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FYI

Grand Analog: Mutations ft. Posdnuos

The distinctive rhyming flow of an American rap pioneer perfectly suits this new cut from a veteran Canadian crew. The results caress the ear and reaffirm the pleasures of conscious hip-hop.

Grand Analog: Mutations ft. Posdnuos

By Kerry Doole

Grand Analog - "Mutations (ft. Posdnuos)" (Grand Analog Music): Lovers of conscious hip-hop will take to this new cut like ducks to water. It features an authentic originator of the form, Posdnuos of De La Soul, collaborating with veteran Canadian collective Grand Analog.


The result is a real treat, with Pos' distinctive rhyming flow-joining that of GA's Odario Williams on a tune that caresses rather than assaults the ears. "Mutations" reflects upon a world that "keeps turning, burning, going through changes," but the vibe here is relaxed, not turbulent.

The prevailing mood is enhanced by a low-key but effective video (directed by Williams) depicting a day in the life of a 14-year-old boy. Torontonians will enjoy recognising landmarks in the Parkdale and Kensington Market locales.

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"Mutations" is featured on Grand Analog's new EP, Survival, coming out on Jan. 26. Other formidable guests on the release will include Shad, A Tribe Called Red producer 2oolman, Clairmont The Second, Mad Professor, and Adaline. Expect another refreshing cocktail of funk, soul, dub, hip-hop and jazz.

Upcoming shows have been set for Toronto's Drake Underground on Feb. 23 and Montreal's Le Divan Orange on Feb. 24, to be followed by showcases at SXSW in Austin in March.

The group is co-managed by Graham Stairs and Noah Finkelstein, with Cristina Fernandes handling press.

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EMPIRE's Tina Davis (left) and Girl Connected's Lola Plaku at Conversations with the Pros at Toronto Metropolitan University in Toronto on March 28, 2025.
Courtesy of Girl Connected

EMPIRE's Tina Davis (left) and Girl Connected's Lola Plaku at Conversations with the Pros at Toronto Metropolitan University in Toronto on March 28, 2025.

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EMPIRE President Tina Davis Gives Strategic Advice to Women in Music at Girl Connected's New Speaker Series

On Friday (March 28), the president of EMPIRE, the Bay Area-independent label and music company, came to Toronto for Conversation with the Pros offering tangible advice to the mentorship program's community. Davis also spoke to Billboard Canada about her impressive journey in the industry.

Girl Connected has launched a new series that connects the next generation of women in Canadian music with powerhouse executives for the global industry.

On Friday (March 28), Tina Davis, president of EMPIRE, sat down with Girl Connected founder and music industry veteran Lola Plaku at Toronto Metropolitan University for the first in-person Canadian edition of Conversations with the Pros (Billboard Canada was a supporting partner). The series brings in inspiring music industry figures from Girl Connected's international network to talk about their journeys and offer actionable information and advice to help the budding music professionals develop their skills and reach the next level of their careers.

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