North Side Will’s music exists in its own lane, a polished, sample-rich style that draws from Dom Kennedy’s soulful textures, Freddie Gibbs’ sharp realism, and Rick Ross’s grandeur. Rooted in the South, his sound feels both nostalgic and contemporary. He’s already earned credibility among hip-hop purists through collaborations with icons like Conway the Machine and Ghostface Killah, while his motivational themes connect with fans who crave music with substance. His new five-track EP, “Free Game,” is a continuation of this approach, a project that transforms hard-learned lessons into guidance. Rooted in classic hip-hop soul but fresh in execution, it’s music meant to be held onto.
The EP kicks off with “Cold,” featuring Dinero Sinatra, a cautionary tale about the steep price of ambition. Will reflects on betrayal, envy, and the harsh realities of the industry. His hook, “they say the game is to be paid…ain’t no minimum,” perfectly encapsulates the message. To succeed in this grind, you have to give everything. It’s a raw, clear-eyed opener that sets the stakes from the jump.
“Small Wins” serves as the project’s emotional centerpiece. Will gets personal here, exploring themes of loyalty, growth, and genuine self-elevation. Supported by soulful background vocals, his delivery is piercingly honest, giving the track a warmth that touches on R&B. The song feels less like a performance and more like a conversation with a trusted friend who is offering a way forward.
On the third song, “Location Remote,” his skills as a lyricist are on full display. A midtempo, old-school beat provides the canvas for him to build intricate bars and rhyme schemes with precision. The track is a powerful reminder that pain has a cost and that finding purpose requires sacrifice. It’s a gritty and thought-provoking piece that solidifies his reputation as a master storyteller.
The EP takes a soulful turn with “More Life,” featuring Dray Taylor. Its hook is instantly memorable, and the heartfelt vocal layers give the song an anthemic quality. Will raps candidly about how pain has shaped his art, turning personal struggle into a source of strength. “More Life” is cathartic, the kind of song listeners will return to when they need comfort or a reminder that beauty can emerge from hardship.
The project closes with “Gotta Feel Me,” featuring South, a track that captures a feeling of quiet triumph. Over smooth, laid-back production, Will’s verses feel like a steady victory lap, reflecting on setbacks and the perseverance needed to overcome them. His cadence has the authority of someone who has lived every word, making the finale both motivational and deeply relatable. It’s a statement that every loss eventually leads to a well-earned win.
Ultimately, “Free Game” is exactly what the title suggests. This isn’t just music made to show off lyrical ability, though Will does that effortlessly. It’s about passing on knowledge without gatekeeping, turning personal struggles into lessons for others. Each song acts as a chapter with themes of ambition, loyalty, and resilience woven throughout. The project is a natural extension of his identity, reflecting his Southern roots, military discipline, and commitment to independent art. It’s for fans who value authenticity, and the substance is what will keep them listening.