Sho Baraka is gearing up to release his third studio album Talented Xth on January 15, 2013. The upcoming project will be Sho’s first full-length album as an independent artist.
With Talented Xth, dropping alongside MLK Jr. Day, Sho’s aim is to change urban culture by inspiring and challenging listeners to “be exceptional for the benefit of others,” he says. Armed with a deeper resolve after traveling overseas and experiencing a broader scope of pain and struggle, he hopes to bring life to his community and others through music and various art forms.
Sho’s sophomore output, Lions and Liars, debuted at #15 on Billboard Hip Hop charts, #3 on Billboard Gospel charts and iTunes Hip Hop charts, and #14 overall on iTunes charts back in 2010. The groundbreaking album, which dealt with faith, manhood and popular culture, was also nominated for a Stellar Award for Best Hip Hop album. Since branching out from Reach Records, Sho joined forces with a collective of artists aptly named High Society to release the highly acclaimed mixtape Circa MMXI, and he also released Protest Package I as a member of the duo Hello Revolution. He has toured Africa and continues to perform across the U.S. while also being featured on several chart-topping albums.
“I have never met a person as creative and musically talented as Sho Baraka. I can’t wait to see what he gives us on this upcoming project. I know it will be fire!” – Tedashii (Reach Records recording artist)
“I’m excited to work with an awesome artist and lyricist that transcends this Hip Hop game and touches the world in so many positive ways. Be on the lookout for greatness!” – Jon Jon Traxx (produced for Beyonce and Karmin)
“Sho Baraka has once again proven to be on the cutting edge both musically and lyrically. Conscious and creative, he is one of the most important voices in Hip Hop.” – Chris Broussard (ESPN analyst and writer)
