TEACH ME HOW TO DRILL: A Bold Fusion of Styles by Lil Mabu & Fivio Foreign
by Alex Harris
23rd December, 2023
A Surprising Yet Effective Collaboration
When Lil Mabu and Fivio Foreign decided to join forces for TEACH ME HOW TO DRILL, they stirred the pot in the drill music scene. Released amidst the chilly winds of December 2023, this track stands as a testament to the unexpected yet effective collaborations that redefine genres. The production prowess of GRKS, 808k_antares, and Swamiq lays the foundation for a track that’s both hard-hitting and introspective.
Lil Mabu: The Unconventional Prodigy
Lil Mabu, a figure wrapped in enigma and controversy, has been a topic of hot debate. His journey, marked by his debut mixtape, “Double M’s,” released in 2022, showcases his unique approach to rap. One of his tracks this year, Mathematical Disrespect, became a viral sensation, demonstrating Mabu’s skillful blend of mathematical concepts with witty and provocative lyrics. This song, a clever play on mathematical terms, showcases Mabu’s ability to use his privileged background and education as a source of inspiration and confidence, defying the typical narrative of many New York drill artists.
Fivio Foreign: The Drill Scene’s Maestro
Fivio Foreign, a stalwart in the New York drill scene, brings a seasoned touch to this collaboration. His role transcends that of a mere collaborator; he’s a mentor, a guide through the labyrinth of drill music. His verses are not just words; they’re lessons from the streets, delivered with a rhythm that only a veteran like Fivio can master.
The Track: A High-Energy Symphony
TEACH ME HOW TO DRILL is an energetic symphony, a blend of ominous beats and clever wordplay. The lyrics, a mix of bravado and street wisdom, reflect the realities of their environment. The track is a conversation between two artists from different walks of life, each bringing their own unique flavour to the table. The hook, catchy and profound, is an open invitation to their world, a world with its own rules and codes.
The Video: Cringe Yet Creative
The music video, while eliciting mixed reactions, is undeniably creative. It’s not just a collection of visuals; it’s a narrative, a portrayal of the mentor-student dynamic between Fivio and Mabu. The video’s emphasis on loyalty and street wisdom, wrapped in a somewhat cringe yet fun package, adds depth to the song’s narrative.
The Cultural Impact
This collaboration, while potentially polarising among drill purists, embodies the spirit of rap—fun, universal, and unapologetically bold. With over 2.1 million views on YouTube in one day. It reflects the realities of street life and the evolution of hip-hop as a genre. This track is a cultural statement, showcasing the genre’s ability to evolve and embrace diverse artistic expressions.
In Retrospect: A Genre-Defining Track
In conclusion, TEACH ME HOW TO DRILL by Lil Mabu and Fivio Foreign stands as a genre-defining moment. It’s a track that combines high energy and clever wordplay and tells a story, educates, and entertains, all while staying true to the roots of drill music.
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