Drawing us in with a cosmic and metallic synthscape featuring an ethereal hip-hop beat, Ray Gibbz opens If I Ruled with the assertive lyrics, “If I ruled the world, I’d change the fucking game, no more crying in the streets, no more fucking shame, I’d free all my n*ggaz open up the prison gate, give reparations to my people, clean the fucking slate…”
We immediately connect with the intentional depth of the prose and the poetic prowess with which Ray Gibbz delivers his message of liberation. We appreciate the raw sentiment that his words are rooted in and the deep historical understanding that aligns with what Ray Gibbz seeks to manifest.
The production is sublime with cerebral synth lines, panning textures and an atmospheric vibe that feels highly unique. Ray Gibbz is clearly a conscious artist who is translating his lived experience into art that can help and heal humanity.
We learn that Ray Gibbz is a self-taught producer, songwriter, and rapper from San Diego. With no formal schooling or traditional music background, he’s creating a highly personal sound, aligned to his own design. He confesses, “I did it by myself self taught no schooling no music background.”
There is a cinematic allure to If I Ruled, and it would be perfect for a moving scene in a TV show like Beauty in Black, or a documentary on freedom. He cites inspiration from hip-hop legends like Nas – which certainly explains the title and concept of the track.
Needless to say, we are in awe, and deeply connect with the high emotional quotient of what Ray Gibbz has delivered. We have added If I Ruled to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of Ray Gibbz, including Grime and Grit Manifesto, and Lonely Days.