As rapper Clear Mind, he has been active in the local scene for nearly a decade, releasing several high-quality projects that reflect his enthusiasm for the genre’s aesthetic in the late 90s and early 2000s. . Mayweather returns this week with his most personal album yet and a special live event to go along with it.
“The Company You Keep” Album Release Show
Featuring Clear Mind, Ohzhe, ReaLation, ALMIGHTYRAZA, ANI and Hayley Stafford
When: Saturday 7:30pm to midnight
Location: Putnam Place, 63 Putnam Street, Saratoga Springs
Tickets: $12 in advance, $15 on the day
For more information: putnamplace.com
On Sunday, Mayweather will release Clear Mind’s latest release, ‘The Company You Keep’. But before that, he’ll be playing the entire album in a multi-act, multi-genre show at Putnam Place in Saratoga Springs on Saturday. As the show and release date draw closer, Mayweather is anxious and anxious to let audiences hear the new music.
“I made an album that is very important in my work and in my life,” he said. “I am very proud of this project and feel that it will get a good response.
“Shows are when it becomes a reality for me. This is the first time I’ve run a show for people from front to back and seeing everyone’s reaction,” Mayweather continued. “I talk about topics that still make me ‘wow’ to talk about, that still move me. This[album and show]is the best way to tell who I am and let people know who I am, Sheeran, and not Clear Mind. ”
The Company You Keep is Mayweather’s third album in the making. He began writing the song’s lyrics in 2020 while he was deployed to the Middle East as a member of the National Guard. His long time away from his wife, two daughters, family and friends inspired him to use his lyrics to explore his human self.
Mayweather has gone to great lengths to use the material to really share life experiences and emotions he’s been holding back for years. As he prepares to release his album, he hopes his emotions will set him apart from other artists.
“This piece touches on a lot of trauma and I feel people will relate to it,” he said. “The title, The Company You Keep, is about the people who help you become who you are – friends, family, all those who show you that you don’t have to be stuck in a bad situation and you can be free. A lot of things were easy, but some things had to be taken seriously to make sure they were right.”You and I” had to hold back tears did not. It’s a story about my relationship with my mother who grew up without a father. She also participates in that song, but I haven’t heard it yet.
“I feel like these feelings have been holding me back for a long time, so once I say something personal for myself, I want people to really understand what I’m saying and connect with me.” I was determined to give him a chance to be seen,” Mayweather said. . “I don’t see many people locally who are as willing to take risks on this project as I am.”
A key element in presenting a complete portrait of himself was directing every lap himself. Although “The Company You Keep” doesn’t feature a guest MC in its verses, his family and a number of local talent, including Alexis Rivera, Clarisse Haber, Solis and Sean Janet, “drive the album forward.” I’m helping with the hooks for.”
In addition to hearing those voices at the album’s live premiere, the release show at Putnam Place will also feature sets from area artists Ohzhe, ReaLation, ALMIGHTYRAZA, ANI and Hayley Stafford. An eclectic line-up centered around rap, rock, R&B and singer-songwriters. Mayweather has been one of the region’s most active live MCs since concerts resumed after the pandemic, playing and booking gigs showcasing a wide range of acts.
The decision to play aggressively and find venues for shows helped him grow his own audience, and he was also able to help his peers find a welcoming stage.
“I have reached out to many venues to help myself and others who need the platform,” he said. “I try to mix and match as many genres as possible to add flavor to the show. is music, genre shouldn’t matter.
“It can be difficult for certain artists to get love in any form,” Mayweather added. “Most things you hear on the radio aren’t positive, but I don’t care. To let people know that it’s okay to be yourself and do the music you want. , I’m doing what I can.”