He epitomizes the authentic definition of artistry, and when you listen to his efficient lyricism flanked by an undeniable authenticity that has allowed him to stand out as one of America’s up-and-coming rap voices, then that acronym D.O.A. makes sense. To him Legacy Over Money is more than just a phrase; it’s his brand; his identity; his legacy!

Outspokenly expressing a righteous, self-empowered swagger that endeared him to critics as well as hip-hop purists, D.O.A. is the very personification of conscious rap. He doesn’t rap for the sake of it or feel the need to merely copy his predecessors. Even though he is inspired by the greats before him, he wants to carve out his own niche within the tradition of first-class hip-hop and rap.

He has battled numerous adversities, and such headline-worthy experiences ultimately inform his provocative rhymes delivered with a masterful flow and wise perspective over a range of beats. After making his comeback in music to live out his dream, he really takes it to the next level with this new project titled “Never x Settle”

It’s been a while since I’ve listened to an album or EP in its entirety without skipping a track; this was the case with this 7-track masterpiece that sees D.O.A. give his soul out in every track to create something that deserves critical acclaim.

He is swift, and effortless, and the message behind every track is quite deep and relatable. By borrowing inspiration from his own experiences, the triumphs and failures, “Never x Settle” allows the listener to find relatability in their own way.

What a performance in “Visionary”- an impeccable ode to D.O.A.’s forward-thinking mentality both as an artist and a person, this performance right here is nothing short of a lyrical masterclass. The way he just slides in and delivers some thought-provoking bars and an unforgettable hook over the authentic production is simply staggering!

Exuding his natural witty charm, D.O.A. goes on to pour his heart and soul out, unleashing some visual metaphors, cerebral wordplay, and irresistible hooks. The backing female vocal harmonies give this tune that old-school R&B aura and the saxophone-like percussion adds to the elegance, clarity, and warmth!

In “Supersede” D.O.A. displays another dynamic side to his artistry: shapeshifting, ebbing and flowing like a dual-clutch transmission, landing each sick verse and rhyme in rhythmically captivating flows. The beat here is impressive, and he really makes the most of it with that lyrically dominant performance that is educational and entertaining.

“False Prophets” is another bona fide standout, with D.O.A. throwing warning shots about the false prophets both in the religious and music worlds who come through with fake promises and, after milking you dry, condemn you to an eternity of suffering.

His performance here is direct and hard-hitting, capped off with that unforgettable chorus that drives the message home. The beats exude an old-school vibe that is delightfully charming.

“No Excuses” sees D.O.A. dance over the beats, eloquently unleashing vivid lyricism and tapping into his wealth of lyrical knowledge to shock and awe a listener in equal measure.

“3AM in KC” is emotional, with D.O.A. delivering an onslaught of bars from the first minute all the way to the last one. Levitating over beats and talking personal life, including his troubled relationship with his baby mama, D.O.A. really wears his heart on his sleeves for something that is meant to connect to its listener on a deep emotional level!

D.O.A. is really who he says he is, and that performance in “Never x Settle” is the mark of a first-rate performer riding on an unrivaled high…he deserves his flowers while he can still smell them.

To be part of his L.O.M. legacy, follow him on Instagram.