Saint Dru is entering 2021 with excitement and some of his best songs yet, not allowing the unpredictability of 2020 to slow down the work that is being accomplished through his musical ministry. Last year saw the release of his second full-length album, Salvation, which continued to push his influence beyond his native Chicago area, sparking increased interest in the young rapper’s adept blend of hip-hop, trap, and gospel.
February 9 will see the release of the new EP titled Love Chapter 2, which includes the title track, a sequel to “Love” (from Dru’s 2018 EP Baby Steps). If the title Baby Steps referred to Dru’s steady upward climb as an artist, then Love Chapter 2 confirms the rapper’s consistency and his clarity of vision and purpose. Alongside his distinct rapping style, his compassion, and his theology convictions, Dru’s music has also always been paired with great collaborators; for “Chapter 2,” that comes in the form of Scott Simms, (who also joins Dru on this EP’s other track, “IS 41.10”). The sequel is the ruminative, spacious counterpart to the more energetic, hard-hitting original, displaying Dru’s range for bringing his distinct rhymes and rhythms to a wide array of different hip-hop and gospel styles and sounds.
Simms’ smooth tenor and emotionally resonant melodies are a perfect contrast to Dru’s lyrical flow, slowing down Dru’s veracious spitfire to let the meanings of these two powerful tracks really sink in. “IS 41.10” (which is based directly on Isaiah chapter 41, verse 10) might be Dru’s most beautiful song to date, diving into the depths of God’s love, strength, and righteousness as displayed in the titular verse. The chorus’s plea, “Don’t be discouraged,” comes through a genuinely encouraging track that highlights Dru’s dependence on and love for God’s Word, as it seeps into all his music.
This brief EP is just a small taste of what Saint Dru has planned for 2021. On March 1, the EP will be followed up by a standalone single titled “King David,” which builds upon his darker, trap-inspired earlier work. With lyrics and beats that can stand up to the work of Lecrae, KB, and Tedashii, “King David” is bound to become a fan favorite. Listeners will not be able to help themselves from chanting along with the infectious chorus: “Chasing after the heart of God like King David.”
Saint Dru’s music is released through Gospel Enjoyment Ministries. Head to https://www.gospelenjoymentministries.org/merch to purchase Saint Dru’s music and to keep up with the latest news and tour dates. Saint Dru’s albums, EPs, and singles can also be found on all streaming platforms and digital music outlets.