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"I Rock" is the lead single from Open Mike Eagle's debut, Unapologetic Art Rap. The album version pairs an infectious beat from Los Angeles heavyweight Exile (who's instrumental is also included) with a hip-hop fable in two halves. The first verse details the artist's dual life as a 9-5 breadwinner by day, and indie-rap superhero by night. With the hook, "It is insulting, cause I can't rap for my job / I'd quit this bullshit, but I can't live like a slob / The way I want to baby, swimming in hip-hop" Open Mike Eagle puts voice to the frustration of trying to make it both as an artist and a grown-up. By the time verse two details a typical week in the life of the LA rhymesmith, you can see why he's falling asleep at work (check the fantastic "I Rock" video for visual proof). After his job fell casualty to the 2010 recession, the rapper's first idea was to beg the Pixies to cover the track for the B-side. Realizing that would be impossible, he decided to tackle the job himself. Supplied with a beat from UK producer Awkward, the result is "I Rock (For The Unemployed)" - a remake that keeps the meaning and melody, but in totally changing the feel, highlights Open Mike Eagle's impressive range as an artist.
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