Carlito, a rising star in the rap scene from Chicago, has captivated audiences with his authentic storytelling and powerful lyrics. Drawing from his personal experiences and the environment around him, Carlito has a mission to connect with his listeners and inspire positive change through his music. His latest release, “Street Gospel,” is no exception—an intense, emotionally charged track that delves into his upbringing and the harsh realities of life on the Southside of Chicago. Featuring the Billboard-recognized artist Spenzo and produced by Illinois Red Beatz, the song has already created a buzz in the industry.
Carlito’s love for music began at an early age, inspired by his father, who introduced him to iconic artists such as Outkast, Jay Z, and Nas. These artists’ candid storytelling and powerful messages resonated with him, igniting a passion for rap. By the 8th grade, Carlito was already rapping, and by high school, he had set his sights on making music a career—a tool to not only express himself but also connect with and uplift his community. Since then, he has gained significant recognition, receiving cosigns from legendary rappers like Fat Joe and performing alongside respected names such as Big K.R.I.T. and Twista.
“Street Gospel” is deeply personal for Carlito. The song explores the challenges he faced growing up in Chicago, a city often plagued by violence and hardship. Reflecting on his life experiences, he describes the track as a testament to the idea that “Only Jesus Can Save Me,” emphasizing the need for faith and resilience amidst adversity. The song paints a vivid picture of the struggles he faced, the betrayal he encountered, and the personal growth that emerged from these hardships.
The collaboration with Spenzo brings an additional layer to the track, as Spenzo shares his own raw perspective. Together, they create a dynamic narrative that resonates with listeners who have faced similar challenges.
One of the most impactful moments in “Street Gospel” is the line:
“In a land so shady, it’s called the shadow of death, where else would you raise me.”
This verse encapsulates the intensity of growing up in an environment where danger feels omnipresent. Carlito’s lyrics convey not just a story but also an emotion—one that many in Chicago and other cities across America can relate to. It’s a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the power of faith.
The song’s production, crafted by Illinois Red Beatz, blends soulful, gospel-inspired melodies with hard-hitting beats, creating a powerful backdrop for Carlito’s message. The recording process, according to Carlito, was intense and reflective, as he channeled his memories and emotions into every line, ensuring the authenticity of his storytelling.
Carlito was also selected to perform on the mainstage at RevoltTV’s annual event and has received much support from the network, including his video “What It Takes” which shows a cosign from rap-legend Fat Joe and even recently airing “Street Gospel” and having the video making a dynamic appearance and now rotation in RevoltTV’s video mixes!
With “Street Gospel,” Carlito solidifies his place in the rap game as an artist who remains true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of his craft. His unwavering commitment to using music as a platform for change and self-expression makes him one to watch in the industry. As he continues to release more music and expand his influence, Carlito aims to inspire and uplift others, proving that even in the toughest circumstances, hope and faith can guide the way forward.
