape of the genre. While Milwaukee native Lil Aaron Japan might not be able to rep any of the aforementioned regions himself, he’s definitely putting on for his city and making a name for himself in his own unique way, even if he’s doing so while currently living in Houston.
When my homie hit me up and told me to peep Aaron’s latest song “Thinkin’”, I had no clue what I was in for, and although this is legitimately the only record I’ve heard from the rising talent, I was fully enthralled and can’t wait to dive even deeper into his other music. As far as the instrumental goes, the remarkable producer beatzbyt4 brought the beat to life with mischievous piano chords, hesitant yet impactful percussion sounds, and relaxed, tranquil drums that combine for a low-key instrumental that is still completely intoxicating.
My first impression had me thinking that this beat came straight from Detroit and would fit the likes of Baby Smoove or Veeze, but Aaron makes sure to not get drowned out by these other, slightly more recognizable names by proving that he’s a one-off talent that can’t be reproduced whatsoever. As he raps, there is an obvious rasp behind his voice, and although it might seem like there is a minimal effort put forth in each line, there is also this unexplainable melodiousness behind each word that is evident in the background, complementing his smooth, unbothered charisma inexplicably.
While it’s already clear that this track is a hit, Aaron wanted to keep the fun going so he teamed up with videographer AP the Gawd and shot a miniature movie that is honestly pretty impressive considering he is still on the come up within his blossoming young music career. As it begins, Aaron rolls out of bed and heads downstairs to the couch with his lovely companion before his verse starts up and he takes us to a film studio that is filled with colorful lights, various vehicles, and a slew of homies. Later on, he takes us to a sneaker store where he shows off his stacks of cash and designer garments before buying some of the shoes on display. Other than this, his large group of friends accompanies him in various other shots as they dance, drink, and smoke blunts while enjoying the awesome song together.
While Aaron might be a relatively new name to me, the introduction was absolutely necessary, and I definitely can’t wait to hear what else he has in store as he continues to see success moving forward. Beatzbyt4, the producer of this joint, also shows major signs of promise and could go toe to toe with any of the major hitmakers in the industry crafting this inventive and appealing new sound. Lil Aaron Japan is a name that you might not have heard of yet, but it’s definitely a name you’re going to be seeing a lot more often moving forward, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the Milwaukee talent’s latest offering “Thinkin’” and jump on his bandwagon early before he blows up.