Gif

Gif is an artist whose music defies categorization. Gif uses his incredible gift for rhyming to discuss many diverse themes including politics, relationships, and religion. The intelligence and insight embedded throughout his lyrics place him in sharp contrast to most mainstream MC’s. At the same time, although socially aware Gif’s rhymes are not imbued with the unrelenting positivity that is often characteristic of so-called “conscious” MC’s. His voice is honest, real, and refreshing; he readily admits to his faults and frustrations, he is hopeful, but not unnaturally upbeat.

Born in Brooklyn NY and raised in the East Harlem section of Manhattan, Gif began his venture into hip hop at the youthful age of 13. Since that time Gif has released a critically acclaimed album titled “View of a Loser from on Top of the World” which received over 750,000 downloads. The follow up release of his single “No Born ID” generated over 42,000 downloads in one week on mp3.com; earning him a feature in the “Up and Coming” column of the site as well as the number one spot on their music chart and a slot on their “best of mp3.com” Mix CD. With the help of a dedicated fan base he has turned out venues such as Harlem Stage, South Paw, Brooklyn Academy of Music, as well as being a headlining artist for College Music Journal and numerous others astonishing crowds with his wit and wordplay.

GIF’s brand of intellectual street music stimulates public discourse and meditation. Examining recurring historical and contemporary themes of race, class and disenfranchisement, GIF’s unconventional musings and poetical interpretation reveal truths which resonate to any and all people. Reclaiming the essence of original Hip Hop, GIF’s lyrics speak to the need of the Black community to reaffirm and reinterpret their contemporary global identity. His post-modern critique challenges stereotypes, conventional perception, and the commodification of Hip Hop culture. GIF creates a disarmingly honest and insightful exchange between musical generations—a stimulating, thoughtful, proud portrayal of what it means to be part of a defining new generation.