There is something refreshingly honest about the way Gbaloks makes music. Instead of chasing trends or trying to fit into a single category, the independent artist known as Ugly and Black follows instinct, emotion and lived experience. That approach is front and center on his new album, Power and Fame, which was officially released on 20th May 2026 and features nine tracks that fuse the intensity of rap with the energy of rock.
For Gbaloks, songwriting begins with whatever is happening in his life at that moment. Dreams, travel, daily experiences and shifting emotions all find their way into his lyrics, creating songs that feel personal without losing their universal appeal. Whether he is writing from a place of joy or working through frustration, his goal remains the same: to make music that reflects who he is while still giving listeners something they can connect with.
That balance between artistic freedom and audience appreciation is an important part of his philosophy. Gbaloks openly acknowledges the people who support his career, believing their loyalty is a major reason he is able to keep creating and growing as an artist.
The story behind Power and Fame is almost as interesting as the music itself. The album came together in just two months during an intense creative period where ideas arrived one after another. Several additional songs were planned for the project, but production setbacks meant they had to be shelved before completion. Rather than viewing them as lost work, Gbaloks hopes they will eventually surface on a future release.
Bringing the record to life also required patience. Producer Music Monster was juggling multiple commitments at the time, which caused delays and occasionally led to disagreements over the pace of production. Even so, Gbaloks has nothing but respect for his collaborator, describing him as an exceptionally talented producer with a rare ability to understand artists and transform their ideas into reality.
He also credits featured performers Meso Peters and Mima for helping strengthen the album, praising both artists for their dedication, professionalism and willingness to work together throughout the recording process.
One of the album’s greatest strengths lies in its willingness to blur musical boundaries. Instead of staying within a predictable formula, Gbaloks confidently mixes gritty rap performances with rock influences to create a sound that feels distinctive and full of personality. The result is a project that carries emotional weight while maintaining the energy and momentum needed to keep listeners engaged from start to finish. Every track contributes to a larger narrative, making Power and Fame feel like a carefully considered statement rather than simply a collection of songs.
Away from this latest release, Gbaloks has spent years steadily building his career. A songwriter, rapper and singer with more than six years of experience, he first started creating music while still in high school and has continued refining his craft ever since. Alongside his work as a college graduate and professional realtor, he regularly performs at shows and bars, using every opportunity to connect with audiences and expand his reach.
His first official project, the EP Mathematical Fact, introduced listeners to his creative vision. Now, with Power and Fame, he takes another significant step forward, showcasing greater confidence, broader musical ambition and a clear sense of purpose.
As an independent artist carving out his own path, Gbaloks continues to prove that originality and authenticity remain some of the strongest qualities an artist can possess. Power and Fame is more than a new album. It is a reflection of persistence, creativity and an artist who is unafraid to let his audience see the person behind the music.
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