Hip-hop has always been about storytelling, and few do it as authentically as Chicago’s own J Menace. With his latest project, Still Dreaming, he solidifies his place as a force in the game, delivering a raw and deeply personal collection of tracks. Known for his gritty lyricism, introspective storytelling, and ability to blend street wisdom with emotional depth, Menace takes listeners on a journey through his struggles, victories, and unwavering ambition.
More than just an album, Still Dreaming serves as a memoir, an unfiltered look into his experiences. “I only speak to what I’ve been through and/or going through,” he explains. “All my music is just different shades and experiences of my personal life.”
Adding to his momentum, J Menace has been recognized for his electrifying stage presence, winning Best Live Performer at the 312 Music Awards 2025. His ability to captivate an audience, deliver high-energy performances, and bring raw emotion to the stage proves why he’s one of Chicago’s most exciting acts.
The Role of Music in J Menace’s Life
For J Menace, music is more than entertainment—it’s expression, therapy, and a reflection of life itself. While he believes hip-hop has lost some of its original intent, his goal remains clear: “The role, in my opinion, is to express your own artistic view in this thing we call life.”
Balancing artistic integrity with commercial appeal is no easy task, but he finds a way to stay relevant while keeping his music deeply personal. “Everything from beat selection to cadence—I stay in tune with what’s current. But my subject matter is always personal to me. So I’m always current but authentic.”
Above all, Menace wants to remind the world: “Rap ain’t dead. Art ain’t dead. Authenticity is real. You can be you and still be dope.”
Track-by-Track Highlights: The Sound of Still Dreaming
- Outside Again – A powerful opener with assertive bars and menacing production. Menace makes it clear that he’s here to stay.
- Drum – A hard-hitting, bass-heavy track that cements his street-certified status.
- Now That We Up – A triumphant anthem celebrating resilience and success.
- Switches – One of the grittiest tracks, filled with aggressive energy and commanding lyricism.
- My Momma Loves Me – A deeply personal track that reflects on family, love, and sacrifice.
- Stand On It – A bold anthem about loyalty and integrity with a heavy-hitting beat.
- Safe – A moody, introspective track exploring vulnerability and survival.
- What’s To It – A laid-back, confident banger with smooth flows and clever wordplay.
- Shine ft. Easy O’Hare – A melodic, radio-ready track with replay value.
- Told Em – A high-energy, boastful track with an aggressive flow.
- Warrior ft. Troche – A raw, defiant anthem with intense performances.
- Englewood ft. Aboog Carter – A soulful tribute to J Menace’s roots.
- Until We Meet Again – An emotional, reflective closer dedicated to lost loved ones.
- Bonus Track – A surprise closer that ends the project with energy and creativity.
The Creative Process & Emotional Depth
J Menace’s creative process is unconventional yet deeply personal. “I don’t write my music per se. I freestyle and record it on my phone,” he reveals. “I don’t write it down until I’m ready to record. I lock in on a beat or topic and go until I feel I’m done.”
One of the most emotionally charged tracks, Until We Meet Again, serves as a therapeutic outlet for his grief. “It’s a letter to the people closest to me that have passed. I felt like that helped/helps me through my grieving process.”
How J Menace Defines Success
For Menace, success isn’t just about fame or streaming numbers—it’s about impact. “Do people appreciate your work? Do you make money? Are you satisfied with your work? Do you work on your craft?” he asks. By those standards, Still Dreaming is already a win.
Unlike many artists, he welcomes criticism. “I welcome criticism more than praise because it helps me be better,” he says. “Just because it’s personal doesn’t mean it’s good or your best. At the end of the day, the consumer matters as well.”
Final Verdict: Still Dreaming is a Must-Listen
Still Dreaming is J Menace’s most well-rounded and authentic project to date. It captures both the raw realities of street life and the emotional complexities of personal growth. The collaborations with Easy O’Hare, Troche, and Aboog Carter add variety, while Menace’s solo tracks showcase his sharp lyricism and commanding presence.
The production is polished and dynamic, perfectly complementing Menace’s storytelling. Whether delivering aggressive street anthems or introspective reflections, Still Dreaming proves that real hip-hop is alive and thriving.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Best Tracks: My Momma Loves Me, Shine ft. Easy O’Hare, Englewood ft. Aboog Carter
For Fans Of: Benny The Butcher, G Herbo, Nipsey Hussle
Stream Still Dreaming Now
Experience the grind, the growth, and the glory of Still Dreaming by J Menace.
312 Music Awards 2025 – Best Live Performer Winner
Linktree Loud Money Music Group Megastar Media Group
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