Earlier this year, Royce 5’9″ put some of the best work of his career down on the album Layers. As that self-released project continues to make its due rounds, Nickel Nine shows the world that he’s in stride beyond just his album in 2016.

“Carefree Black Man” is a song made by producer Key Wane. Like Royce, Key is a Detroit, Michigan native who has produced hits such as Beyoncé’s “Partition,” Drake’s “All Me,” and Meek Mill’s “Amen.” This track is a continuation of that polished production, with some chirped-up ’90s R&B vocals underneath. Key raps first, but by the time Royce enters (1:10), the track really ignites. Here, with a stutter-step approach, 5’9  comes with incredible wordplay, deep references (and corresponding explanations), and a high-speed delivery. All of these bars together, reflect what a nice life the Slaughterhouse, PRhyme, and Bad Meets Evil MC has achieved for himself.

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Just as he did so well on Layers, Royce balances some bold revelations with pure lyrical style: “I been independent / Since they tried to put me in the penitent’ / And I was innocent” and “I am Tupac to y’all / Y’all just carbon-copies.“