INTERVIEW: “The Score” - V OF 40M: The Journey, Inspiration, Future Plans
Artist: V OF 40M, 40m Tye, Hippie G Single: The Score Genre: Drill, Political Hip-Hop, Rap Release Date: February 29th, 2024
We got the chance to speak with V of 40M and delve into the inspiration behind their new anthem "The Score," and to explore how it fits into the larger narrative of their music and the 40M movement. V of 40M shares insights on their creative process, the significance of their collaborations, and the revolutionary message that sets their music apart in today's hip-hop landscape.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "The Score" and how it fits into the larger narrative of your music and the 40M movement?
“The Creator, the people and the movement - 40M or Forty Million Strong. Everything we do is for our people, hence the lyrics “everything 40M. The Score is about collective action or teamwork. It’s about knowing who the true opposition is and being willing to do whatever it takes to win our freedom and liberation, things that cannot be granted by man. It’s about being fearless or courageous and it’s also about the comeback. Our people coming back to true independence, autonomy. Establishing the structures, the procedures, the policies and all else required of a nation. A nation operating on the international stage, self-sufficient and exercising its self-determination. The Score possesses much of this and more. It may feel like a bop when it first hits you but once you listen, the message will be loud and clear."
What was the creative process like working with 40M Tye and Hippie G on this track?
“Those are the bro’s, heavy on the 4’s. All I can say, movie!”
LABACK's production plays a crucial role in shaping the sound of "The Score." How did the collaboration with LABACK come about, and what did they bring to the table?
“Was simply shopping for beats and came across it. We actually sat on it for a while before deciding to record, nonetheless it worked out just fine. Bro definitely did his ting-ting though. When beats make me feel how this one did then I know what must be done.
"The Score" draws comparisons to The Fugees and their impact on hip-hop. How do you feel your track contributes to the evolution of the genre, particularly in terms of its revolutionary message?
No disrespect to what artists have done and are doing, especially for those who are considered “conscious” but there’s nothing more revolutionary in music than what we’re doing in terms of message. We are an actual movement so I don’t expect many to even be close but as far as I’ve seen, we’re the only ones really looking to mobilize our people towards an actual revolution. If there are any aside from us, somebody tap us in!”
Can you share some insights into the lyrical themes explored in "The Score" and how they reflect the values of the 40M movement?
“There’s a lot sauce in there and a lot to take a way for anybody who really listens. But there are certain parts that hit different, especially for our people. Lines like “quick to kill a n***a over ho’ s**t but when them k*****s come, we ain’t on s**t” address the difference in energy our people have with each other versus the energy we have for “others”. There’s nothing gangster about killing one of your own people while running from and allowing your freedom to be snatched away by your real “opp”. Our people have to come back to the cultural overstanding that those who oppose us in power are our actual enemy, not each other.”
What elements do you think set "The Score" apart from other contemporary hip-hop tracks?
“The message and the energy.”
Collaboration seems to be a key aspect of your music, as seen with 40M Tye and Hippie G on this track. How do these collaborations enhance the overall message and impact of your music?
“It’s never been to enhance but there’s power in numbers and we are collective movement so the music represents such. 40M Tye is the bro, Hippie G is the bro and if it’s up to me then the M’s will always be on deck. Tye is a true musician and Hip is a hell of an artist, add them to sauce with me and I can’t see how we can go wrong.”
With a nationwide awareness campaign preceding the release of "The Score," how do you envision this track resonating with your audience, both within and beyond the 40M movement?
“As far as the M’s, it’s another anthem. As far as the movement, it’s a battle cry and a call for action. Our culture, including HipHop, has been bombarded and over saturated with destructive content aimed to demobilize, destabilize, demoralize and more. The continued exploitation and manipulation of our people through “entertainment” has been more than just a hinderance but that changes with us. We’re using music to build, construct, etc but it can only be effective if it’s presented in a form and language that our people can overstand and relate to. For those who are already aware and conscientious, we are their voice. For those are not, we are their guide.”
How do you see "The Score" fitting into the broader landscape of hip-hop music today, especially considering its emphasis on revolutionary themes and social commentary?
“Until there are more truly revolutionary artists, our music will be in a lane all to itself. We don’t need any more songs, rhymes or whatever about getting money, shooting n****s, smashing b*****s, getting high, drunk and anything else they can use against us. We need songs about power, productivity and progression. Songs that bring us together as we should be, not divide us so that we remain conquered. Songs about who we are, our history, our present and our future.”
Looking ahead, what do you hope listeners take away from "The Score," and what can we expect from V of 40M in the future?
“That Independence is coming for all Melanites or “Black” people of the world, starting here in Amerikkka. That we will be self-aware, self-sufficient and self-determined in pursuing our collective political, socioeconomical and cultural development autonomously. That if necessary we will go to war with any and all who oppose our natural born “God given” right to control our own destiny without external interference or intervention. Y’all can expect a motherf***in’ revolution, a few autonomous zones and eventual nation-states or micro nations. Y’all can expect the M’s to fuel the soundtrack to that revolution. Y’all can expect the litiest liberation movement the world has ever seen. Stay tuned - 40M.us, 40M.us, 40M.us, 40M.us! Say it 4x! Search me up, V of 40M in any search engine and see for yourselves. @Vof40M on all socials too, tap in!”
“The Score” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating DA DA DA - Best New MusicWe discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.