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Music may only be music to some, while for others it is a vessel in which to speak to a world that would otherwise never hear them. The latter would be the case for up and coming artist G.R.I.I.M who takes listeners on a roller coaster ride from life in the streets to his love for performing spoken word all in one album, “I’m Here Now”. Raised by a single mother with an addiction; this mc uses his life as the template for his work. Born and raised in Cleveland OH, R. Ross who is better known as G.R.I.I.M grew up in an all too common situation: no father or father figure, selling drugs, and being a young parent. He recalls, “I remember coming home from school and finding my mother drunk or smoking crack with the neighbors, but had I not endured the things that I have I might not be the man I am today.” Influenced not only by the streets and his life at home but all forms of music as well, he brings his own element to the hip hop genre. During his years involved with music he helped create the group Black Souljas consisting of himself, Delo and Danga, and their independent label S.I. Squad Entertainment. Recording over eighty songs together and performing at various venues including John Carroll University, The Cleveland Music Festival and a host of others. As a solo artist he released the Money Love & Loyalty EP in July 2005. “I pride myself on the ability to not only do music for the streets,” says G.R.I.I.M, “But music that fans of performers like The Roots can appreciate.” With production by Delo of Pound Da Streets, Unkle w ithers of HoodHouse ent., plus his own, I Told Yall is packed with a variety of flavors that mix well together. For instance “In The Way,” where he demonstrates a gift for metaphors and catchy lines i.e. “These rappers act Hollywood glitz and glamor you want applause in the streets they clap with clips and hammers”. For those who aren’t into punch lines but prefer songs with deeper meaning then “Way 2 Go” is a must listen. If words actually paint pictures then he paints his pain in very vivid colors. Rather its club, street, conscious, or party music there is something there for everyone. “I want my albums to be entertaining for all those who love hip hop”. –G.R.I.I.M