2018 was a big year for Lake Worth rapper $not, as he garnered hundreds of thousands of play across his songs; including the highly successful “Gosha” which currently has over 1.1 million views on YouTube. $not constantly defies expectations on what a Florida rapper should sound like, straying away from bass heavy and distorted beats. Instead he relies on his smooth, bouncy flows lay on top of the chopped vocal beats which have seemingly become a signature for him.
His latest track “Excuse Me” is no exception, and solidifies his ability to deliver time and again. Posted less than two weeks ago on SoundCloud, the track has already exceeded over two thousand plays, with tens of thousands more on different YouTube videos. The track is produced by Kevin Katana, whose dreary and hypnotic beat provides the perfect backdrop for $not’s calm and cocky lyrics and delivery. The chopped up vocal sample which serves as the primary melody is immediately catchy and provides a refreshing take on typical trap beats. However it is the lyrics themselves which take center stage on “Excuse Me”, and make it such a noteworthy track. The premise is simple: $not is talking to a man while trying to get with his girl, however what separates him from the cliché rap line is his eloquence and respect while talking. The hilarity of lines like “Aye, excuse me, I don’t mean to be rude, but is that yo’ bitch?” strike audiences through their nonchalant delivery.
“Excuse Me” ultimately works as a cohesive track in the way that the laid back production meshes with $not’s unique style. The track rightfully never takes itself too seriously, which makes for some funny moments and quotable lines. $not’s rise has already been impressive, but if he continues to make well rounded tracks like “Excuse Me” then it is only a matter of time before he begins to see mainstream success.