“Ghost of Soulja Slim” by Jay Electronica (ft. JAY-Z)
“Ghost of Soulja Slim” is more of a true collaboration between Jay Electronica and Jay-Z where Jigga actually drops a verse. And in this particular case, he of course presents himself as a true soldier from the ‘hood. And in that regard it is actually Jay-Z who compares himself to the late Soulja Slim. But he also concentrates on dropping knowledge more so than anything else. For instance, he imparts “some jewelry”, as in wisdom, to the audience that “no civilization is conquered… until it destroys itself from within”. Him taking such an approach would logically be influenced by the fact that he is indeed collaborating with Jay Electronica, who happens to be a cerebral rapper.
And to illustrate that point we find him relaying a number of Islamic and African references. His verse also has an overt religious tone, where he is compelled to thank a Higher Power for his ability to “tread through life merrily”. Meanwhile the track in its entirety has a strong Black empowerment motif. And basically, the artists are presenting themselves as individuals who exemplify such ideals within the context of the music industry.
Who is Soulja Slim?
Soulja Slim was one of the early pioneers of New Orleans rap. He came from the Magnolia (Housing) Projects where Electronica himself grew up. Soulja was eventually murdered in 2002 in front of his mother’s house at the age of 26.
Facts about “Ghost of Soulja Slim”
This is one of many collaborations between Jay-Z and an artist signed to his Roc Nation label, Jay Electronica.
The multi-talented Electronica produced and also co-wrote “The Ghost of Soulja Slim”.
The other co-writers are as follows:
- Jay-Z
- James Tapp (aka Soulja Slim)
- Larrance Dopson
- Chris Payton
- John Williams
- KLC
- Louis Farrakhan
Minister Louis Farrakhan also provided additional vocals to “Ghost of Soulja Slim”.
Release Date
“Ghost of Soulja Slim” was released by Roc Nation as part of Jay Electronica’s debut album, “A Written Testimony”, on 13 March 2020.
