Where some emcees use their struggle-filled upbringings as fodder for self-mythology, telling sweeping tales of their legendary hustle, R.O.M.E. keeps his feet firmly planted on the streets, using the subtler details of inner-city poverty as his lyrical palette. This uncompromising take on hip-hop storytelling isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, as evidenced by the mixed reviews the rapper received for Star Children, but mixtape single Cryin’ may just have what it takes to convince the doubters. Like R.O.M.E.‘s Booth debut, this record features heartfelt lyrics centered on the day-to-day struggles that filled his formative years, a Chipmunk-soul hook (from the Temptations’ I Wish It Would Rain), and a melancholy, piano-driven beat—the main difference lies in the presentation; The Bizness’ punchier percussion rhythm and buzzing synth-bassline invest R.O.M.E.‘s impassioned vocals with more emotional heft, and the record as a whole with more momentum. Personally, I think these minor tweaks make a big difference, and one that will likely be reflected in Booth regulars’ ratings. For more of this up-and-comer’s vivid tales of inner-city survival, check out his My Demo mixtape, set to drop on the 15th.
Listen to More: Rome Written by richard
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Member Reviews and Ratings
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DJ Booth Crew Total Ratings: 11684 |
Great selection for a lead record off this new mixtape. The production is stellar, the storytelling is engaging, and the passion is obvious. R.O.M.E might conquer...
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker |
I like this dude a lot. I liked "Star Children" and I thought this was even better. He brings some real lyrics and has some good energy on here. I even liked the hook. Easy 4 stars from me.
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker Total Ratings: 1077 |
I'm still not completely sold on his flow, but I do like the storytellin and heartfelt lyrics. The production and sample (I LOVE the Temptations) make this track a banger for me. The production and piano in the back do compliment his flow better than his last feature.
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker Total Ratings: 1077 |
For some reason it wasn't lettin me rate... so here it is.
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker |
The sample is a great idea to set the tone and I like the lyrics on here. In rotation
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker Total Ratings: 868 |
Dude put good energy into this track,his flow works with the beat,
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker Total Ratings: 2281 |
He speaks with alotta heart and truth. That is needed more in music. This sample is fittin@. R.O.M.E. keep up the @ood product.
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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Tastemaker Total Ratings: 4267 |
Some heartfelt lyrics on here for sure .... the prod by Bizness is solid (not "Every Girl" HOT, nonetheless hot) & a Chipmunk voiced sample in the hook is a nice touch as well ... but again his flow is suspect ...
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| Posted on Jun 03, 2009 |
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DJ Booth Member Total Ratings: 44 |
His flow is too Amateur Night at the Apollo. Or should I say Karaoke Night at your local bar. I was not impressed with Star Children and the sample used in here outshined him. I'm hearing him trying too hard.
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| Posted on Jun 08, 2009 |
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DJ Booth Member |
^^uh no, I bet not even half of a local bar can flow like this guy. It's harder to flow than it sounds.
Anyways, I like the sample used and the song is smooth. |
| Posted on Jun 08, 2009 |
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DJ Booth Member |
beat is sick but he can work on his flow a little
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| Posted on Jun 10, 2009 |
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| Posted on Nov 11, 2012 |