PREMIERE: MrGroovology x Napoleon Wright II - "I'm Ready" (ft. Carlitta Durand)
Listen to the soulful, clear-eyed first single from the multi-talented Triangle duo's upcoming album, NO MAP.
As someone who's been in and around the hip-hop scene in the Triangle for the better part of 15 years, I stopped being surprised a while ago whenever Napoleon Wright II's artistry popped up in new and unexpected ways. From directing early Kooley High music videos to singing the hooks on their songs, to crafting his own illustrated animations, designing clothes, breakdancing with the Raleigh Rockers, I think at this point when it comes to creative endeavors, he's done a little of it all. All that to say, while music is far from the only thing Nap does, it's one that he's always done exceedingly well. So when he mentions to me that a new project is on the way (like he did last week), I'm all ears.
On the upcoming NO MAP (releasing Monday, 9/22), he renews the partnership from 2023's Sometimes Isn't Always with Durham bassist/producer/arranger MrGroovology, for a full-spectrum experience that, like his life, has a bit of everything: soothing neo-soul, heady backpack raps, hypnotic house, and more. We'll have more to say about the album as a whole next week, but for now, I hope you'll enjoy 1/10th of it, the unrelentingly sunny (and unflinchingly resolute), Carlitta Durand-assisted, "I'm Ready."
Stream the song below right now, and listen to NO MAP on all platforms on 9/22.
Ryan Cocca is the founder/editor of Super Empty, a former furniture entrepreneur, and a break dancer (in his dreams). He (I) can be reached at ryan@superempty.com.