Philmore Greene’s The Grand Design is a powerful mix of reflective lyricism and Chicago boom bap, featuring collabs with Bruiser Wolf, Skyzoo, UFO Fev, and more.
Philmore Greene is a name that commands respect in Chicago’s hip-hop scene. Born and raised on the city’s West Side, he’s become synonymous with gritty lyricism and sharp storytelling, giving listeners a raw and unfiltered look at life in one of the most iconic urban landscapes in the country. Greene’s records have consistently fused street wisdom, resilience, and the timeless ethos of hip-hop, establishing him as one of the genre’s most compelling voices.
With his latest album, The Grand Design, Greene elevates his craft to new heights, combining reflective storytelling with a dynamic, classic sound. This is no mere follow-up to his earlier work; it’s a statement of growth and depth. The Grand Design sees Greene continuing the Chicago boom bap tradition, layering intricate verses over dusty, soulful beats. This is music born from the streets, yet universal in its appeal.
The album marks a return to his roots after his collaboration with Apollo Brown on Cost of Living, a project that earned widespread acclaim for its seamless blend of raw street narratives and introspective lyricism. The Grand Design picks up where that left off, looking even deeper into Greene’s personal journey while keeping his signature sound intact. His lyrical precision and ability to evoke emotion through verse are on full display, as he taps into the highs and lows of life on Chicago’s West Side.
Guest features from Bruiser Wolf, Skyzoo, UFO Fev, RJ Payne, and Rashid Hadee only add to the album’s depth, each bringing their own unique style to the mix. These collabs are more than just cameos, they’re integral pieces of the larger puzzle Greene is piecing together, offering a diverse range of perspectives and sounds that further enrich the album's multifaceted narrative.
For Philmore Greene, The Grand Design isn't just about surviving; it’s about thriving. It’s an exploration of ambition, resilience, and the undying love for the art of hip-hop. With this album, Greene once again proves why he’s one of the most important voices in modern hip-hop, offering an experience that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.