Song of the Day: Kweku Collins - The Outsiders

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on The Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is "The Outsiders" by Kweku Collins from his 2016 album, Nat Love, on Closed Sessions Records.

Kweku Collins - The Outsiders (MP3)Though just 19-years-old, Chicago-based rapper/singer Kweku Collins has the musical influences and spirit to carry him through the rest of his career. In "The Outsiders" alone, Collins references Outkast, John Legend, Pat Benatar, Chrissy Tiegen, as well as the titular 80s classic, also having cited D'Angelo and Migos in interviews as influence. Still, Collins's music still carries a distinct perspective, anchored by his steady, articulate voice, which stands out amidst the many Chicago rappers who have come to prominence in recent years, including Chance the Rapper and Chief Keef.

"The Outsiders" starts out spare, Collins's voice ringing above finger-picked guitar. Though the song grows in scope, the hook ("and stay gold for me") directly referencing Robert Frost's poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay," also featured in The Outsiders, his voice remains central. Every syllable and inflection is audible and intentional. It's evident through every track on Nat Love that Kweku Collins will remain an interesting and necessary presence in modern rap.

Great news! Kweku Collins just got added as tourmate to NAO, another KEXP favorite. They'll be in town next Friday, September 23rd, at Barboza. Look for more tour dates and more music on his website and Facebook page for further information. In the meantime, here's the video for album highlight "Stupid Rose":