In the last month, Ambrosia For Heads readers decided by vote that Big K.R.I.T.’s 4eva Is A Mighty Long Time was “the best Hip-Hop album of 2017.” Another artist made a really impressive effort last year, among the many. That was Berkeley, California’s Caleborate, who is no stranger to that same voting body. His Real Person LP packed a ton of punch, honesty and vulnerability, told in dope rhymes over moving beats.

One song on that album is “Soul,” and it stands out in a major way. Now Krizzle jumps on the remix, with his A.O.T.Y. stride on full display. Over the original beat (featuring a faint ’70s Jackson 5-esque vocal sample in its background), K.R.I.T. starts out dedicating the song to single parents (mothers and fathers) that are providers and true hustlers within the workforce. With a melodic delivery, the MC’s flow hugs the beat and enhances the song’s soul. He raps, “Never lose who you are / Know yourself from the start,” before shifting gears in his delivery speed, “I know what it’s like to be / So far behind you gotta fight to see / Over the shoulders of bill collectors / Granny prayin’, ‘May God protect us’.” He has lived it, and is not afraid to revisit that part of his journey.

Big K.R.I.T.’s 4eva Is A Mighty Long Time Is Your Best Rap Album Of 2017. K.R.I.T. Speaks

Caleb’ and K.R.I.T. share the intensity in telling listeners that their soul is the most prized asset. Caleborate makes a similar entrance as K.R.I.T., shouting out those who make sacrifices every day to simply just survive. He raps about his own pathway into Rap, in spite of financial hurdles, naysayers, and unsuccessful dream shatterers. Caleborate exudes heart and soul in urging people to never lose hope.

These are two fighters who never forfeited their souls. Both Caleborate and Big K.R.I.T. are currently featured on AFH’s official playlist:

This premiered at Complex.