A rainy morning drive to school always calls for a buoyant beat to combat the groggy atmosphere. The funky sound of “Ghetto Dope” gets the job done, a song unique to Dex’s typical aggression. Taking a closer listen to the lyrics, however, reminds you it’s the same angry Dex, “Talking bodies yeah we got those / hop out swinging choppas till yo block close.” This combination makes you ready to tackle the day – cheery but assertive, all smiles but don’t look at me wrong.

Understanding the context behind Dex Osama’s music as a Detroit rapper is crucial in appreciating his work. Heavily influenced by drugs, violence and gangs, his lyrics and sound encapsulate the struggles that accompanied his life. Dex Osama was murdered two years ago, when he was shot outside of a strip club in Detroit.  He was taken way before his time, only 22 years old at the time of his death. His family and friends compiled his work into an album titled “Long Live Dex”, released in June of 2016. Dex Osama’s early death meant he was never able to develop his potential as an artist, but his work continues to influence emerging Detroit artists today.