Atlanta producer MC Shep expanded his collection extensively this year, beginning with perhaps his most distinct pop-crossover track of all.
The Hoedown Get Down is everything you’d expect from its title. The release showcases the classic upbeat energy of MC Shep by way of a floor-filling pop single – complete with its own dance moves, a quirky Western riff, and a vocal call and response for that all-inclusive vibe.
Other classic indie hits from MC Shep this year include the song that first introduced the producer’s affinity for easy and accessible choreography – the funky bassline and spoken instructional optimism of ATL Stepping. This track emerges with a fully-envisioned video to reinforce the nostalgic, laid-back energy of the song, and once again, the music holds true to the increasingly recognisable MC Shep style and voice.
Showcasing a whole other side to the MC Shep creative force, the producer’s take on the classic single Three Little Birds is perhaps one of the most unexpected covers of recent years. This electro-disco arrangement shines further light and colour on the timeless Bob Marley hit, and the faster pace with a choir of reinforced vocals all injects a clear party energy and togetherness – into a song that’s already renowned for its positivity and hopeful, inspiring core.
In keeping with the Christmas season that’s now upon us, MC Shep’s single Home with you (for the holidays – Remix) is a smooth and catchy seasonal hit, with featured vocals that light up an RnB progression and a brilliantly fresh hook. Perhaps one of Shep’s most memorable and likable singles yet, the arrangement, performance, and writing of this one all stands tall with effortless warmth and melodic prowess.
Then to bring things full circle once more, the distorted intensity and sheer tempo of Just Dance! celebrates the unlimiited passion and fun that MC Shep continues to provide. The track hits a little harder than others, veering towards the more alternative or underground dance music of our time, but then redirects things with a chaotic nineties chorus that again focuses on positivity, with its resounding “I’m gonna dance my troubles away.”
Last but not least, from the 2024 Southern Soul EP, Vol. 1, Big Daddy’s On The Way relights the funky bassline and brings through a smooth, likable melodic flow, blending that Southern Soul implication with something a little bluesy but bright, for a track that again provides a relentless earworm and a welcomed trip down music production’s eclectic memory lane.
MC Shep’s integrity and energy as a producer continue to separate his repertoire and original style from much of the modern scene. His ability to engage, to entertain and uplift, stands tall throughout a consistently versatile catalogue of music, and if you’re new to his sound, these six tracks make for the perfect place to begin.
Find MC Shep on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X, YouTube, Apple & his Website.
