Newman has released a new project, titled dust on the akai. The Raleigh, North Carolina rapper, producer, and creative director has been carving out a space that feels deliberate, grounded in soulful production and clear, introspective writing. His music leans into bigger questions- purpose, faith, self-direction- without losing the grit and sharpness of high-level rap.
His new project dust on the akai centers on a simple but effective idea: the untouched MPC, sitting there collecting dust. It’s a metaphor that lands quickly- the gap between knowing what you’re capable of and actually doing something about it. This project lives right in that moment, when hesitation starts to wear thin and action takes over.
“LAYAWAY” opens things on a warm, focused note, with rich sampling and steady bass setting the tone. From there, “US OPEN” picks up the pace, bringing sharper energy and tighter flows over bright, driving production. “WITHOUT WORK,” featuring Mimo Thomas, stretches things out a bit more, layering guitars and strings over drums that keep it moving without losing that reflective edge.
A standout comes with “WHILE THE CLOCK IS TICKING,” where orchestral elements meet boom-bap drums. It feels urgent without being overdone, giving Newman space to deliver some of his most direct writing on the project. “EVERLASTING,” featuring Ko, shifts slightly into a more melodic pocket, adding some bounce without breaking the overall mood.
By the time “LANDSCAPE” closes things out, the vision feels complete- cinematic, but still personal. dust on the akai makes for a poignant project that is focused, intentional, and honest about where Newman is right now. More importantly, it sounds like someone who’s done waiting. Check out dust on the akai on our platform now.
Connect with Newman HERE.
ROUNDHOUSE MUSIC 