Repost REVOLT TV: Rapstrology | Drake, Future and embracing growth through resilience this Scorpio season

Rapstrology | Drake, Future and embracing growth through resilience this Scorpio season

KC ORCUTT

 // Oct 23, 2018

Much like the name suggests, 'Rapstrology' celebrates the beautiful (and curiously slept-on) intersection between hip-hop and astrology. Whether exploring the Zodiac is a guilty pleasure hobby, something to roll one's eyes at, or a swear-by daily guide to WTF is going on, this column aims to explore the roadmap that is astrology, through the context of hip-hop, lyrics and current events.

"Started from the bottom now we're here / Started from the bottom now my whole team fucking here / Started from the bottom now we're here…"

…And who am I kidding? I can't lie; it's taking everything in my power not to compose this next installment of Rapstrology entirely out of Drake lyrics. Honestly, it wouldn't really be that out-of-pocket or that difficult to put together, even if it would take things from 0 to 100 real quick. Whatever, though. I'm here for a good time, not a long time. My excuse is that I'm young. Sweatpants, hair tied, chillin' with no makeup on. Alright, I'm sorry. Let's do this.

Often reveling in a good redemption story—look no further than his ascent from appearing on a cult teenage soap opera to becoming one of the biggest rappers in the world—and embracing his mysterious-yet-on-point emotional intuition, Drake is a textbook Scorpio. For some of us, that's as cringeworthy as it gets. But, keep in mind, whenever you don't like a sign or feel the need to put resistance up, it's merely a reflection of your own sign and what that reveals about your own cosmic complexities. Ugh, an ever-smug Drizzy would probably really enjoy that line of defense. Anyways, Scorpio season is undeniably an intense one, but that's no reason to run and recoil just yet.

Whether Scorpio is exploring taboo subjects such as sex or money or power, or bragging that it's equal parts "God's Plan" and "No New Friends," this fixed water sign is rooted in dark truths, with a destined spiritual purpose to explore life's paradoxes, ambiguities and mysteries. As exemplified by someone like Drake, a man who is painfully aware of how complex it is to be human yet views his life, Scorpios can be a walking conundrum. A quintessential master of curating his public narrative but depending on private, alone time to recharge, Scorpios are the type to be extremely trustworthy but make a point to remind you they're not all that trusting and don't need anyone in general (except for maybe their beds and their mamas).

That being said, the Champagne Papi types out there are definitely loyal to a fault until they feel betrayed. The 6 God's recent beef with Pusha T, who just so happens to be his opposite sign of Taurus, is a too-good example of this. At face value, the budding tension was delightfully dramatic and viciously potent. That is, before one ultimately canceled the other out—before even taking the airtime to both do opposing in-depth interviews commenting on the matter.  

Regardless of what team you were on and why, after the dust settled, the reminder surfaced that, well, it has become increasingly difficult for Drake to take an L. Wild, right? His ego won't allow him to ever go through the motions nor actually admit defeat. What will it take for him to lose? Although Scorpio's regenerative power is nothing to scoff at—as symbolic scorpions, they can metaphorically lose their tail and grow a new one—being smothered, abandoned or rejected are surefire ways to get this secretive sign deep in their feelings, especially when it comes to their perspectives and experiences with romance and revenge alike.

While I could, and honestly would love to, talk shop about Drake being a tried-and-true Scorpio for daaays, I got a lot of people tryna drain me of my energy. Or, rather, are ready to see other sides to this mysterious slice of the Zodiac being represented.

After all, we got a stubbornly dedicated Future locking himself in the studio for days at a time, the business-savvy Sean "Diddy" Combs refusing to be placed in a box, and the charismatic French Montana pulling out all the stops with his lavish, star-studded video for his latest anthem, "No Stylist," which features, you guessed it, Drake. These folks, and the inner circles they keep, are all hard to keep up with at times. This is primarily due to mysterious Scorpio's resilient nature to seeing their soul's calling all the way through; these folks won't rest until their goals are met or their purposes refined. When it comes to embracing change, the only way out is through and these unyielding souls place protecting oneself at the forefront. As such, insults roll off their backs and compliments, while always appreciated, don't necessarily soften their hardened exterior either.

From the late Lil Peep living his life to the extremes through his art and his vices, to Tyga somehow being the phoenix of the rap game despite bankruptcy incessantly clawing at his heels, Scorpio's strengths lie in its potential for growth and its coveted ability to turn intense energy into a vehicle for resilient change; the kind that betters one circumstance but doesn't alter one's core values. As the sign is ruled by Pluto and Mars, Scorpios are intense, passionate, secretive, complex and fueled by desire. The longing for something greater or bigger than oneself is omnipresent, whether found in Roxanne Shante's steadfast mission to pave a way for women in rap or in Mr. Combs' leadership and dedication to inspiring others to find ways to build generational wealth.

Scorpios are about legacy-building and protecting what's important, and that nobility deserves one hell of a soundtrack. Now that we have covered some of the basic groundwork surrounding All Things Scorpio™, let's take a look at some lyrical takeaways to keep in mind, and when the mood strikes, on repeat.

Song: "Nice for What," Drake

Lyrical Mantra: "That's a real one in your reflection / Without a follow / Without a mention"

Scorpio'ism: This song has been heralded as an anthem for lifting up women, even though some layers peeled back show how Drake's good intentions fall a little short sometimes. Drake's views on women can be complicated—shocker—but he really is trying to understand, which doesn't go unappreciated or unnoticed. This line in particular speaks to the Scorpion nature of not being influenced by what others may think. A strong sense of self is everything, especially when exploring deeply within.

Song: "Used To This," Future feat. Drake

Lyrical Mantra: "Beat the odds, do numbers and remain humble / Drop-top Porsches, I'm so used to this / Smoking out the pound, I'm so used to this / I know where I'm from and I got used to this / Mansion in the hills, I got used to this"

Scorpio'ism: Future has worked incredibly hard to get to where he is, with this song in particular showcasing how now that he's made it this far and crossed over to the other side of fame and success, there is no going back. No matter what it takes, this man is all in. Future goes back and forth between wanting to keep his personal life private and reminding himself he has no reason to hide. There's an important duality in that, one that will serve him as long as his motives remain healthy and help him to grow.  

Song: Lil Peep, "Awful Things" feat. Lil Tracy

Lyrical Mantra: "Bother me, tell me awful things / You know I love it when you do that / Helps me get through this without you / Bother me, tell me awful things"

Scorpio'ism: Lil Peep spent his short-but-impactful time on this planet looking to find peace, with himself, his emotions, his demons, his impulses and with where his inexplicably bright future was headed. He worked through resentment of his roots (such as expressing his hatred for his high school and his repulsion of those who didn't believe in him) and through heartache, finding solace in the fact that life is complicated for everyone. He became a leader by putting his heart on his sleeve, fully knowing that choice would come with a range of consequences. Peep lived deeply and in the moment, with this line in particular speaking to the Scorpion desire to embrace the good, the bad and the inevitable.

Song: Tyga, "Taste" feat. Offset

Lyrical Mantra: "3 million cash, call me rain man / Money like a shower, that's my rain dance"

Scorpio'ism: Tyga's career has been an interesting one with this song curiously doubling as a bit of a comeback anthem) and he's still fighting his way through, all while letting his fans know he's been good to go. It's impressive, to say the least. This song speaks to abundance and things working out beautifully in the end. With Tyga back in the driver's seat, of course.

Song: P. Diddy, "Bad Boy For Life" feat. Black Rock, Mark Curry

Lyrical Mantra: "We still here, you rockin' with the best / Don't worry if I write rhymes, I write checks (Ha!) / Who's the boss? Dudes is lost / Don't think cause I'm iced out, I'mma cool off / Who else but me? And if you don't feel me / That mean you can't touch me, it's ugly, trust me / Get it right, dawg, we ain't ever left / We just moved in silence and repped to the death / It's official, I survive what I been through / Y'all got trauma, the saga continues"

Scorpio'ism: When Puff said, it's "Bad Boy for life," he was dead serious. He has built a legacy on top of choosing his battles wisely, taking to heart his responsibility to be both a resource and an inspiration for others. While surprises certainly keep life colorful, this imaginative Scorpio is built for battle and this song a testament to one's staying power. Anything else simply is not an option. In true Scorpio form, Diddy knows how to best weather any and all storms—and celebrate their passing—leaving millions grateful to follow his lead.

Additional resources: Jessica Lanyadoo's "Ghost of a Podcast," Lesley Francis' "Sun Sign Book," and Linda Goodman's "Sun Signs."

As REPOSTED here on REVOLT TV

Repost REVOLT TV: Each One, Teach One | Raekwon raises the bar with new luxury wine Licataa

As KRS-One articulated throughout his catalog and in his many teachings, "Rap is something you do, hip hop is something you live." As the culture continues to evolve today, many feel it's not only important, but vital to preserve and honor the fundamental elements: Graffiti, emceeing, breakdancing, deejaying and knowledge. This column called "Each One, Teach One" aims to do exactly that. It will highlight various lessons that can be passed between new and old generations alike.

Raekwon is a pioneer and true to form, he's not ready to sit back, take a look at his expansive accomplishments and call it a day. The hip hop legend who's best known for his work with Wu-Tang Clan and his solo albums has consistently reinvented himself over the years. He's studied the changing landscape of hip hop, perfected his business savvy and he's always kept his knives sharp.

On Tuesday (Oct. 16), the Staten Island native celebrated the beginning of his next chapter. He introduced his new luxury wine called Licataa to a mixed crowd of music, wine and food industry professionals prior to its launch on November 16. Raekwon looked proud, as he donned a baby blue silk suit and greeted those in attendance with genuine cheer. There's something really special about witnessing a seasoned recording artist being truly present and engaged in the moment, especially considering the impact spending two-plus decades in the spotlight could have on a person. With Raekwon, an air of authenticity, gratitude and humility surrounds him; making him an exceptional person to learn from.

"As a kid, I always carried myself with a sense of prestige despite my grim circumstances," the rapper said to the crowd from the back of Esther & Carol, a copacetic restaurant in lower Manhattan. "I knew that I was destined for something bigger than what it was. I just ain't know when it was coming. I carried with me that same mentality as I grew into a man. A man who later became an artist, a hustler, an icon and lastly, but not least, a hip hop legend. As my career continues to evolve becoming involved in the world of wine, this was something I felt was a perfect fit."

Rae then explained what wine means to him. He shared that it reflects a certain lifestyle; one that exemplifies style, prestige, luxury and pleasure. The legend went on to outline the parallels between his classic 1995 solo debut, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…, and his newest endeavor. He said that when approaching both projects; loyalty, strength and accountability, as well as top-tier quality and dedication is what sets his approach apart from the pack. Raekwon is in the business of creating timeless work. Though the recipe to success may be a little different for everyone and changes over time, it's about creating with meaning for Rae. That has been a constant in his career and the fact that he's still standing here, still maintaining through the madness and still producing work that he's proud of, reinforces how staying true to one's vision and expression is a key part of the process.

"I've done twenty years worth of work. I wanted to refurbish my whole way of thinking right now and do other things that still compliment me in a way outside of music," he shared with REVOLT TV at the Licataa event. "When I look back at the music I've done, I look at it like a vessel. I was able to build my art and take it where I want to take it. So, now I want to show something different to the world. Liquor's cool to drink and get drunk and party. But wine, there's something different about it. It touches people's hearts."

Artists such as John Legend (Legend Vineyard Exclusive), Nicki Minaj (MYX Fusions), Lil Jon (Little Jonathan Winery) and Fergie (Ferguson Crest) have ventured out into wine country throughout their careers, inspiring other musicians to carve lanes for themselves outside of the studio. While there are many lessons to be found woven into the multifaceted paths of our favorite rappers and musicians, for Raekwon, he hopes the up-and-coming generation takes note of the fact that hard work yields the best results.

"I want them to work as hard as they supposed to work and I just want them to know that the sky's the limit," Rae added about how he hopes his latest business move inspires the next generation to follow suit. "We expect people to be caught up in the little things. So, you have to brand yourself in the most respectful way now and try to focus on the bigger picture. Me, being here where I am, I always talk to younger artists on that level. They come to me, they look at me like a real OG. To me, an OG is when you're like 67 (laughs). But, it's like building a pyramid. You have to keep building. Music is just a vessel for me, the foundation. It helps me to step up and get to the next level."

As we look to learn from those who will always hold an important place in history, it's arguably the most interesting to witness how they approach giving back and moving forward when technically legends such as Raekwon don't owe anyone anything. As exemplified by Raekwon's Licataa brand, the need for a creative outlet doesn't dissipate after cementing oneself in the rap game. Instead, new business ideas and endeavors emerge, often presenting next level challenges to overcome. We can't help but trust that not only is Rae up for the challenge, he's already inspiring others to keep thinking outside of the box, as well.

As countless silver bottles holding the red, subtly effervescent wine were popped and shared throughout the lighthearted, celebratory gathering, the 48-year-old was proven right. There is something special about wine and his wine Licataa, specifically. Perhaps it's that it carries the stamp of approval from such a storied, well-respected innovator or maybe because it's further proof that the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves.

As previously published on REVOLT TV.

Repost REVOLT TV: Rapstrology | Cardi B, Lil Wayne and the art of finding balance this Libra season

As each Zodiac sign is associated with a planetary ruler—which essentially governs the way that one acts, adding dimension to the qualities associated both with one's sign and the energies surrounding it—'Rapstrology' will celebrate the beautiful (and curiously slept-on) intersection between hip-hop and astrology. Whether exploring the Zodiac is a guilty pleasure hobby, something to roll one's eyes at, or a swear-by daily guide to WTF is going on, this column aims to explore the roadmap that is astrology, through the context of hip-hop, lyrics and current events.

The seasons are changing and as the crisp October air fills my basic ass lungs, I can't help but want to proudly take up residence in the seasonal aisle at Trader Joe's, force my friends to go apple picking upstate (even though it's still barely qualifying as hoodie season in NYC), and make sure my Netflix queue is on point with all the campy horror I can stomach.

Simply put, it's that time of year again and I, for one, am limiting my complaints that the days are getting shorter now that we finally have Lil Wayne's Tha Carter V to soundtrack the rest of 2018, as if the long-awaited album not coming close to bombing is the cure to my ever-lingering seasonal depression. On top of that, we can also take solace in the fact that Cardi B is still Cardi B despite her increasing fame, wearing an incredibly polished outfit—best described as an iconic "I'ma handle my business and keep it moving" look—to turn herself in to authorities for an alleged altercation that took place earlier this summer at a strip club in Queens.

From Eminem to T.I. to 21 Savage, there are countless examples of how some of our favorite celebrity figures born under the Libra sun personify the Zodiac sign in every season and in different ways, whether they like it or not: giving us gems of wisdom to pocket, memes to make and, overall, new ways to relate to one another. As I begin to become intolerable on social media (and IRL if we're being honest), utilizing the hashtags #LibraSeason and #OctoberThings at every beckoned call and update, let's take a closer look into why this particular time of year amplifies the desire to be social, focused and, let's admit it, idealistic all at once.

Fitting in with the grandiose aura that surrounds those who annually decorate their homes for the fall season in advance (and cannot wait to show off whatever it is they've been working on), Venus is ruling everything around us at the moment. For those who may not be necessarily fluent in astrology talk, there are a couple of reasons and layers as to why focusing on this planet is important right now, especially when it comes to using astrology as a tool for self-reflection and balancing guidance with free will. Venus, the planet of love, the arts and beauty, is the planetary ruler for Libra. As such, it is only natural for this sign to gravitate towards being a peacekeeper, always inherently knowing what to do to balance or elevate an experience, situation or relationship. In other words, Libras are experts at beautifying one's surroundings, such as A$AP Rocky's tastemaking work in fashion, and in bestowing critical thinking when called for it, as exemplified through T.I.'s desire to help combat racism through education and community initiatives.

Additionally, beginning today (Oct. 4), Venus is also entering a rare period of retrograde, which is calling for tough, reflective decisions to be made when it comes to letting go of who, or what, is no longer serving us. This period is essentially a lengthy meditation on relationships, both with one's self and with others, and there is a call-to-action behind it as well. That being said, it is important to remember that truth and love are powerful, especially when it comes to gaining a higher perspective that will better serve one's purpose, and these underlying virtues should be kept close when navigating the path that lays ahead of you. Stripping down Libra to its most basic form, as being represented by the scales, this sign is all about finding and maintaining balance, a desirable driving force that particularly comes to light once the calendar strikes September 23.

Now that we have covered some of the basic groundwork, let's take a look at some lyrical takeaways to keep in mind, and when the mood strikes, on repeat.

Song: "Best Life," Cardi B feat. Chance the Rapper

Lyrical Mantra: "Ain't no more beefin', I'm just keepin' to myself / I'm my own competition, I'm competin' with myself"

Libra'ism: Cardi B is Libra AF. From defiantly speaking her mind to leveling up on her own terms to being open with her relationship to money and her appearance, one of the many lessons Cardi B can teach us lies in being true to oneself, no matter what. The best way to live one's best life is to keep in mind that you already are, whether you're working through hardship or celebrating wins with your best friends.

Song: "Uproar," Lil Wayne

Lyrical Mantra: "What the fuck though? Where the love go? / Five, four, three, two, I let one go"

Libra'ism: Yes, this song is possibly permanently stuck in my head and that's part of why it's sticking with me. But, take a second glance at this song and Lil Wayne is sprinkling all sorts of gems into what is an undeniable banger. Libra, the forever blunt charmer, knows that love lost is better than not having loved at all, and at the end of the day, things that you've truly earned or experienced cannot be taken away from you. *Makes mental note to start a poetic annotation account on Genius.*

Song: "About the Money," T.I. feat. Young Thug

Lyrical Mantra: "If it ain't about the money / Bitch, you can miss me with it"

Libra'ism: T.I., in true Libra fashion, doesn't put his time or energy into things that don't fulfill him or benefit him, either financially or emotionally or both. Libras get bored with the mundane, especially if they feel something isn't inspiring them or if they don't have the air to create or have a hand in justice being served. With that in mind, Libras have an ability to attract wealth, prosperity and pleasantries, something that we all can carry with us.

Song: "The Ringer," Eminem

Lyrical Mantra: "Has the court of public opinion reached a verdict / Or still yet to be determined? / 'Cause I'm determined to be me, critique the worship"

Libra'ism: I mostly wanted to include Eminem on this list because he did some true Libra ish recently. On top of having a good time roasting Machine Gun Kelly (let's admit it, that was hella fun for Eminem), he and his team took out a full-page advertisement boasting the commercial success of his recent Kamikaze album, despite critics citing his latest effort as a "stale misfire," among other less-than-flattering commentary. I'm not sorry, I love Eminem for that. Much like the song "The Ringer" suggests, it's best to call out what you see is worth the airtime, as speaking your truth will always hold weight, critics be damned.

Libra in question: Will Smith

Mantra: "Anytime I'm scared of something, I feel impelled to attack it. Life is hard but you still have to commit. Don't hesitate."

Libra'ism: While Will Smith has made some classic hits in his days as a rapper, right now, his medium of choice is Instagram. His self-described "new playground" is winning over the hearts of millions on a daily basis, adding a new chapter to his multifaceted legacy. Many have cited his social media usage as one of the saving graces of 2018, and overall, his choice to go with his intuition over his ego (when it comes to racking up numbers online) is resulting in some inspirational and much-needed authenticity. Look no further than Will Smith's decision to bungee jump over the Grand Canyon for his 50th birthday and you'll see how much we can learn from this motivational Libra, even if heights aren't your thing.

Additional Sources: Many Moons workbook by Modern Women, Linda Goodman's Sun Signs and Astrology for Happiness and Success by Mecca Woods

As reposted here on REVOLT TV.