I recently sat down with Ion the Producer for another installment of the “Independent Artist Spotlight” series. I love doing the spotlight interviews because I’m able to unpack so much about the artists aside from the music they make. We see them as entertainers, but they’re actually ministers of the Gospel, some are husbands, some fathers, and most are leaders using their prophetic gifts to serve God. In my interview with Ion we unpack the meaning behind his new single, Undrdawg Szn”. We discussed his journey from producing to rapping. And lastly, we discussed his role as an Assistant Pastor and what he sees wrong with the Christian church. It was a thrilling interview that you can check out at this link
As I mentioned, Undrdawg Szn (produced by Ionosphere Productions, feat. Wilfredo) is his first single released as a solo artist. What would you expect from a top notch producer turned rapper? You would expect exactly what Ion the Producer gave us, bars over an outrageous beat! The song refers to anyone feeling like the underdog of their situation. It speaks to anyone who feels left out of overlooked. You would think this song was an anthem for people fighting to be seen and heard for their contributions. However, Ion flips it to remind us that the Word says in Psalms 37:11 “The meek shall inherit the land, and delight in abundant prosperity”. The hook is a direct quote from the book of Matthew, verse 20:16 that says “So the last shall be first, and the first shall be last.” The song helps to shape our thoughts around the importance of serving for the kingdom. It reminds us that there is more important things surrounding this life than clout- chasing and recognition. There are literally people out here dying while others concern themselves about being the next man up.
This song has something for every fan of hip-hop. Ion brings the raspy, gritty rap sound that I love so much! Being from the South it reminds me of listening to some old-school Scarface with a godly spin on it. He raps over an audacious beat and he certainly brings the bars. I loved the beat. It really puts you in the mood to rock and sway while nodding your head. I encourage you to go and listen to my full-length interview with Ion. He tells the amazing story of his testimony and how he surrendered his life to Jesus. I really think listening to the interview will give you an even deeper appreciation for his rap-style and story-telling capabilities. Also, he is an assistant pastor at a church that preaches on sound theology so his wordplay was on point!
Of course Ion had to go out and get a feature from one of the coldest compliments of rap in our genre, Wilfredo. I recently went through Wilfredo’s entire catalog and all I can say is that I was blown away. The versatility of his craft is insane. I really enjoyed his verse on this track because his voice is an instrument to the track. I love double-time rap. At times it may go way over my head, but I appreciate the skill that is put into it. It’s even more enjoyable when you find an artist like Wilfredo who is really good at it. If I had to zero in on what I enjoyed most about his verse, I have to say the switch up. I love when artist go from English to Spanish. I don’t understand the Spanish language all that well, but I imagine what they say is dope and I just keep on rocking the vibe because the creativity and versatility makes me appreciate the song a little more.
I’m definitely calling this song one for the Spotify playlists. You won’t be disappointed if you go and add this one to yours. Dropping a song like “Undrdawg Szn” just puts me further in anticipation to get a full catalog from Ion the Producer. I happen to know a little secret about some things in the works, but I’m keeping that to myself. All I can say is keep watching the moves that Ion makes and you’ll soon see what all the fuss is about.
You can stream “Undrdawg Szn” on Spotify using the artist profile link listed below.
