DJ 6ix’s Hands: His magical production skills in making of Harteez’s Revolution EP

By Motolani Alake

“Bad Boys,” the eagerly awaited track by Harteez featuring Kabex, has lived up to its hype, creating a significant buzz among fans on Instagram and Twitter.

Released on June 4, 2023, as the lead single from Harteez’s upcoming Revolution EP, the song sets the stage for an exciting project.

Harteez, known for his lyrical talent, showcases his skills once again in “Bad Boys.” His collaboration with Kabex, another indigenous rapper, results in an electrifying exchange of rap bars that reflect the raw energy and competitive spirit of Yoruba hip-hop.

The track is a powerful mix of rhythmic aggression and lyrical prowess, reminiscent of Da Grin, Reminisce, Olamide, and Lord of Ajasa. Could this be the evolution Harteez hints at? Or a true revolution as the EP title suggests? The answer seems clear: Harteez is making a bold statement about his intent to dominate the industry.

Key to the track’s success is DJ 6ix. “DJ 6ix na bad ass writer and he’s the inspiration behind the song as he made the beat and sent it to me, that’s how I came up with the song,” Harteez said in his interview with Glitch, highlighting DJ 6ix’s role in both writing and production.

DJ 6ix’s contribution to “Bad Boys” is immense. As the producer, he created a beat that seamlessly blends hip-hop and Afrobeat elements, anchored by a deep 808 bassline typical of trap music. This mix provides a compelling backdrop for Harteez and Kabex’s fiery verses. DJ 6ix recorded his own vocal, then mixed it and turned it into a loop with effects for the first 24 seconds of the song. The sound goes “hunnn hunnn,” setting an ominous tone and building anticipation for the rap onslaught that follows. This creative choice showcases DJ 6ix’s skill in setting the mood and enhancing the track’s narrative. Harteez’s intense delivery in the first verse grips the listener immediately.

Despite its strengths, “Bad Boys” has some flaws. The absence of a chorus might make the song less memorable for some listeners who prefer a hook to sing along to. Could DJ 6ix have done something more here? Perhaps. However, he compensates by incorporating his own vocal elements at the beginning and end of the track, creating a unique sound that bridges the gap left by the missing chorus. This creative approach highlights his ability to adapt and fill creative voids in the music.

The energy and lyrical intensity of “Bad Boys” cater to a niche audience that appreciates rap’s complexity and competitive edge. Fans of Harteez and Kabex are

likely to embrace the song’s raw authenticity and memorize its intricate verses. It’s clear that rap music has a dedicated fan base willing to absorb every word of their idols’ lyrics.

DJ 6ix’s influence on “Bad Boys” extends beyond production. His ability to merge various musical elements and his keen sense for setting the mood significantly elevate the track. His production skills are evident in the song’s intricate layering, from the hip-hop and Afrobeat percussion to the trap-like 808 bassline. Moreover, DJ 6ix’s role in songwriting and his strategic vocal contributions showcase his comprehensive understanding of the music-making process.

In “Bad Boys,” DJ 6ix’s production skills are on full display. By creating a beat that complements the aggressive and competitive nature of the rappers, he ensures the track maintains a cohesive and engaging flow. His innovative use of vocal loops and instrumental variations adds depth and texture, making the absence of a traditional chorus less noticeable. This was likely intentional, suiting the cypher-like nature of the track.

“Bad Boys” is a testament to the collaborative synergy between Harteez, Kabex, and DJ 6ix. The track sets a high bar for the Revolution EP, promising a project that is both artistically ambitious and culturally significant. While the song may challenge mainstream preferences with its lack of a chorus, its lyrical and production quality make it a standout piece in contemporary Yoruba hip-hop.

As Harteez aims to cement his place in the industry and overcome any obstacles in his path, the Revolution EP, with contributions from talents like Kabex and DJ 6ix, signals a new era for indigenous rap music.

Fans can look forward to more innovative collaborations and perhaps a fusion with other musical styles in future releases. Will this be the revolution Harteez promises? All signs point to yes.