Clever Teams Up with Struggle Jennings for New Track "Kansas"
Clever released his new single "Kansas" featuring Struggle Jennings on December 11, 2024, through Ricochet Recordings / StreamCut. The track, described as "hypnotic," showcases Clever's continued evolution as an artist and his ongoing exploration of country music.
"Kansas" was written by Clever, Struggle Jennings, and Zakk Garner, with production handled by Ned Cameron. The song blends Clever's signature artistry with country music's storytelling tradition, creating a sound that is both fresh and deeply authentic. Clever explained the inspiration behind the track, stating, "Kansas is a song that brings together two stories of home, from the heart of Nashville to the soul of Alabama. It's about the places that shape us, the people who ground us, and the feeling that no matter where life takes you, there's truly no place like home."
This release follows Clever's self-titled EP, which featured tracks like "Billy the Kid," "Trainwreck," and "Cowboy Killers." The EP received critical acclaim, with The Tennessean declaring his music to be "the closest thing to a fully realized and intentional body of work that the hip-hop and rock-inspired country-crossover space has seen in four years."
Clever's transition into country music has been a natural progression for the artist. In a recent interview, he stated, "The genre's storytelling has painted the scenery of my entire life. Musically, to be making more country-inspired music right now is a homecoming." This sentiment is reflected in "Kansas," which continues to showcase Clever's ability to blend contemporary country elements with his pop and hip-hop roots.
The collaboration with Struggle Jennings adds another layer to the track, as Jennings is known for his unique blend of country, rock, and hip-hop. This partnership aligns with the growing trend of genre-blending in contemporary music, particularly between country and hip-hop.
Sources:
https://entertainment-focus.com/2024/12/11/clever-releases-hypnotic-new-single-kansas-featuring-struggle-jennings/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Struggle_Jennings
https://entertainment-focus.com/2024/10/25/interview-clever-talks-debut-ep/
https://moose106.iheart.com/content/2024-03-05-10-times-hip-hop-country-stars-blurred-lines-with-record-breaking-collabs/
https://www.ispytunes.com/post/best-country-rap-songs
https://www.stonecoldcountry.net/post/more-country-rap-collaborations
