As the Juneteenth holiday quickly approaches (June 19), Apple Music’s annual Juneteenth playlist is celebrating Black culture with a new collection of “Freedom Songs.”
Including a slew of covers and originals from 6LACK, Lupe Fiasco and more, Denzel Curry and TDE wordsmith Reason’s “1st Quarter” is an unforgettable highlight off the curated Apple Music compilation.
Tackling major government issues and speaking on personal plights, “1st Quarter” is truly an anthem reflecting on the journey of each respective artist. Sitting at just over three minutes long, the track ultimately showcases the versatility of Curry and REASON as its production continually gets darker and more in-your-face.
Keep your friends closе and your enemies closеr
Government keepin’ tabs, put your life in a folder
Many snakes in the grass so be where is the cobra
Your only option, go to college or be a soldier
Can’t even stand your grind when you outside of Florida
Twenty-five years, I’ma call it first quarter
“1st Quarter” — Denzel Curry & Reason
With the release of this Apple Music exclusive, Denzel Curry keeps proving that 2022 is his year. The Carol City, Florida native is not only coming off his critically-acclaimed March album Melt My Eyez, See Your Future, but is in the midst of rolling out the album’s forthcoming deluxe — dropping a remix to “Walkin” with Memphis rapper Key Glock last week (June 3).
Stemming from other collaborations with IDK and Powers Pleasant, Curry also spoke with Apple Music about “1st Quarter” and what the message behind the track means to him.
It’s an accomplishment to make it through the first quarter of my life. Especially as a Black man in America… Do what you do, do what’s right, and be legendary.”
Denzel Curry to Apple Music
Although TDE signee Reason has had a quieter year than the consistent Curry, he’s been putting in work in 2022. Following an appearance on Dreamville’s collaborative D-Day mixtape, he’s been sharing impressive freestyles via Twitter — further proving his talent beyond his 2020 album New Beginnings and 3-track demo tape No More, No Less (2021).
Creating lyrical fireworks looking back on the “1st Quarter” of their lives, both Curry and REASON show no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Stream “1st Quarter” exclusively on Apple Music here!
