Stephen Returns With A Moving Conclusion To His “Crossfire” Song Series

Having previously collaborated with the likes of Talib Kweli and KillaGraham, Virginia-born artist Stephen called on Saba, Ravyn Lenae, the O'My's, and J.P. Floyd for the emphatic conclusion to his "Crossfire" series.

The final track in the series is a departure from the electrifying, energizing sound of Part II, into a more stripped-down and acoustic version of the original. Collectively, the tracks provide a roadmap: they explore the walls we build against one another and how such borders lead to stark, divisive violence. "Crossfire, Part III" is especially relevant given our current political landscape, and one that pays equal respect to artists working to improve the world through creative means.

According to Stephen, 15 percent of all earnings from this record are going to Young Chicago Authors, a creative after school program serving 10,000 youths per year.

"The process of creating Part III was very new for me," Stephen told The FADER over email. "In the past I’ve almost always done everything from producing to writing to mixing, but this time I let some other incredible artists take the wheel. I gained a lot of respect for the Chicago creative community, and a blossoming desire for more collaboration. It feels great to give back to an organization like Young Chicago Authors — a platform for young poets and hip-hop artists."

You can listen to Parts I and II of "Crossfire" here.