New York City-based recording artist Kahiem Rivera is back with a hypnotizing new video for hit single, “Smokin’ Weed with the Devil” featuring Jafé Paulino (Jafé and the Royals). On the genre-bending track, Rivera’s butter-smooth flow effortless melts between the instrumental background of Doxa and harmony of MOTHERMARY.
Fortunately, for my religious folks, the devil in this tale is simply a metaphor for the unnatural grip of love. Feel free to enjoy the track and video free of guilt!
I had a chance to catch up with Rivera to discuss the track as well as collaborating with fellow New Yorker Jafé to which be responded, “I’ve been friends with Jafé for over 10 years now and have always wanted to make a song with him. I heard this Doxa beat and immediately knew he needed to be on it. We wrote the song over a text thread in the span of 25 minutes. We were so in sync that we sent each other our verses within 30 seconds of each other. Everything just fell into place. Jafé and I both try to make music that bumps and gives you this visceral response, but also rewards repeated listens because we’re actually saying some real shit. It’s a sexy song, but it’s also an introspective one.”
Later adding, “for me, the song is about fleeting passions, and how people use their vices. It’s definitely a dancehall bop and is supposed to make your move, but it’s also a cautionary tale. The devil is no longer trying to make you do evil shit. We’re already good at that. He’s trying to get you stoned and pacify you, to make you numb. We’re not gonna let that happen.”
Watch the full visual directed by Alice Plati above and don’t forget to tell us what you think below in the comment section.
Experience Kahiem Rivera performing live on Tuesday, July 23 at the Alphaville in Brooklyn, New York. Click HERE to grab your tickets now!
Want more of Kahiem Rivera? Be sure to connect with him across your favorite social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook or visit his official website at www.kahiemrivera.com.
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