When it comes to hip-hop, few cities (if any) are as hot as Memphis right now. From chart-topping acts such as Moneybagg Yo and NLA Choppa to crunk revivalist Duke Deuce and indie darling Don Lifted, there is no shortage of unique and eclectic talent in the Bluff City. Despite this crowded field, rapper Lukah has still emerged as a particularly notable talent in the local scene, delivering gritty and wise street tales over beats that could have easily been utilized by the likes of Mobb Deep decades earlier. On Friday, July 22nd, Lukah will be returning with both a new album (“Raw Extractions”), as well as a short film that accompanies his last album “Why Look Up, God’s in the Mirror,” at a free show at Black Lodge beginning at 8pm. Prior to the show, we sat down with Lukah to learn a little bit more about what we can expect.
First things first, for those who may be unfamiliar with you and your music, just tell us a bit about who Lukah is as an artist
I’m just an emcee from the depths of South Memphis who has a way with words and has something important to say. I attack generational trauma and the system using piercing wordplay, science and street knowledge. I am the culture.
Judging by the event flier, the upcoming show at Black Lodge seems to be jam packed. Let’s start with the “Why Look Up, God’s in the Mirror” short film premiere. It’s obviously named after your last album, but what else should we know about it?
It’s about me seeking revenge on a person who was close to me. How I seek revenge is the exciting part. What’s special about this revenge story is it contains everything I like when it comes to films. Action, crime, and horror. And know that Studio Onefourthree and others who are a part of this film worked extremely hard and did a hell of a job!
In addition to the film, you’ll also be hosting a listening party for your new album “Raw Extractions.” Without giving away too much, tell us a bit about what we should expect and how does it differ from your previous work?
This go around is about achieving flight. It’s about having elevated control. And to achieve flight I’ve chosen to extract what hinders and also what helps us as a people by using the elements of hip hop in its rawest and purest form.
Will you be performing at the event, or will we just have to wait patiently for the next Lukah show?
You all will have to wait!
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