I’ll admit, it took me some time to get hip to YBN Cordae but upon listening to his work, I totally see what everyone is going crazy about. This kid’s flows, cadences, diction, voice and versatility puts him on the same level as a J.I.D, Smino or REASON for me. “Have Mercy,” his new single, is just more evidence you can use to backup all of the hype surrounding him.

The track displays this inner struggle where he’s hoping to maintain his authentic self, but simultaneously enjoy the spoils that being a great rapper brings. He’s bragging, but introspective. He’s asking for Jesus’ mercy and grace as he continues along his path. Nils, Kid Culture and Flippa all had a hand in laying out a simple yet effective beat for the young rapper to kill.

That whole YBN crew has some special things happening, and Cordae could very well take things to new heights in 2019. Don’t just take my word for it, listen yourself below!