Recently, Young Dolph was placed in critical, but stable condition after being shot in Hollywood. As fans prayed for the rapper to make a full recovery, Dolph reassured the world by tweeting out two simple words: "IT'S DOLPH." When that revelation hit, fans became curious whether or not Dolph would use his musical platform to address his recent shooting, as he had done in the past with his Bulletproof mixtape. Their questions were somewhat answered once Dolph announced his upcoming album Thinking Out Loud, slated for release on Friday, October 20th. And while the music was probably recorded prior to Dolph's latest shooting, there's no doubt that he will pick up where the acclaimed Bulletproof left off.
Now, Dolph has shared the album's closing track, the reflective "While U Here." Over a hard hitting, synth driven beat, Dolph thinks back on his come-up, and cites the importance of familial love. "Tell your mama you love her while she here," he raps. "Tell your pops that you love him while he here. Tell your homeboy you love him while he here. One day you here the next you gone, for real." Even if the track was recorded prior to Dolph's harrowing experience, it takes on a new level of significance in light of it.
It's a powerful song from Dolph, and it makes you wonder about his next course of action. This isn't the first time Dolph has been shot, and while his first shooting of the year left him unscathed, the follow-up was far deadlier. While the incident may very well lead to some interesting new music from Dolph, there comes a time when a man has to prioritize his own mortality, and one hopes that the rapper can find peace in his life. It would be a shame to lose another talented artist, especially one as real as Dolph.
Quotable Lyrics
My best friend mama gettin' sicker by the day
Cancer took over her body, got her all in pain
My homie goin' through it I see it all in his face
Now everybody bow your head, it's time to pray
