Decades after bursting onto the hip-hop scene and then a long hiatus from the industry, West Coast rapper Domino is dusting off his lauded lyric-writing skills and smooth-as-Godiva chocolate vocals with a new single, “4U.” His latest single pays homage to rappers the world lost too soon, some long ago like Eazy-E, 2Pac Notorious B.I.G., Nate Dogg, J Dilla to even some of the more recent passings including DMX, Shock G, Biz Markie, Nipsey Hussle and Young Dolph.
While Domino was in the prime of his career in the mid-90s, he had an intimate view at how the deaths of some of the 80s and 90s greatest hip hop icons shook the industry. Nearly three decades later, Domino has also been hit hard by the recent deaths of a slew of talented and beloved rappers. It was this latest wave of industry losses and the actions of Congress recognizing hip hop culture by designating August 11 as National Hip Hop Celebration Day that inspired Domino to action. If America’s politicians could recognize the importance of hip hop, then hip hop culture needs to do more to celebrate itself and its artists, too.
Compelled by his desire to honor hip hop and some of its most important voices, Domino wrote “4U,” an emotional and artfully suave hip-hop tribute that bridges the past and present by unselfishly memorializing artists from every Coast, who died too soon but still influence music today. For those who appreciate Domino’s signature melodic style, “4U” is a welcome new release and addition to the hip hop sensation’s impressive song catalog.
The melodic brand of hip-hop featured in “4U” is a style Domino pioneered in the 90s, earning him recognition as the first solo artist to debut as both a producer and artist (coproduced with Dj BattleCat). His style was a hit with listeners everywhere, skyrocketing him three No. 1 spots simultaneously on the Billboard Charts (January 15, 1994)for his smash hit single “Getto Jam.”
The success of “Getto Jam” also landed Domino the distinction of becoming the first West Coast artist affiliated with Def Jam Records to reach No. 1 on any chart. “Sweet Potato Pie,” Dominos’ second single, cemented the melodic hip hop style he pioneered with “Getto Jam,” dubbed MELODOCIOUS, into the genre as a fan and artist favorite.
Thanks to Domino’s influence and success, Def Jam West, Def Jam’s West Coast division, ascended to new heights, leading to the signing and success of many other talents from the West Coast, including Platinum artists like Warren G and Montell Jordan, and later, newer artists like YG. His lyrics and melodies have also been featured in songs by hip hop Platinum sensations Jay-Z and Notorious B.I.G.
His popularity extended far beyond the world of hip hop, with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler citing Domino as one of his favorite artists. His name has been featured on projects besides names such as Celine Deon and Pearl Jam (NBA Superstars 3.) Entertainment Moguls like Jim Carrey, Alicia Silverstone, Halle Berry have also called on him to contribute to soundtracks connected to their blockbuster Movie projects. A collaboration with NBA Hall of Famed “Alonzo Mourning,’ requested by Sports Illustrated would also demonstrate Domino’s enduring and universal appeal.
“4U” is my contribution to celebrating hip hop giants and talents that influenced the genre and the world with their genius and passion,” Domino said. If you don’t have an appreciation for at least one name mentioned in this song then it’s safe to say that the hip hop Culture is not a solid part of your within. ”With the hip hop world losing so many influential artists over the past years, the time felt right to re-enter the public space and lend my voice to honor those who inspired me and generations of artists to come.”
“4U” is currently available on all major streaming platforms.
4U- Produced by SMiTHMUSiX / Co-Produced by DOMINO
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