Molombo is a Congolese-American artist currently based in Colorado. His music is genre-blending and combines Congolese storytelling along with Western production. Positivity and spiritual upliftment with a sense of community at its centre are lyrical themes he is often seen exploring. He has been releasing music since 2020 and his latest release “Starstruck” is an impressive addition to his extensive discography!
“Starstruck” is impossible to place within one single genre as Molombo brings together elements from a vast array of musical cultures. The track starts off with echoed out electric guitars with a twang that persist throughout the track. While the percussion and string instrumentation have a touch of rhythmic soft-EDM to them, the rap sections flow with the pulse of latest hip-hop. The back-up vocals are angelic and full of soul bringing most of the indigenous aspects of the track to light. The bass keeps the track alive even when the song strays from conventional song structure.
The hook of the track describes all the emotions, including the loss of sanity one goes through when starstruck. The rap sections deviate from this lyrical theme to speak to one’s path towards success that can be filled with hatred. The persistence to stick to the path against all odds with a single minded-focus is emphasised. The lines “nothing was given, so we take what we need and never forgive em” stayed with me for it spoke to the pride of being against a system that deceives you.
If you are looking for ethereal hip-hop with affirming songwriting, make sure to check out “Starstruck” by Molombo here: