Lloyd Banks, Dave East, & Vado – Runways (Freestyle)

Yet another week, another Lloyd Banks song. Life is good, folks. A former G-Unit rapper is present with “Runways Freestyle,” an inspirational and introspective track that includes fellow New York veteran artists Dave East and Vado. The title fails to accurately portray the nature of this song, which has a more solid composition.

It’s genuinely more of a real song than a freestyle. That’s our only criticism because Lloyd has managed to do it once more. Set over a soulful chop and crisp boom bap beat, he and his co-stars shine with passionate and thoughtful lyrics.

The addition of Banks’ chorus lends a more emotional depth, resulting in a well-rounded listening experience. Mental health, pursuing one’s aspirations, and setting a precedent for other rappers are all subjects that are tackled and handled effectively.

We’ve previously noted this in the earlier Banks write-ups, but for a comprehensive project, we require all of these tracks and additional ones. The fans in the comments have been enthusiastically embracing Lloyd Banks’ recent output to the extent that it’s almost inevitable.

“‘You gotta chase your dream, no one will back you up,’ the harsh realities of life,” one person says, quoting the rapper’s lyrics. Banks has experienced an exceptionally strong and unpredictable performance over the past few years. Every single thing he has released has been exceptionally good. Currently, one of the top 5 MCs around today,” another adds.

It’s challenging to disagree with that stance and we expect him to be listening to all of this feedback because he deserves the respect.

This month has seen “Runways Freestyle” become the fifth release of its kind. His lyrical exercise over Clipse’s “Ace Trumpets” has been the catalyst for what’s followed, and it’s been a pleasure to observe a master in action.