Artists such as B.Reith, Canton Jones, Christon Gray, and now Maurice “Uncle Reece” Hicks possess an eclectic problem; diversity between styles. None of the artists have a home in hip-hop or the modern gospel genres. Not finding a home isn’t new to Mr. Hicks. Like many of us, his first church experience turned him away due to what ‘Crae points out to listeners in “Church Clothes.” Problematic. Thankfully, Uncle Reese had the backing of strong mentors and faithful fellowship with others whom helped grow his faith into the success of the first single off of his Bold project, “Until I Pass Out.”
Released in March 2012, “Until I Pass Out” has only gained momentum up to the release of Bold over a month ago. The track reached number 12 on Billboard’s Gospel charts; an amazing feat for a track without an album to back it and only its solo power fueling it. Crisp vocals tagged with a grimy beat created a worship experience forcing listeners to their knees in praise of our God the Father. Such a track set a high mark for a project, which was long overdue, more than two years in the making since this debut.
Uncle Reece’s ideas behind the title of his project reminds many of key verses in the book of Ephesians through the inspirational teachings of Paul. Paul stated, “Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the God News is for Jews and Gentiles alike” (Ephesians 6:19 NLT). The boldness of Christians living out their faith and sharing the Gospels is smothered through all 14 tracks.
As expressed in “Can’t Help Myself,” Uncle Reece turned it up to another level track after track. His lyrics are honest, exposed, stripped down, and drenched in transparency. One can close their eyes and just… worship. Therefore, a brilliant overall effort put forth.
This project mimics the mindset Knine exposed with his It Was Written: Vol. 1 project as the Gospel equivalent to Biblical storytelling and sound theological outpourings of the soul. Tracks such as “Joseph, Job, and David” and “He Died and He Rose (John: 19)” break down biblical verses in a new light. The listener will definitely have a renewed viewpoint of the events that surrounded Calvary after listening to “He Died and He Rose (John: 19)”.
Uncle Reece was the first round draft pick of the Phanarrow Music record label in 2012. The label was created by Jay Harris (shout out to Strght & Nrrw Clothing). On that vice versa vibe, Uncle Reece released a clothing line referencing the message of “Without Jesus I Suck,” in 2007. Momentum is gaining with the passion behind the shirt tag line as the clothing company’s Facebook has nearly 300,000 followers and over 10,000 shirts have been sold worldwide, recognized by the likes of FOX News, CNN, and other media outlets. Uncle Reece may be visiting a location near you soon on the 2014 McDonald’s Inspirational Celebration Tour hitting 11 cities including urban hotspots like Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
The tunes of “Revolution Music” and “Where I Belong” call out young followers to be bold in their faith, to live out the Great Commission of the Gospels. Both treasures of the Bold project showcase Uncle Reece’s God-breathed talents, which exemplify the uniqueness of the project and individual, which defines Uncle Reece.
Uncle Reece and his production team at Phanarrow Music collaborated a seasoned product for the debut. This is a true worship record, which doesn’t directly resemble another example in any genre currently. The lyrics will bring forth the Spirit within, the production will satisfy your sound systems, and the creativity keeps in pace with an original masterpiece. Follow Uncle Reece’s alter call to empower your faith. To God be the Glory!
