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By Emmanuel Daraloye
Stephybeats has grown as a producer, going beyond the basic level of putting instruments together in a cohesive form to make beats. While that ability is not easy in itself, there is a reason why some producers are seen more as sound designers than beat makers. Either through simple beats or more layered projects, Stephybeats has left a mark on many an artist, who would attest to his attention to detail and precision while on the decks. He shows this mastery in a collaboration with artist PHRV for the latter’s single “Holding On” featuring Melky.
Once the song comes on, the listener would notice that the production sets a calm tone that gives the subject matter of the song room to thrive. A song that takes the introspective route, the lowkey, down-tempo energy of “Holding On” is not a vibe killer. Although not set up to be a party starter, the message of the song rings through the listener’s ears and leaves an impression about PHRV’s perspective on navigating the trials of the world by focusing on God’s word as a primary source of truth.
Christian hip-hop comes in a lot of shapes and forms. “Holding On” is created on the foundation of a simple drum pattern that is accentuated by kicks and some shakers. By default, the selection of these instruments makes for an introspective outlook. The pace of the beat also gives the artist PHRV an opportunity to lay down his lyrics with ease. A selection of somber sounds, the production acts as a blank slate which allows PHRV to craft any type of lyrical and rhythmic patterns he would like. One thing Stephybeats does well is he gives his artists the freedom to explore their lyrical arsenal on his production. The measure of his artistry goes beyond working the dials on beatmaking software, he has a natural understanding for synergy and collaboration.
Another great measure of Stephybeats’s ability as a producer is the fact that his beats almost tell you what to say. Not every type of subject matter works for every type of instrumental; that fact is clear. Some subject matters are almost decided by the energy that a production gives off, coupled with the types of instrumentals selected for that purpose. There is a natural dovetailing effect that this production has with the subject matter. The gentle shakers along with the mellow kicks already invite the artist to write about something that pulls on his heart strings and feels close to his soul. PHRV also has credit for his beat selection, demonstrating a good awareness for how he and Stephybeats collaborate.
“Holding On” is a record that connects. Whether religious or not, a listener can come across this record and feel touched by many elements of the song — either by the heartwarming combination of instruments, PHRV’s spurring delivery or the introspective element of the record. Either way, “Holding On” leaves a strong impression and has potential to direct the hearts of its listeners toward something more divine and less worldly. The combination of their talents makes for a unique blend of musical mastery and soul.
