Raz Simone Is Far From Where He Wants To Be, But He’s Getting Closer (Video)

Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are currently the face of Seattle’s scene, but for those on the outside of the Emerald City looking in, there are plenty of others who are steadily grinding their way to relevance in the Hip-Hop industry.

One such name to keep your eye on is Raz Simone. Earlier this year, Raz was signed to Lyor Cohen’s (formerly the leader of Island Def Jam Music Group and Warner Music Group) recently created label, 300. As if the birth of the “Moneyball” music label and subsequent signing wasn’t enough, Raz has continued to have one hell of a 2014 with the release of his album, Cognitive Dissonance, performances at  Peter Rosenberg’s Rap-N-Wrestling showcase during SXSW, being included in discussions and voting as a 2014 XXL Freshman, and will soon be embarking on a 52 city tour with Strange Music’s Rittz and Taylor Gang’s Tuki Carter.

But it wasn’t always this way as Raz’s background was anything but musical. The talented artist grew up not listening to much music, if at all, instead dedicating most of his time writing poetry, movies, and TV. It wasn’t until Raz began writing poetry to movie scores that he realized he was rapping. Once he started, he even went as far as to refuse listening to other people’s music with the hope that in doing so, the lack of influence would allow him to create a sound of his own. He never looked back.

Cognitive Dissonance, is the product of this self prescribed growth and is undoubtedly a sound of his own. Up until now, Raz “Solomon” Simone has created six music videos for the project, including his most recent release, “So Far, So Far.” The introspective track touches on the Seattle ambassador’s personal life, which is eloquently put into perspective over soulful vocals and soft, keyboard sprinkled production. The fittingly family focused track comes just in time to sweep you into Father’s Day weekend. Take a look.

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