In honor of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to participate in a series of essays reflecting on identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
•• •• •• ••
Today, acclaimed rapper, singer, and songwriter Sy Ari Da Kid feels a deep responsibility to share his musical gift, not only as a form of personal therapy, but also as a source of healing for others, recognizing its power to inspire change and uplift his community, in a special essay for Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series!
Sy Ari Da Kid is an Atlanta-based artist and producer known for his versatility, introspective lyrics, and consistent independent grind. Originally from The Bronx, New York, he later moved to Atlanta, where he honed his craft and built a strong presence in the hip-hop and R&B scenes. He gained early recognition through battle rap and mixtapes before transitioning into a more melodic and storytelling-driven style. Over the years, Sy Ari has collaborated with notable artists like Bryson Tiller, Jadakiss, T.I., Trouble, and K Camp. His projects often blend hip-hop, R&B, and soul, showcasing his ability to switch between rapping and singing effortlessly.
A key aspect of his career is his independence: He’s released multiple projects without major label backing, emphasizing creative control and direct connections with his fanbase. His 2016 project B4 the Heartbreak, featuring Bryson Tiller, helped him gain significant attention, and he has continued to drop well-received albums, including 2 Soon, The Shadow in the Shade, and The Process.
Sy Ari Da Kid’s music frequently explores themes of love, struggle, success, and self-reflection, making him a respected name among fans of conscious and melodic hip-hop.
He recently released ‘The Last Shadow In The Shade,’ the deeply personal and introspective conclusion to his album trilogy. The album is a testament to resilience, passion and the determination to carve out space in an industry and a reminder that true artistry shines beyond the spotlight.
“This album marks the conclusion of a classic trilogy, created for those who’ve often felt overshadowed in this industry,” says Sy Ari Da Kid. “I want everyone to connect with my passion and experiences—navigating a competitive landscape where the spotlight isn’t always on us, yet we persevere, forging our own paths and overcoming the challenges ahead. From the soulful samples to the carefully chosen features, every artist contributes a story that resonates with the struggles and triumphs we all share.”
Read Sy Ari Da Kid’s Black History Month essay below, and listen to ‘The Last Shadow In The Shade’ wherever you stream music!
•• ••
•• ••
THE LAST SHADOW IN THE SHADE
by Sy Ari Da Kid
As a strong Black man in America, I feel a deep, unwavering responsibility to use the gift of music that God has blessed me with.
For me, this gift is not just a form of self-expression; it serves as both a personal therapy and a source of healing for others. Through my music, I hope to create something that people can relate to, build upon, and draw strength from as they navigate their own lives. I recognize the power of my voice and the platform that I’ve been given, and I intend to use them to make an impact.
I refuse to be silent.
I refuse to conform to the negative patterns and harmful habits that society has tried to impose upon us, particularly in our communities.
The world may try to box us into a corner with expectations that prioritize lesser values or encourage the spread of evil, but I will not stand for it. I will continue to speak my truth boldly, without filtering my words or succumbing to fear. As both a leader and a father, my duty is to set an example for my family, my community, and my culture. I carry this responsibility with pride, because I understand the importance of paving a better way forward for the generations that will come after us.
This weight we bear is not just for ourselves; it’s for the future of our people, and it requires us to move one day at a time, with unwavering determination.
Despite the obstacles we face, I remain confident in the truth that we shall overcome, as we have time and time again throughout history.
Even though the music industry can be a greedy, biased, and challenging space, I will not be deterred.
I will continue to move forward, quietly but with purpose, remaining a shadow in every shade until my message is understood and felt by the masses. – Sy Ari Da Kid
•• ••
:: stream Sy Ari Da Kid here ::
•• ••
•• •• •• ••
Connect to Sy Ari Da Kid on
Instagram, X, TikTok
Discover new music on Atwood Magazine
© Chase Gozy
:: Stream Sy Ari Da Kid ::
