Grammy-winning Atlanta rap vet T.I., assisted by beloved, freed Philly rapper Meek Mill, dropped a worthwhile, Latin-infused banger with “Jefe.”

In the 00s, T.I. was one of the biggest, most popular, commercially successful rappers.  The self-proclaimed ‘King of the South,’ a Grammy-award winner, was definitely a fixture beyond the Atlanta rap scene.  The 10s haven’t been quite as kind, but that comes with age, and the ‘short shelf life’ that is the music industry these days, sigh.  He enlists the East Coast, Meek Mill, for the assist on his latest single, “Jefe.” What exactly is a jefe? According to good, ole Merriam-Webster, a “chief, leader.”

“Jefe” commences with an intro that includes a Spanish woman being sexy, as well as a confident excerpt from Dave Chapelle – at least according to the Genius annotation. Meek Mill takes the first verse, accompanied by Latin-tinged horns (think Mariachi), and minor-key production that’s perfect fuel for the fire.  Naturally, he’s ‘turned-up’, dropping an electrifying flow with flexing bars to match.  Eschewing a hook, T.I. segues on the second verse, confidently asserting, “Let me welcome you, get introduced to the king.”  Like Meek Mill, T.I. is fired-up, rapping with agility, southern accent and all, and flexing like a “boss.” Hey, the song’s called jefe, so the two rappers are living up to the title.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Jefe” is a solid banger from T.I. and Meek Mill.  Does it change the perception or trajectory of either rapper? No.  At this point, you know what you’re getting from both, and while “Jefe” is enjoyable, it’s not necessarily enough to “move the needle” or cause a massive resurgence.  Still, for fans of both rappers, they are lit here.  No, it’s not the caliber of “What You Know,” but we must realize it’s 2018, not 2006, sigh.

T.I. • Jefe (Ft. Meek Mill) – Single • Epic • Release: 9.7.18

Photo Credit: Epic