Abstract Rude stands as one of hip-hop's most accessible healers. Since first making regular appearances at L.A.'s legendary Goodlife open mic sessions circa 1994, this MC has steadily found the ideal balance of strong lyrical substance and high entertainment value. Unafraid to sing his own hooks and break out multiple flows within single songs, Ab Rude is one of the most multifarious graduates of the fertile L.A. rap scene.
Learning from some of the movement's best, the guidance received from his original group, Abstract Tribe Unique (ATU), along with Freestyle Fellowship (FF) has proven to be invaluable.
It was with FF's Aceyalone whom Rude would later go on to co-executive produce the classic compilation Project Blowed. The groundbreaking album showcased Abstract Rude as a skillful MC capable of expressing soulful sentiments with his mystical themes and deeply pronounced baritone. In addition to highlighting the artistic creativity of an L.A. scene known best for its gangsta rap, Abstract Rude co-founded the Project Blowed workshop in Leimert Park – the longest running open mic youth workshop in the world.
In time, Ab Rude has endeared himself to fans worldwide through consistent touring – most recently with international hip-hop artists DJ Vadim and Yarah Bravo – and by releasing quality LPs such as P.A.I.N.T in 2001, and Showtyme in 2003 (on Battle Axe). Most comfortable fronting the atmospheric sounds provided by producer Fat Jack on albums such as Underground Fossils in 1997, Mood Pieces in 1998 and South Central Thynk Tank in 1999 (on Mass Men), Abstract Rude proved that clarity in rap is just as impressive as complexity.
His work on the Haiku D'Etat projects in 2000 and 2004, which merged hip-hop with jazzy soul, only further illustrated his music's diversity and ability to capture listeners of various genres.
After recording under the Beastie Boys' Grand Royal imprint, Mass Men and Battle Axe, Abstract Rude joins the Rhymesayers Entertainment family with Dear Abbey. On his latest album and first for RSE, Ab further broadens his medicinal lyricism touching on politics, relationships, and multiple day-to-day issues. And for the first time ever, he worked exclusively with Seattle, Washington beatsmith Vitamin D – who's produced for G-Unit, Redman, Gift of Gab, Lifesavas, One Be Lo, I Self Devine, among others.
With the ever-shifting subject matter and vocal styles on display, Dear Abbey is further proof that Abstract Rude is a true lyrical heavyweight at the top of his game.
By: Tom Atkinson
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