Freddie Gibbs Taps ScHoolboy Q For Laid-Back "Gang Signs" Collab

BY Erika Marie 11.1K Views
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Gibbs says he was inspired by two legendary rap groups when making this single.

In a short while, Freddie Gibbs will find out if his joint project with The AlchemistAlfredo, takes home the Grammy for Best Rap Album. The rapper was excited to be nominated alongside other noteworthy acts, and as this is his first nomination, his fans are hoping that he upstages all others. To further prove that he's deserving of accolades, Gibbs returned on Friday (February 5) with a new single "Gang Signs" featuring TDE's ScHoolboy Q.

The pair reflect on their respective street pasts and how those experiences influenced their rap dream successes over a production that includes breezy keys and a laid-back bassline. Both rappers are highly respected in the industry for their lyricism, and Gibbs revealed that his inspiration for the single came from two legendary rap groups that emerged in the 1990s.

“I was just trying to pay homage to Do or Die and Bone Thugs n Harmony when I made this song," said Gibbs. "That’s the era I grew up on. It was long overdue for me and Q to do a record." Stream "Gang Signs" and let us know what you think of Gibbs and Q's smooth vibe.

Quotable Lyrics

At the Grammy still strapped, ayy (Ayy)
I'm glowing 'cause a n*gga straight
I'm happier than yesterday
We 'bout to beat the homie case
Tears on his daughter's face
Just tryna help with what I make, ayy


About The Author
Since 2019, Erika Marie has worked as a journalist for HotNewHipHop, covering music, film, television, art, fashion, politics, and all things regarding entertainment. With 20 years in the industry under her belt, Erika Marie moved from a writer on the graveyard shift at HNHH to becoming a Features Editor, highlighting long-form content and interviews with some of Hip Hop’s biggest stars. She has had the pleasure of sitting down with artists and personalities like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Salt ’N Pepa, Nick Cannon, Rah Digga, Rakim, Rapsody, Ari Lennox, Jacquees, Roxanne Shante, Yo-Yo, Sean Paul, Raven Symoné, Queen Naija, Ryan Destiny, DreamDoll, DaniLeigh, Sean Kingston, Reginae Carter, Jason Lee, Kamaiyah, Rome Flynn, Zonnique, Fantasia, and Just Blaze—just to name a few. In addition to one-on-one chats with influential public figures, Erika Marie also covers content connected to the culture. She’s attended and covered the BET Awards as well as private listening parties, the Rolling Loud festival, and other events that emphasize established and rising talents. Detroit-born and Long Beach (CA)-raised, Erika Marie has eclectic music taste that often helps direct the interests she focuses on here at HNHH. She finds it necessary to report on cultural conversations with respect and honor those on the mic and the hardworking teams that help get them there. Moreover, as an advocate for women, Erika Marie pays particular attention to the impact of femcees. She sits down with rising rappers for HNHH—like Big Jade, Kali, Rubi Rose, Armani Caesar, Amy Luciani, and Omerettà—to gain their perspectives on a fast-paced industry.