Big K.R.I.T. Tells Def Jam KRITWuzHere & Then Makes One Triumphant Exit (Audio)

In what is shaping up to be more proof that, sometimes, working independently can do wonders for one’s artistic expression, Big K.R.I.T. has just released a new single fittingly titled “Free Agent.” It’s just the latest in a string of powerful moves from the MC and producer, who this summer announced he had severed ties with his longtime label, Def Jam.

Big K.R.I.T., Akon & B.o.B. Have A Message For The System (Audio)

Since then, he delivered what may be the most memorable guest verse of his career, thanks to the bone-chilling vulnerability he displayed on Kenneth Whalum’s “Might Not Be OK.” Earlier this month, he performed that verse in what is arguably the most memorable performance of this year’s BET Hip-Hop Awards, taking to the stage in a policeman’s uniform and speaking profoundly on the violence facing his community. And, just today (October 13), he visited Sway in the Morning where he shared, among other things, what drove him to take such a compelling stance at the event.

Big K.R.I.T. Rocks The Spot & The Clock… With 12 Freestyles In 12 Hours (Audio)

During this morning’s appearance, Krizzle took the opportunity to premiere his new single, which is now available for all to hear. “Free Agent,” which he also produced, begins with some samples of a recent interview with the Breakfast Club. In selecting pieces of the conversation which directly reference K.R.I.T.’s departure from Def Jam, it’s clear the new song is the manifesto of a newly freed artistic spirit, and his lyrics don’t shy away from that fact, either. It’s opening line (“I built it from the ground up, act like they found us/from the signing’, the label tryna drown us”) takes the concept of self-determination and runs with it for the song’s entirety.

As he raps on the new record, “I produce and write my own shit, I know the score. I’ma drop another mixtape and go on tour.” It seems this free agent is ready to play the game by his own rules, which seems to be supported in Big K.R.I.T.’s choice of artwork for the new single…