Some would say the release of Gilbere Forte’s, PRAY, is the start of a new beginning. But once you press play, it becomes apparent that the Philly rep has been on this journey for quite some time and is finally ready to share it.
The rapper has followed a path that others could only dream of: Sign to a label, walk away and fly out to Paris to record with Bob Sinclair, then sign to Epic Records. His first project, reintroducing himself, is called PRAY (download here).
Forte says PRAY represents him, what he does, the type of music he makes and his approach to get his message out. The project is a perfectly mixed combination of tracks that speak on love, religion, success, and starting a new part of life. The 10-track mixtape was mostly produced by fellow Philly producer RAAK and includes limited collaborations. But the few features provides Forte the opportunity to singularly express himself via club bangers and deeper, denser gems. Check below to listen and click through for a track-by-track rundown on PRAY. —Jaz T. Cuevas
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“The Awakening” (Produced by White Sea; Remixed by RAAK)
This is the first track on the tape and also the single featured on the PRAY trailer. The aggression and emotions that have come from everything Forte has encountered. As the title suggests, Forte has finally realized his potential.
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“Nolita” (Produced by RAAK)
This single reflects on that one love you can’t get over, even years after parting ways. Forte raps about his own personal experiences with an unexpected twist at the end. -
“Polaroids” (Co-Produced by RAAK & Grandtheft)
This is the perfect track to bump in your car and jam out to. Forte raps about his everything he has gone through to get to where he is and how others don’t understand him so they feel like he lost his mind. -
“Anigma” (Produced by RAAK)
If you are looking to get turnt up then this is the perfect song for you! “Anigma” is one of RAAK’s standout productions and will definitely be played in the clubs for everyone to bump their heads, snap their fingers and wild out. On top of hot beat, Forte’s lyrics are on a different level. It’s just a dope track all around. -
“PRAY” (Produced by RAAK)
“PRAY” was the first single to be released off of this mixtape and was actually the record that got the attention of L.A.Reid. The track is probably the mixtape’s hardest. Forte raps about religion, being in his own lane, and his journey. -
“Streets Stay Crashing” (Produced by The Chromatics; Remixed by RAAK)
This single has a more meaningful vibe to it and the chorus has a mellow flow to it. “Streets Stay Crashing” forces you to think as Forte raps about topics like egos, waking up alone and changes. -
“Down For The Ride” (Produced by Bengie)
This track goes hand-in-hand with a nice glass of Hennessey while you smoke one. It has a smooth, low bass beat and it features Forte rapping about those that have been down with him for the ride, chasing your dreams and finally reaching them. This track gives listeners that motivation to keep pushing forward and to continue to stay true to yourself and those you are down for. -
“Double Cupped” (Produced by RAAK)
This chopped-and-screwed song is definitely for the ladies. Forte touches on women living freely—even if her actions affect others. -
“Forever Sin featuring Active Child” (Produced by RAAK)
Another record about a tough relationship. Forte described the basis of the record: “Whatever you want to make right out of a bad situation, turns out to be a sin of your own.” -
“Fall For Nothing featuring Nylo” (Co-Produced by Ghost Loft & RAAK)
A fitting closing, “Fall For Nothing” talks love, family, music, his path to his current destination.