Reks and Styles P Deliver Hard-Hitting “Why Cry” Video
Boston emcee Reks continues to solidify his place in hip-hop with the release of his latest music video, Why Cry, featuring Styles P. The Alchemist-produced track serves as one of the standout records from Reks’ latest album, Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme (R.E.K.S.), which is available now on ShowOff and Brick Records. The new visuals, directed by Jon Wolf, bring the song’s gritty themes to life, further reinforcing the powerful message Reks delivers in his music.
With the release of this album and single, Reks continues his partnership with Statik Selektah. Then, the feature with Styles P? That’s something most emcees dream of.
Reks’ Artistic Vision Comes to Life
With Why Cry, Reks once again proves why he remains one of underground hip-hop’s most respected voices. The video captures the raw energy of the song, showcasing both Reks and Styles P in their element. From the somber yet aggressive delivery to the cinematic visual storytelling, the video aligns perfectly with the song’s themes of struggle, resistance, and perseverance.
Why Cry isn’t just a song—it’s a message to the world. Reks uses the track to highlight social and political issues, speaking to the realities of urban America. The revolutionary undertones in his lyrics call for awareness and action, and the video visually amplifies these themes.
Reks came to do more than just share some rhymes about his lifestyle. While there’s a space for that, there’s also times to speak on something real. So, his decision to go enlist a major rap figure, a lyricist like Styles P, is more than outshining him on the record. This isn’t about who’s the best rapper. It’s about getting the point across.
The Alchemist’s Signature Sound on Production
The production on Why Cry is handled by none other than The Alchemist, one of the most respected producers in hip-hop. Known for his ability to craft haunting, sample-driven beats, The Alchemist provides the perfect backdrop for Reks and Styles P to deliver their powerful verses. The beat’s dark, menacing tones complement the urgency in their lyrics, making Why Cry a standout track on the R.E.K.S. album.
Having previously worked with hip-hop heavyweights like Mobb Deep, Dilated Peoples, and Roc Marciano, The Alchemist brings his signature touch to the song. Not to mention, The Alchemist produced Jadakiss’ classic anthem, We Gonna Make It, featuring Styles P. Therefore, elevating Reks’ message and making Why Cry one of the most impactful songs on the album.
The Alchemist has produced some of the hottest songs of the past decade. With Why Cry, Al is showing he has a firm grip on the next decade, too.
Styles P’s Impactful Feature
Joining Reks on the track is Styles P, a veteran MC best known for his work as a member of The LOX. Known for his raw, streetwise lyricism and unwavering authenticity, Styles P fits seamlessly into the track’s theme. His verse adds an extra layer of intensity, reinforcing the song’s themes of resilience and survival.
Styles P has long been regarded as one of the most respected lyricists in the game, and his appearance on Why Cry only cements that status. His contribution to the track gives it additional weight, making it a collaboration that feels both natural and necessary.
Already, in 2011, Styles has been busy. He’s done records with Pharoahe Monch and Smif-N-Wessun. So, this collaboration with Reks only adds to what he’s had going on. All of this goes without mentioning his ongoing solo work and his work with The LOX.
A Dream Team of Producers on Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme
Why Cry is just one of many standout tracks on Reks’ latest project, Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme. The album dropped on March 8, 2011. It is a testament to Reks’ ability to assemble an all-star lineup of producers. In addition to The Alchemist, the album features production from legendary names like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Nottz, Statik Selektah, and Hi-Tek. This impressive roster of beatmakers ensures that the album is a sonically cohesive experience. Therefore, blending traditional boom-bap with modern underground sensibilities.
For fans of true lyricism and high-quality production, R.E.K.S. delivers on all fronts. The album showcases Reks’ sharp storytelling ability, his intricate wordplay, and his dedication to hip-hop’s core principles.
Reks’ Journey in Hip-Hop
Reks, born Corey Isiah Christie, has been a staple in the underground hip-hop scene for over a decade. Hailing from Lawrence, Massachusetts, he first made waves with his debut album, Along Came the Chosen, in 2001. Since then, he has consistently dropped critically acclaimed projects, cementing his reputation as one of the most skilled lyricists in the game.
Throughout his career, Reks has collaborated with some of the most respected names in hip-hop, from legends like KRS-One and Rakim to modern-day torchbearers like Termanology and Skyzoo. His ability to balance intricate lyricism with socially conscious themes has made him a fan favorite among those who appreciate substance in their music.
On the independent Boston and Greater Massachusetts hip-hop scene, Reks has established himself as a legend.
Lyrical Breakdown of Why Cry
Reks opens Why Cry with a thought-provoking hook that sets the tone for the song’s introspective and revolutionary themes. He raps:
“This evolution of revolution will not be televised / Hard to decide if you were right / Die, die, shed tears but why cry? It’s all gone.”
These lines immediately establish the song’s central message—questioning societal struggles, loss, and the fight for change. The imagery of revolution not being televised is a nod to the classic saying popularized by Gil Scott-Heron, emphasizing the importance of grassroots movements over mainstream narratives.
In his verse, Reks delves deeper into systemic oppression and the cycles of violence:
“Sending me to cells where hell’s real, get name killed / Body for a dollar and who we power and lust.”
Here, he highlights the harsh realities of mass incarceration and economic disparity, painting a vivid picture of the consequences of a broken system.
Styles P follows up with his own hard-hitting verse, maintaining the song’s militant energy:
“The evolution of revolution revolting / Me, I’m more alive but the 45 is colting.”
These lines reinforce the urgency of resistance, with Styles P suggesting that armed self-defense remains a necessary consideration in the face of systemic violence.
The song closes out with Reks reiterating the call for resilience:
“Shed tears but why cry, still strong.”
This final statement leaves listeners with a sense of hope and determination, despite the bleak circumstances described throughout the track.
What’s Next for Reks?
With R.E.K.S. now available and Why Cry gaining traction, Reks shows no signs of slowing down. His consistent output and dedication to his craft make him one of hip-hop’s most reliable voices. Fans can expect more music, more visuals, and possibly even a tour in support of the album.
Reks’ influence continues to grow, and with tracks like Why Cry, he’s ensuring that his message reaches as many ears as possible. His ability to merge thought-provoking content with hard-hitting beats makes him a vital figure in today’s hip-hop landscape.
