As part of the new EP from The Undefeated, entitled Black History Always / Music for the Movement Vol. 2, Freddie Gibbs has released a cover of the Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson track “Winter in America”.
The track was originally released in 1974, and Gibbs switches up his musical approach as he trades in his usual rap style for a more melodic, singing approach. The project is also set to feature other artists, including Brent Faiyaz, Tinashe, and Tobe Nwigwe.
Gibbs recently received a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album for his 2020 collab album with The Alchemist, Alfredo. Last month, the Gary, Indiana, rapper released a one-off single, Gang Signs with Top Dawg Entertainment rapper Schoolboy Q.
A Gil Scott-Heron cover feels fitting for Freddie Gibbs, especially with his vocality in the movement to reach racial equality worldwide. An active voice himself in the movement back in the 60s and 70s, Scott-Heron’s poetry and music have always been an inspiration for the fight against racial injustice. Before his passing in 2011, Gil Scott-Heron teamed up with Jamie xx for a remixed version of Scott-Heron’s album I’m New Here for its 10-year anniversary.
Listen to Freddie Gibbs’ cover of “Winter in America” below.
