
Mick Jenkins is sneaking in one last track before 2014 comes to a close. Given current events across America, it's wholly fitting and timely too. Right after dropping the track, Jenkins took to Twitter to explain the meaning behind "11."
The man said i can't breathe....11 times...
— The Water[s] (@mickjenkins) December 29, 2014
Jenkins' tweet and the Eric Garner-inspired "11" are encouraging moves from the Chicago rapper. As we've seen with J. Cole, and Killer Mike, and many other artists, the hip-hop community haven't been watching the news silently. In light of current events, and with so much social tension and protesting happening around the country, seeing hip-hop stars from across different generations use their platform for a greater social purpose is positive. How the subsequent music and the dose of reality it brings, however, can take its toll:
As far as new music goes.... I want to give you feels...
— The Water[s] (@mickjenkins) December 29, 2014
But When I finished recording "11" I realized if I continued to make music based entirely off how I'm feeling it'd be sad as shit.
— The Water[s] (@mickjenkins) December 29, 2014
Listen to the end for Jenkins' chilling repetition of “I can’t breathe. I can’t breathe. I can’t breathe.” Stream "11" below.