Out of every time period in our history, signature voices have emerged that encapsulate the energy of the age. Poised as the harbinger of a new hip-hop era in 2020, Sgt. Denoh Grear is that voice, giving us a deep glimpse into the psyche of a creative mind born out of conflict.
Juxtaposed against the backdrop of chaos and death, this free spirit was birthed into the world on a middle eastern battlefield, his mother from Sierra Leon and father from war-torn Liberia. At the first draw of his breath, it seems Sgt. Denoh Grear’s life was destined to be consumed by conflict, yet the existence of his music is a victorious testament to the life of an overcomer.
While still stationed overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan, Sgt. Denoh Grear began working to achieve his dream to build a global brand for a global audience that showcases his talents as a musician, poet, designer, and photographer. His cousin Amara Freeman was instrumental in the realization of the vision, who helped him to create the multimedia entertainment company MyMixTape LLC.
Upon review of his album, “Iraqi Chronicles”, the listener is instantly pulled into an uplifting melodic experience, complete with background vocals and catchy hooks that compel a sing-along. However, as the lyrics come into focus, often a dark subject matter pierces the heart and makes one think deeply.
Sgt. Denoh’s style is reminiscent of a Maya Angelou poetic flow, coupled with the gritty hard-core delivery like that of legendary rappers Eric B. and Rakim. The signature track, “PTSD” is an excellent display of this, and the artist even pays homage to the aforementioned poet at the beginning of the song [https://www.amazon.com/Ptsd/dp/B01MSNZBUY]. Another track on the album, “Citizen Soldier”, is a heartfelt cry from the decorated wounded warrior that addresses the hidden shadows of the human soul [https://music.apple.com/by/album/citizen-soldier-feat-john-fitzgerald-mcgill/1178180049?i=1178180742].
Sgt. Denoh Grear has already produced music with some of the most known names in hip-hop, such as Chucky Thompson, Hit Makers, Bad Boy Entertainment, Tory Lanez and, Grammy-winning artist Jay Frigolette and DJ Khaled to name a few. This veteran’s track record of exemplary service has also been recognized by the White House and the David Lynch Foundation. He is currently working on a documentary and several music videos and plans to use the proceeds to bring further awareness the causes he supports, like AIDS research, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder awareness, and arts education for at-risk youth in the United States and abroad.
Imo Wimana Chadband, known to the creative world as Wimana, is a music enthusiast, songwriter, poet, author, and screenwriter, with 10+ years’ experience working in the creative world.
His love for hip-hop/rap music and writing was discovered in his years at High School, and the rest is as they say, history. Wimana’s passion for journalism and writing would lead to him releasing several creative projects personally, as well as provide writing services professionally for clients globally.
He has written and curated content for various blogs and websites with his unique writing style, and continues to expand his arsenal to give readers the best experience through his work.
