DNA Picasso Becomes a Hip-hop Antihero on Extended Playlist Vol.1
Extended Playlist Vol. 1 cover art courtesy of DNA Picasso.
At the top of the summer, Denver hip-hop artist DNA Picasso dropped Extended Playlist Vol. 1, a new six-track EP designed to mimic a playlist-style listening experience. Extended Playlist Vol. 1 is the follow-up to his award-winning 2023 album The Color Blü, which introduced listeners to a softer, more emotionally intelligent version of DNA. On this project, he continues to embrace the same candid lyricism, aiming to educate and uplift his listeners while keeping his voice authentic. “I wanted to not only showcase my rapping ability using the many different styles in my arsenal, but also tell my truth,” he says. He demonstrates the versatility of his vocals on an assorted collection of beats from producers Son Don, Rodney, Siah Rain’n, Daniel Moras, and Gladwell, with guest features from Malcolm Whyz3, Shanay Morant, RO$$A¥, and Trayce Chapman. “This EP fits into the progression [that started with The Color Blü] by giving a raw, honest take on where I’m at and how I feel about things. I’m staying true to my growth by reintroducing people to DNA Picasso, and also putting gems in my music that people can use in life,” DNA explains. “Nipsey Hussle showed us that true bosses arm their communities with knowledge rather than hoarding it. That’s where I’m at right now.”
It’s difficult to make “conscious” hip-hop that doesn’t come off as corny to me, and that’s what DNA accomplishes here. (It’s worth noting that RO$$A¥ and Malcolm Whyz3, featured on “Black Clark Kent” and “10k” respectively, are other prime examples of conscious-not-corny rappers.) Extended Playlist Vol. 1 proves that the enlightened DNA that we met on The Color Blü hasn’t lost his edge. His “gems” from his tenure in the music industry are served with a healthy dose of cynicism, and his inspirational words still sound like rap lyrics rather than Hallmark card captions. Take his lyrics from “Centerfold,” for example: “It’s gon’ happen when it’s supposed to happen boy just wait your turn/Or take yo’ turn if they don’t understand you gotta make ‘em learn.”
The takeaway here is that artists can grow and progress without losing their roots, as long as the change comes from a place of authenticity. DNA didn’t just wake up one day and decide to reinvent himself to capitalize on the popularity of conscious lyricism. He evolved as a person and as an artist, and his sound naturally evolved to reflect that. “I was gearing up to take on more of an executive role in the Colorado music industry. Putting people in positions, producing residencies, providing industry opportunities, and joining different organizations as a board member. The mix of the artist and executive duties can prove to be a lot of work, but for me, both things work hand in hand,” says DNA. He describes the music made during this time as, “Boss rap. Level-up-your-life rap. Expand-your-perspective rap.” As he shares on the chorus of “10k,” “I can teach you how to fish and get yo’ rent paid.”
Thematically, Extended Playlist Vol. 1 lines up with the messaging of The Color Blu, but with a significant shift in tone. On the previous album, DNA encourages vulnerability by opening up about his life, while on his latest EP, he motivates through tough love. “As time has passed throughout my career, I’ve been someone who stands up for myself and what I believe in, and protects those who need to be protected,” he affirms. But sometimes doing what’s right means ruffling some feathers–and DNA doesn’t shy away from that. From the very first track, which opens with a snippet of Tony Montana’s famous “bad guy” monologue from Scarface, DNA plays off the idea of fulfilling a villain role in others’ personal narratives. “At times, I feel like the bad guy for having integrity or being the only one willing to do the right thing. This art form is very collaborative, but also extremely competitive like a sport. Sometimes you’ve got to be the bad guy to get the point across,” he admits. By the fifth song, “Need Somebody,” DNA has acknowledged and accepted this fact, rapping “I’m still alive even after being vilified.” Extended Playlist Vol. 1 explores the nuances between good guys and bad guys, which begs the question, where does DNA Picasso fall on this scale? Oscillating between the two characters throughout this EP, DNA Picasso ultimately rejects both archetypes, emerging as a veritable hip-hop antihero.
Extended Playlist Vol. 1 is available now on all music platforms.
