Paul Wall’s latest album, “Once Upon a Grind,” is a concise 12-track project featuring stellar collaborations and production from DJ Fresh. The album showcases Wall’s signature style, blending smooth flows with classic Houston soundscapes. Tracks like “Woke Up a Millionaire feat DJ Fresh,” “Platinum Playa,” and “Way 2 Wet” highlight his ability to romanticize the good life and flex his lyrical prowess. Paul Wall continues to remain solid and stay true to the H-Town Credo – Already!
“Once Upon a Grind,” is a reminder to some, but for those who live life throwed, understand that life is what you make it, and its better when you never fake it. On tracks such as ‘Swang Down’ Paul Wall along with H-Town veteran Z-Ro goes ham telling a vivid story of swangin, bangin the block, and letting the 5th fall. Produced by Beanz n Kornbread, Wall along with the help of Crys Wall & Big Tonk, ‘Swang Down’ is a guaranteed anthem. “Chasing a Check,” featuring Houston greats Slim Thug and Lil’ Keke, are hustler are reminiscent of iconic down south anthems like “Still Tippin,” with great verses from its Houston icons and a standout showing from up-and-coming rapper Cartel Bo.
“Underground Ambassador” is definitely one of those keep on repeat records, perfectly exemplifying the hometown braggadocio that Paul Wall wears proudly. For the track, he teams up with other regional underground sensations like Mississippi’s Big K.R.I.T. and Philadelphia’s Freeway—rappers who live and breathe their cities and are proud to embody their respective style and influences.
Even with his undeniable mainstream success, Paul Wall has always had somewhat of an underground feel because he’s so distinctively and authentically Houston through and through. Wall and contemporaries like Slim Thug and Bun B reached mainstream status but never had to abandon Houston’s sound or its city limits to reach those heights. Today, it’s rare for our best and brightest rappers to stick around in the same way; the nature of the modern music industry often forces new talent to head to the coasts to establish themselves and reach greater levels of success.
Paul Wall is an indelible part of Houston rap culture. In his celebrated career, the rap icon has established himself as a constant champion for the city and a recognizable face that brings good vibes whenever and wherever he pops up. (No joke, you could run into Paul Wall anywhere.) Almost 30 years in the game, Paul Wall is still relevant in the city, whether he’s performing at Texans games or lifting up the next generation of Houston rappers by sharing the stage or lending a feature.
Sit back, relax and take notes as Paul Wall spits – “Once Upon a Grind”
Paul Wall x Z-Ro – Swang Down ft. Crys Wall & Big Tonk
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