Toronto rapper ShaqIsDope is back with “Cold As Ice,” his first release since a self-titled EP in late 2017. The song is introspective and, as per the title, cold and unmoved by those who have tried to bring ShaqIsDope down. In other words, he’s past it and is moving on to bigger and better things, but is still staying true to his roots; the song features a melodic, Drake-inflected chorus that belies his upbringing in Toronto’s St James town. In the past, ShaqIsDope has released songs with big names, including Shaquille O’Neal (from whom he got his name), and has performed alongside Earl Sweatshirt, Pusha T and Ice Cube. Now his focus seems to be turning away from one-off big name piggybacking to lyrical solo success.
The up-and-comer released the song early this morning along with another single titled “Promise” and, judging by this June 12th tweet, there is likely more to come, maybe even an album: “ShaqIsDope season is approaching.”
Quotable Lyrics
I’m tryin to change and get it together
But it’s so hard when pain lasts forever
Designer depression shit, tears on Margiela
Spendin obsession, it deals with it better