The road to Conway The Machine’s major label Shady/Interscope Records debut, God Don’t Make Mistakes, was undeniably impactful and incredibly redemptive. Universally hailed by critics and fans alike, the album was also his commercial breakthrough, as God Don’t Make Mistakes rose to the top of DSP charts and was also his highest-charting Billboard project to date.
While God Don’t Make Mistakes was Conway’s de-facto origin story, it will also serve as the bridge to the next phase of his already decorated career; which begins with his next album Won’t He Do It.
Now, fans won’t have to wait much longer as Conway has announced that Won’t He Do It will be released on 5-5-23. In addition to releasing a new single, “The Chosen,” which features his emerging Drumwork Music Group artist Jae Skeese, he also released the album’s track-listing. Won’t He Do It is now available for pre-order at all DSP’s.
In addition to the release of Won’t He Do It’s second single. Conway also announced the Won’t He Do It Spring Tour featuring Sauce Walka and Jae Skeese, which will touch down in 18 cities starting on 5-26 in Chicago. You can visit Conway’s digital HQ for all corresponding tour dates.
Conway The Machine’s new solo album, Won’t He Do It, will be released on 5-5-23 via Drumwork Music Group/EMPIRE.
Conway pulled up on DJ Akademiks and his Off the Record podcast and revealed why he thinks the situation is bad for him personally.
“That nigga Gibbs, my nigga, man. I wish that shit never happened,” Conway explained. “I would love to squash that. I wish I could have. If I was there, I don’t know if that would’ve happened. I’m talking about none of it, not just the shit that they talking about.”
The Machine added, “And Benny, my cousin, I’m riding with Benny regardless of whatever happens. But if it was up to me, none of that shit would’ve never happened.”
On the music end, Conway The Machine’s Drumwork Records Spring takeover continues with Pain Provided Profit, his collaborative project with Jae Skeese, which is now available. This comes after the conclusion of his most recent sold-out Reject Mania European tour and the announcement of his own upcoming solo album, Won’t He Do It.
Jae Skeese, the first artist to sign with Conway The Machine’s Drumwork Music Group brand, contributed vocals to the first single from La Maquina, “Blood Roses,” and two tracks on the deluxe edition of From King To A GOD by Conway The Machine. In addition to performing on God Don’t Make Mistakes, Conway’s debut album on Shady Records, Skeese continued to rise by helping the album’s release by collaborating with Conway on two separate freestyles that were featured on Bootleg Kev and LA Leakers.
You can hear the new release below and let us know if you feeling Jae Skeese.
The feud between Freddie Gibbs and Benny The Butcher was a sad sight to see. The two lyrical giants became tight comrades who collaborated on records like “Frank Lucas” and “One Way Flight” but things went left after Gibbs dished out a series of shady tweets. Benny and Westside Gunn have publicly expressed their issues with Gibbs in the past but Conway’s remained neutral throughout the drama. During a recent interview with Akademiks on the Off The Record podcast, he explained why he didn’t necessarily intervene.
As you could expect, Conway, more than any other member of Griselda, was in a weird position during the feud. “That n***a Gibbs my n***a, man. I wish that shit never happened,” he explained. “I would love to squash that. I wish I could have. If I was there, I don’t know if that would’ve happened. I’m talking about none of it – not just the shit that they talkin’ about. I’m talking about all the way – the shit that [happened] before.” Besides the largely viral clip of Freddie Gibbs getting jumped in Buffalo, Conway said that he wishes he could’ve intervened before things escalated. Still, he felt like Freddie Gibbs was in the wrong.
Conway On Freddie Vs. Benny
We’re all aware of how Freddie Gibbs moves on the Internet. It’s a trait that resulted in many feuds, including the ongoing saga with Akademiks. Still, Conway understands how Gibbs moves online, which he admits opened the doors for the issues between Griselda and the Gary, IN rapper. “Gibbs, I just know how he do, man. He’s a funny dude on that internet shit and on Twitter and stuff, man. He was wrong, I’ve spoke with people,” he continued. “Like, Gibbs my n***a regardless.”
He continued, “And Benny my cousin, I’m riding with Benny regardless of whatever happens. But if it was up to me, none of that shit would’ve never happened. None of it.” Unfortunately, the issues between Benny and Freddie aren’t something that will be resolved in the near future. In January, Freddie told XXL that he isn’t interested in ending their issues. “ I don’t care enough to solve a beef with a rapper. I don’t care enough,” he explained. “So, I don’t care to squash no beef with nobody. You could hate me forever, and that’s fine with me because you insignificant.” Check Conway’s interview above.
Conway The Machine has created well over a thousand songs throughout his career. An American rapper based out of Buffalo, New York, he’s a member of the famous Griselda crew. The group has spearheaded the revival of the East Coast underground scene alongside the likes of Westside Gunn and Benny the Butcher. Spending time in jail at the age of 23, Conway used the experience as motivation to spur his rap career. He has utilized collaborations throughout his career, working with rappers that capitalize a sound rooted in the streets of New York.
There’s no doubt that New York no longer runs the American hip-hop scene. With the bling era coming to a close, much of the allure of the Big Apple’s sound died with it. However, there are still pockets of rappers who provide a modern take on the ’90s era of New York hip-hop. One of these pockets was founded in 2014, when Westside Gunn created Griselda Records. Thirty-two-years-old at the time, Conway was the first rapper that Westside Gunn would bring on.
Griselda Records’ lyrical heavyweight released God Don’t Make Mistakes, in March of 2022. Conway was as vulnerable as ever on the record, picturing his trying childhood. He references the deaths of his son and cousin, personal bouts with alcoholism, and being abused at 10 months old. In fact, Conway The Machine has long been one of the more lyrically compelling rappers out. In an interview with Billboard, he stated, “I’m usually more bottled up and keep my personal stuff and shortcomings in life to myself personally, but this was the album for me to (not) do that.” With fans soon anticipating a new record, we’re going to take a look at some of Conway The Machine’s best collaborations on songs to date.
“Chanel Pearls” ft. Jill Scott (2022)
Predominately known for collaborating with other rappers, “Chanel Pearls” saw Conway push his boundaries by working with an iconic female vocalist. Scott made her name in the late ’90s to early ’00s, curating groovy soul cuts such as “Golden” and “A Long Walk.” She was best-known for creating slow and sensual music in the R&B space, releasing multiple multi-platinum projects.
However, the track sees Scott detour from her usual style. Rather than utilizing her booming vocals, she meets Conway’s energy with an energetic rap verse. The two rap about their shared hardships growing up. Conway states, “My life a series of drama just like them HBO shows / When I die, I’m goin’ out like the pharoah, drape me in gold.”
The most commercially successful track off of God Don’t Make Mistakes, the Griselda heavy hitters came together for yet another iconic song. “John Woo Flick” pays direct homage to the legendary Hong Kong action movie director. Featuring a looping sample and an incumbered drum pattern, the lyricism of the trio takes the forefront. The three flex about their wealth on the song, reflecting on how far they’ve each come. Conway states, “Now I’m in the Mayback sippin’ a Spade mimosa.” Standing on top of New York, it’s an iconic rags to riches anthem.
With Conway branching out with Drumwork Music Group, he had recently left Griselda Records. “John Woo Flick” shut down reports that his relationship with Westside Gunn was strained. While the two are no longer under the same label, they’ve made it clear that they’re still brothers for life.
Conway The Machine’s most commercially successful song to date, J.I.D and Ludacris each contribute fantastic verses on the backend. The day before the track released, the world witness Ludacris flying a car into space in the exhilarating Fast & Furious 9 trailer. A day later, he’s flexing hard on Conway’s track. There wasn’t anyone more deserving of the blockbuster feature than Conway, who’s meticulously been developing as an MC through pure grit over the past decade. Featuring an eerie beat, all three of them are talking their s**t from start to finish. “Scatter Brain” was the last single released before 2021’s La Maquina. The song is about to surpass 50 million streams on Spotify alone.
“200 Pies” ft. 2 Chainz (2021)
Another song off of Conway The Machine’s La Maquina, “200 Pies,” features Atlanta Hall of Famer 2 Chainz. A relatively mellow beat produced by The Alchemist, it’s interesting to hear 2 Chainz over a more minimally produced beat. In fact, it’s probably the best version of him we had heard in a while. The two trade bars throughout, with Chainz stating, “I’m a money-getter, business leader, vibe-reader.” His ability to garner features from household names speaks volumes to his notoriety with hip-hop circles.
Conway references Drumwork Music Group, a record label which he founded himself. He states, “Build the next powerhouse record label, that was the next plan / Drumwork like Death Row in the 90s mixed with Def Jam.” With 2 Chainz being a multi-business tycoon, Conway makes it clear that he’s looking to follow in his footsteps by being more than just a rapper.
Conway The Machine’s “Lemon” features iconic Wu-Tang legend Method Man. The song displays venom and raw skill from start to finish, with production chops from Daringer and Beat Butcha. With Pray For Paris and The Price of Tea in China elevating Griselda to pristine relevance in mid-2020, Conway The Machine lived up to the pressure on the song “Lemon,” refusing to be a weak link of any sorts. Method Man is potent throughout, stating, “I use the system / you cowards use euphemisms / Women call me Super Daddy, my powers is supervision / Who gave you permission to speak?”
“Anza” ft. Armani Caesar (2020)
Featuring production chops from Murda Beatz, “Anza” sees Conway and Armani floating over a heavy 808. More traditionally rooted in trap compared to Conway’s usual sound, the two Griselda Records headliners flow seamlessly over the beat. “Anza” is a primary example of Conway looking to elevate his sound beyond the touted sample looping associated with the New York rap scene. The result is surprisingly great, with Armani delivering one of her better verses.
Throughout much of God Don’t Make Mistakes, Conway The Machine references his life-altering shooting as a catalyst rather than a deterrent for his rap career. Back in 2012, he was shot in the back of the head and neck, which paralyzed the right half of his face. As he references throughout the project, there was a significant social fallout after the incident. His supposed close friends were quick to turn, doubting that Conway would ever be able to become relevant as an MC.
“Tear Gas” sees Conway reflect on his legacy as a rapper. He states, “Probably won’t get my flowers while I can smell ’em / It’s gon take my untimely demise ‘fore they realize I was a legend.” However, he makes it clear that his career is only just getting started. Bringing in Rick Ross and Lil Wayne in itself is a statement of how far he’s come since the incident. Every verse is fantastic, as the three bounce off each other seamlessly.
The road to Conway The Machine’s major label Shady/Interscope Records debut, God Don’t Make Mistakes, was undeniably impactful and incredibly redemptive. Universally hailed by critics and fans alike, the album was also his commercial breakthrough, as God Don’t Make Mistakes rose to the top of DSP charts and was also his highest-charting Billboard project to date.
While God Don’t Make Mistakes was Conway’s de-facto origin story, it will also serve as the bridge to the next phase of his already decorated career; which begins with his next album Won’t He Do It.
After sharing the album’s first single, “Super Bowl,” which featured Sauce Walka and Juicy J, Conway The Machine releases Won’t He Do It’s second single and first visual “Quarters/Brucifix” featuring Westside Gunn. Filmed on location in Paris, the dual single features production from Khrysis on “Quarters,” (which also includes a vocal clip from the late Combat Jack—RIP) along with the Westside Gunn assisted, and Daringer produced “Brucifix.”
In addition to the release of Won’t He Do It’s second single. Conway also announced the Won’t He Do It Spring Tour featuring Sauce Walka and his fellow Drumwork artist Jae Skeese, which will touch down in 18 cities starting on 5-26 in Chicago. You can visit Conway’s digital HQ for all corresponding tour dates.
“I wanted to tap back in with my bro, Khrysis, and give em that feel that my fans know me for providing” Conway commented to Complex. I also wanted to set the tone for my new album.”
Conway The Machine’s new solo album, Won’t He Do It, will be released this spring.
“Quarters”is now available at all DSP’s via Drumwork Music Group/EMPIRE
Ahead of a host of new albums dropping soon, whether it’s his solo effort Won’t He Do It or his collaborative project with 38 Spesh, Conway The Machine is letting fans know early that he’s bound to meet his high quality standards. Moreover, he just released the single “Quarters,” which actually takes a slightly different approach to his usual production. The Khrysis-produced beat involves some trademarks: engaging and crisp boom-bap drums, ghostly tones, occasional chimes, and a funky lead melody. However, the buzzy staccato bass hits actually give this track a pretty unorthodox sonic pallet for Conway’s typical fare.
Lyrically, the amicably departed Griselda alum delivers a quick but impressive verse. His coke rap subject matter (however common, tried, or true) is still brought to life by lines like “Water-whipped the ounces, it’s residue in that coffee pot.” Of course, staying in that lane for the whole verse doesn’t leave much room for dynamics or a change in pace. Instead, where this track succeeds is in keeping you engaged in his layered, multi-syllabic, and expertly flowed rhymes from beginning to end. As a surprise, the track’s music video also includes the non-streaming track “Brucifix” with Westside Gunn.
Conway The Machine’s “Quarters”
Switching to Conway The Machine’s next moves, he just released a short collab tape with Drumwork signee Jae Skeese. Furthermore, as far as his upcoming team-up with 38 Spesh, it should make for a concise and gripping encounter. “Me and Conway got an album,” Spesh revealed to Bootleg Kev. “The people gotta get ready for that. It’s done, I’m gonna follow up after Gunsmoke [his recently released album] with that. The name of that album is called Special Machinery. Something serious, Special Machinery, we on there getting busy and shit, you know what I’m saying. I produced the whole joint, me and my guy Jimmy Dukes. He’s a producer from out of Buffalo, we produced the whole joint.” On that promising note, check out standout bars from “Quarters” below. Also, you can find the track on your preferred streaming service, and as always, return to HNHH for the latest on Conway The Machine.
Quotable Lyrics B***hes be sayin’, “Oh, you definitely changed, Callin’ me b***h in every message, you don’t text me the same, n***a” (Hahaha) Machine, b***h, I’m a threat in the game Tape that I did with Alchemist, I was just testin’ my aim, n***a (I’m on y’all a**)
