EarCandy #1 - Luke Bell & Mozzy

Mozzy and Luke Bell. From a categorical, as well as a cultural standpoint, these two are considered polar opposites in terms of North American music. Those who are fans of Luke Bell have probably not heard of or listened to Mozzy; and vice versa. Categorical algorithms on streaming platforms suggest: since you listen to Luke Bell you will most likely enjoy Benjamin Tod, Sierra Ferrell, or Hank Williams. And if you slap Mozzy, that of EBK Young Joc, Bris, or ZayBang will most likely fall in your favored style. And these algorithms are usually right. Seldom do consumers of HipHop or Country step too far out of their respected genres. Thus, never exposed to other artists in different categories because they are not expected nor encouraged to do so. Sadly, cultivating space for judgment and segregation. But let me try to close that gap.

I'll begin with Mozzy. Mozzy is from the one and only, Sacramento, CA; which has blessed the world with an abundance of underground talent. Enduring a childhood of poverty and violence, Mozzy is one of the few fortunate individuals to claim success. Sadly, a situation far too common in the states. This constant trauma is responsible for the construction of what we know today, as HipHop: a product of its environment.

If you listen to a lot of HipHop music, specifically from Mozzy, you can hear the artist combatting the balance of life. Leading a normal life while carrying demons cultured from their youth is quite obvious in the music. For example, let's take a look at the song, Can't Take It (Ima Gangsta), from Mozzy's 2017 album, 1 Up Top Ahk.

The whole premise of the track is a balancing act between his success as an artist and neighborhood drama he is still involved in. And this theme is validated throughout his lyrics. For example: Mozzy raps: "Pulled up to the market. I remember putting 5 on 3." (1:52) Reminiscing on the time in his life where funds were so slim, all he was willing to spend on gas was $5 on pump 3. But since his success he "Turned around and dropped 5 on the tree." (1:55) Signifying he has reached a level of finiccal security where he is comfortable spending $5,000 on some kush. Baller.

But in a different lense, Mozzy highlights the less hopeful, but real, life he is rooted in. A few bars after the validation of his fruition, Mozzy discloses, "There ain't to many that survive in these streets. Its suicide in these streets. His momma cried as he lay in these streets. They covered that boy's body with sheets. Imma pray for her." (2:00) Exposing the depressing reality he has found himself in. And then a balance is found: Mozzy says, "You can cancel the car wash, imma pay for it." (2:11). Asking the family of the deceased boy to pocket their money for a chance for Mozzy to use the coin he has earned to send the boy from this nasty life, and cleaning him up for the next; a full circle moment. Using the profits he has made in the rap game to show support in his neighborhood. Finally, an equilibrium.

As you can see, in a span of 19 seconds, Mozzy battles balancing his life between the positive opportunity this money has brought him, and his level of involvement in the streets; finally finding a mixture of the two. But he admits this act has been mentally demanding, ending the song with the the repeated phrase: "A lot of sh*t on my mind I can't take it."

Now, let's turn to Luke Bell. Luke held an old soul. Spreading a level of music and philosophy so impressive many believed he carried the mind and heart of someone who had successfully walked this earth before. But this complicated structure came with an equal force of trouble. Suffering the loss of his father, David Bell, in 2016, Luke failed to accept the brutal reality he found himself in; giving his soul no time to rest.

Shortly after the death of his father, Luke released his debut, self titled album: Luke Bell. Which gifted the world ten priceless records. The most popular being, Where Ya Been?. Much like Mozzy's track, Can't Take It, Where Ya Been? is an orchestrating example of the struggle of balance and self acceptance. In this case, a balance of the reservation of temperate time, and the evasion of reality.

The song begins with a pair of questions: "Where ya been? Hey, mister in the mirror, where's my friend?" (0:09). Introducing the search for his misplaced soul. Then, Luke admits: "I went out on the town and I ain't seen him sense." (0:18). Inferring a life led by an attempt to escape it, only worsened his situation. His constant pursuit of liberation through substances eased his pain, but scattered his soul.

In the duration of the tune, Luke never is able to find the balance he was seeking. But here lies the beauty. Sometimes questions deem more important than the answers they are paired too. Luke realized he carried an array of problems, which were difficult to escape. And though he knew he had them, he struggled to find a solution to fix them. I imagine, this resonates with a large number of individuals; you have a problem, have labeled it, but can’t fix it.

Luke was later diagnosed with severe bipolar disorder, only entangling his issues further. He fought and sought help through medical professionals, friends, family, and music; but his light was cut short. On August 26th, 2022, Luke was found dead in Tucson, AZ from a fentanyl overdose. The pursuit of his internal freedom was ultimately caught and he is finally at peace. It is important to not that Luke did not die, but rather became the music he gave us. Which offers so much.

As seen in both Mozzy's and Luke Bell's pieces, the quest of balance is extremely complicated and comes in many forms; incorporating many details. These two stem from very contrasting lifestyles, conditions, and adolescence; but ultimately deal with similar issues. At first glance, there is nothing comparable between the two. But through analisis, we can find similarities joining any individual and their culture to another.

These two men are some of the best at what they do. And in my opinion, they deserve respect from all walks of life. Remember, music is very malleable; its significance is only important to you. With that being said, give every song a try. Don't be afraid to venture.

"A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies... The man who never reads, lives one" George R.R.

Can't Take It (Ima Gangsta)

Where Ya Been?