Whether it goes down in history as a mixtape or an album, Dave East’s Kairi Chanel left a lasting mark on 2016. Mass Appeal Records’ Harlem, New Yorker artist inked a deal with Def Jam partnership. Upon the ’16 announcement, he waited one day to release 15 tracks featuring Fabolous, Cam’ron, 2 Chainz, Beanie Sigel, and The Game. Like the nine mixtapes before it, the tireless East threw his life over beats, capturing a truly distinct experience.

“30 Niggaz” is one of the telling moments. The video is stripped down, with Dave surrounded by his squad. The song is a straightforward examination of the circumstances that brought Dave East to his present, and where he intends to head with oncoming fame and fortune.

Nas, Dave East, & Lin-Manuel Miranda Rhyme Their Way Out of Struggle (Audio)

With the gold fronts in, Dave looks directly into the camera. He spits his lines from the Buda & Grandz-produced track with deadpan sincerity. At a time when Rap music embraces distractions, East is a dose of reality. As he gets major backing, many Heads will be satisfied with more of the same from Kairi.

Jim Jones & Dave East Fly High In Harlem (Video)

Photo by Calligrafist Photography.