Capitalizing on his recent buzz, the budding Maryland rapper reflects on his journey.
The name Tyler Fontaine is beginning to grow familiar amongst experimental rap enthusiasts, as he received a notable cosign from Internet Money CEO Taz Taylor just four days ago. With a new audience questioning who he is, Tyler gives them assurance with his latest single, “DIOMO Freestyle (Did It On My Own).” And, with his own extensive discography, he is certainly not exaggerating his work ethic. This track is, in fact, the third in a collection of dynamic singles that follow his most recent album release, Do Not Disturb 2, in which he ventures into a multitude of sonic lanes.
When it comes to fearlessly experimenting with intonation, Fontaine is overqualified. Equipped with an enticing instrumental from Yung Germ, he comfortably contemplates his come-up, where he’s at now, and where he’s going. Using lines like, “Hellcat with the engine bitch it’s shining like a demon,” he seizes all opportunities for uncharted delivery. On some occasions, The Maryland rapper’s cadence even draws reminiscence to beloved melodics, whether they be the peculiarly perfect inflections of Young Thug’s “Harambe voice” or the high-pitched harmonics of stars like Playboi Carti or Lil Uzi Vert.
Nonetheless, Fontaine uses this familiar territory to propel himself forward, developing his own style without boundaries in the process. With the anchoring effect of sparkling bells, dense synth pads, and brisk 808s, he is able to explore an array of ear-catching vocals with ease. The Mareck Damiano-directed visual also provides a vintage semblance, using appropriately blurry camera angles and grainy colored filters to match Fontaine’s energy.
“That boy don’t even got no heart, see it in his stance,” Fontaine proclaims before demonstrating why he is the polar opposite. He embraces his ability to create a groove, transitioning into a catchy and recurring chant, “Work!” Ultimately, as Fontaine continues to elevate, he gives any doubters envying his success a reminder: “Did it on my own, did it better than you could!”
Watch the visuals for “DIOMO Freestyle” below.