With the release of his second album, Smith Freesoul, in collaboration with Upeksha, we are privileged to delve deeper into the lives, history, and culture that unfold on the streets of Bogotá. Smith's work offers a sincere portrayal of the realities faced by thousands in cities like Bogotá, where fundamental human rights are often a privilege for only a fortunate few. Yet, Smith also reminds us that our identities are not determined by our circumstances. Although these situations may be bleak, the individuals enduring them display remarkable resilience, creativity, and diligence. Smith shares the narratives of those who inspire hope for a brighter future.
In the opening track of the album, Smith welcomes his childhood friend Anestesia Negra, who delivers the first verse on "Yo Vengo." Together, they proudly showcase the neighborhood that witnessed their evolution from boys to men. Despite the challenges posed by their surroundings, their roots will forever hold a special place in their hearts. The streets imparted invaluable lessons that they will cherish for a lifetime.
In his song "Lujuria," Smith delves deep into the complexities of a world that succumbs to the irresistible allure of lust, that seem to captivate human hearts more an more with the rise of new technologies such as social media. Through his poignant lyrics and captivating melodies, he explores how this influences behavior, relationships, and society as a whole.
In Historias de Ayer, Smith brings us back to his neighbourhood in Soacha, Colombia. He reflects on the fact that all his songs are a product of the past. "Between the songs are stories of yesterday". But at the same time, while the past is always present, he will continue to work on the future. He will continue to write songs. And he will continue to build a legacy.
"Raíses del Pasado," or "Roots of the Past," is an introspective track from the talented Bogotá-based rapper, Smith Freesoul. This powerful song captures the essence of how our past experiences and memories shape who we are today and influence where we’re headed in the future.
Welcome to the vibrant world of Bogotá through the eyes of Smith Freesoul in their captivating track "Derivas." This song beautifully encapsulates the artist's journey as they meander through the bustling streets of their hometown, soaking in experiences and wisdom that shape their identity. With each verse, Smith Freesoul invites listeners to join them on a reflective stroll, where the rhythms of the city become the backdrop for self-discovery and growth. At Upeksha Records, we are proud to support artists like Smith, facilitating the recording of their unique stories and sounds. Dive into "Derivas" and feel the pulse of Bogotá as Smith Freesoul reveals the lessons learned along the way.
Smith Freesoul is a rapper from Bogotá who blends underground rap with reggae and sentimental beats, rhyming about life on the streets, love and politics.
As a teenager Smith lived many years on the streets of the notorious neighbourhood "El Bronx", where drugs, poverty and crime conquered the lives of its inhabitants. At times, Smith got pulled in by his surroundings. And when "El Bronx" was evicted and torn down by the government, he lost his "home". But in rap Smith found a way out. A way to express his feelings, a way to raise his voice, and way to regain the inner strength to stay on the right path and take care of his family. Every day, Smith wakes up early in the morning to rap in the transmilenio bus, offering passengers entertainment on their way to work. But his songs are more than mere entertainment. Smith writes new lyrics everyday, and not a single word is without meaning and purpose. He gives a voice to those who live on the streets and in the slums. Those who are ignored, silenced and discriminated. With his sentimental songs and his catchy reggae hooks, Smith makes sure we want to hear them.
The album is a collaboration between Smith Freesoul and Upeksha Records. Smith wrotes all of the lyrics and showed them to Upeksha's producer Casper te Riele. He then created the beats, recorded the voices and mixed and mastered each song. The songs were recorded inside the music studio of Susanna Fergusson, who herself makes an appearance on the song "Homenaje a la 15". Pablo Fergusson is the second feature of this album. He sings the chorus and second verse of "Hoy Me Levante" The videos where recorded by Casper te Riele and Catalina Barragán Hinestroza on behalve of Upeksha - Voices of Resilience. Finally, the illustration of the album was made by Catalina Barragán Hinestroza.
Amsterdam,
the Netherlands
Whatsapp: +573202085817
Email: info@upeksha-vor.org
IBAN: NL36 INGB 0007930674
ATTN: Stichting Upeksha - Voices of Resilience
BIC: INGBNL2A
CCI: 80727247
RSIN: 861776458