Incarcerated rapper Max B is releasing new music from behind bars with his new single “Black and I’m Proud”.
The 41-year-old Harlem native has been serving time in prison since 2009 over a murder conviction. But the Silver Surfer is set to release a new album called “Negro Spirituals” and released his first single from the project that celebrates his black excellence despite his current circumstances.
“It’s about me really evolving as a person, evolving as an artist,” Max told Rolling Stone. “My music five or six years ago — even before when I used to make music — it was good, but it lacked the experience I have today. The concept fell into my lap: I’m gonna transform from the old Max B into a powerful new artist with a display of content that they aren’t used to. I’m trying to give the people some substance.”
Max also says he’s addressing his personal issue with people who aren’t supportive of the rise of the black community.
“If I got an issue, a personal problem, sometimes I put it in my music to address it,” Max B said. “I was talking about people in general, people that’s not for what we’re trying to do, they’re trying to hold us back while we’re trying to elevate and pick our people up.”
The artist is prepared to be released from prison very soon after he had his 75-year sentence shortened to a 20-year plea bargain for aggravated manslaughter. Biggavelli was originally charged on conspiracy charges pertaining to armed robbery, kidnapping, aggravated assault and felony murder the death of David Taylor, Jr.
Max appears to be a changed man, and has dropped some new music for his fans to enjoy.
Press play below to hear the song in full.