For anyone who doesn’t know who PIVE is, I am sorry, but you’ve been missing out on a real hip-hop gem! PIVE might surprise you—his artistry goes beyond first impressions, but one thing is clear: he means business, coming through with a tried and tested sound, one that earned him critical acclaim as soon as he released his breakthrough viral project “I Will Forever Be” album, winning the hearts and souls of rap music fanatics in indescribably massive ways that he had to give them two more installments of the same. And true to form, he did not disappoint.
A powerhouse on the mic with a surprisingly calm demeanor, PIVE is an explosive wordsmith whose way with words and fascinatingly lyrical and poetic cadence backed by his incisively sharp and strong delivery make him one of his kind.
“Real Ones 2” is another dynamic and purposeful track that takes listeners on a journey back to the 22nd St. block where PIVE grew up, talking about the shared memories with friends and family and how life took new turns for everyone as they grew up, some getting married and having kids, others pursuing their careers, and him following his musical passion relentlessly. At the end of it all, he acknowledges everyone he grew up with and those who played a role in his life…the highlight message being one of empowerment for everyone to continue pulling themselves up and remember that they will always remain his’real ones’ no matter what.
The intro sets the mood with soothing guitar melodies, complemented by subtle fiddle tones and keys that create an inviting atmosphere. What follows soon are these deep and dynamic beats that are drum and percussion peppered with some dense gravity, giving the song a certain alternative and pop thrill that PIVE walks on faultlessly, balancing the weight of his personal-fueled lyrics and the memorably infectious hook that sticks to the mind forever.
The music video is another intimate and relevant artpiece of this song, as it was shot where PIVE grew up, acting as a palpable extension of the song and the inspiration behind it.
Be sure to add “Real Ones 2” to your playlist—it’s a track you’ll keep coming back to.
Keep up with PIVE by checking him out on Instagram @piveiwillforeverbe.