Danger Mouse and Black Thought Join Forces with Joey Bada$$, Russ and Dylan Cartlidge for “Because”
Photo by UNCANNY
Back in May, the hip-hop community was startled by the announcement of Cheat Codes (Aug. 12, BMG), a collaborative album between chameleonic producer Danger Mouse and The Roots founder Black Thought. If that pairing wasn’t enough, the duo recruited Joey Bada$$, Russ and Dylan Cartildge for their second single “Because.”
Danger Mouse’s subtle production quirks shine in his collaborations with rappers, and this is no exception. A steady drum loop mixes with funky guitars and a show-stopping hook provided by Cartlidge (nope, it’s not a sample!). Black Thought uses his verses to reflect on violence and his upbringing, dropping references to legendary artist Yayoi Kusama and the Dalai Lama. In a breathtaking kicker, Black Thought signs off with “Don’t need a reason to die, we die just because.” Atlanta rapper Russ and New York darling Joey Bada$$ ease into the pressures of being on a track with two legends with dexterity, floating over the nostalgic groundwork set in place by Danger Mouse.
Joey Bada$$ reflected on the collaboration, saying:
I’ve always been a big fan of Black Thought and Danger Mouse. I think Black Thought is one of the greatest rappers ever, so when they asked me to get on this record, it was a no-brainer, plus the record is fire! I still remember the first time I heard “You Got Me” the video was shot on my great-grandmother’s block and I was actually there that day when I was a child. It changed the way I looked at music. I’m very honored to be a part of this track. We’re making history!