Catchy old school production and songwriting instantly redirects expectations of the unforgettable new anthem from Xefferson.
The globally renowned term GOAT is exemplified by way of an unignorably joyful melodic progression, alongside classic hip hop production and a humble yet striking vocal depth on the front line.
Xefferson’s identity and playful confidence on the mic help further light up an already unexpectedly retro arrangement, and all of these qualities work brilliantly together in delivering a fairly timeless, likeable and fearlessly original take on what’s possible in hip hop fusion.
As the track progresses, the bars delve a little deeper into the wordplay and ideas Xefferson is relaying, and at the same time the soundscape opens up – even incorporating a touch of sax during the latter half, which shines a whole new level of optimism on proceedings.
There’s almost a touch of irony in the nostalgic presentation of this otherwise contemporary exploration of concept. The very thought of the GOAT is undoubtedly a modern day reference, but the yesteryear production and confident melodic stylings of this release draw focus to anything but the current sound of the scene. However, that aspect of going against the grain actually seems naturally in tune with the acts of a true GOAT, so the whole thing just works creatively.
Xefferson’s lyrics adopt a storytelling approach both vague and conceptually committed, utilising equal parts humour and self-empowerment to weave an ultimately motivational web of possibility. The results speak volumes, and GOAT proves an unmissable alternative rap hit – perhaps with the potential to help completely reshape the 2024 hip hop landscape.
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Hi Xefferson – thanks for the interview, excited to talk music with you. To introduce things, where are you based, and how long have you been making music?
I’ve making music since I was 12 years old, born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona .
Tell me about the inspiration for Goat – are you a fan of old school hip hop and music in general, or was this an intentional stylistic shift to recapture a certain side of the industry?
Maybe a bit of both. I love a good old school hip-hop track; especially the ones that have a funky feel to it. I’m a fan of all kinds of music — even the ones I may not understand. With this song specifically, I aimed to recapture the feelings of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Also I want anyone hearing the song to feel good and get lost in the groove.
Goat was just my way of motivating myself and having a good time, as the journey of pursuing this field is no easy feat.
Do you produce your own tracks, and if not, how do you choose producers worthy of collaboration?
I do produce my own tracks, but I am definitely open and looking forward to collaborating with producers. I’d personally need who I work with to have a genuine appreciation of the pioneers before us. Quincy Jones, Timbaland, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis instantly come to mind as people who create for the joy of it. When they produce, they are never scared to experiment and push the boundaries of what is already done, seeing what new sound that they can create. Whether that be mixing rock with pop or hip-hop with jazz. It’s something that I’d be looking for when I’m working with another producer: having the mindset of growth and resolve of pushing boundaries and seeing where music can go.
You’ve amassed an impressive following on YouTube, how different is the creation of video content to making original music for multiple formats?
It’s actually more alike than different. With my videos I think of the best way to keep the audience engaged. That could be switching up/disrupting the flow, repetition and patterns, but most importantly I make sure to think from the mind of the potential viewer, and their takeaway from something they once didn’t know.
The same goes for music. Both involve and consider the experience of the person listening, and in fact doing, but for the question’s sake, the biggest difference I feel is that music can be more vulnerable, when the intention is set to serve others. It opens up a whole new world, and people get to take away their own interpretations, and maybe be inspired and ponder on the artistic choices that you make.
The unique vocal depth and playful lyricism of your music is no doubt a calling card across a totally varied array of tracks. Who are your greatest inspirations creatively, and what are the main qualities you want to bring to modern music?
There is so many that this answer could turn into an essay haha. Creatively Michael & Janet Jackson, Nicki Minaj, & Beyonce. The few listed here have inspired me through showmanship, the diversity of their albums, and just the impact from the message that they deliver while also having a good time.
The main qualities I want to bring to modern music is a full body of work and music with substance that someone can listen to in 20-30 years time and be like wow that still hits so good because numbers aside and viewership what did the song really do? But I want to make sure that there’s a sense of fun in my music and in learning as I go and improving and never becoming so high over my head so: humility, grace and growth.
How important is it for you to balance humour and more serious reflections in your creative work, and how different does your mindset or mood need to be in either case?
I blend humor and serious reflections as result of the experiences life throws my way. While my personal journey often involves serious moments, I’ve found that maintaining a balance is vital for my well-being.
“For me to bring my best for others, I have to have a mindset of serving; offering something unexpected but impactful.”
I try not to lean towards one side when absolute where I’m too serious or being too funny because it would not truly represent the work that I do. Everybody goes to struggle and being able to find the light in it is what allows me to have humor. I believe it also shows listeners that I’m confident in my writing playful in my bars give me more of a personality, because when the person is not listening, because when somebody’s listening without a video or visual, I still want them to feel the funkiness going on in and the good vibes. that brings the production side is probably the most crucial part because the bars are there.
Do you have a plan of action for 2024, or will you take things one week at a time and see how the creativity flows?
Yes. Right now we’re in the GOAT. Season. I’m taking the time to explore the possibilities of this song.
Though I have many more songs — that I will eventually share, — I’m not going to rush my craft.
Any live appearances on the horizon?
Yes, I am looking into small public venues that I could perform the song or even street performances.
Is there anything else we need to know?
I’m the Goat.
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Single out January 19th – Pre-save it here. Find Xefferson on YouTube & Instagram.
