Published: September 23, 2024
MONROVIA — For centuries, society has told men not to show vulnerability, suppressing their natural emotional responses. The phrase “Don’t cry, you’re a man” is often used to deny boys their right to express their feelings, hardening them and robbing them of empathy, a gift bestowed by the Creator. This man-made concept of strength has been ingrained across cultures, ignoring the reality that emotions—love, fear, anger, sorrow, joy—are an intrinsic part of the human experience. It’s not the emotion itself that defines us, but how we respond to it. When we cry from pain, do we channel that hurt into growth and inspiration, or allow it to fuel revenge? When fear grips us, do we rise to the challenge, or crumble and be labeled as cowards instead of champions?
As one of the heavyweights in the Liberian hip-hop scene, Hi Def’s upcoming R&B EP, Runaway Love, might seem like a departure from his usual hard-hitting style. But the ability to weave vulnerability into powerful music is one of the most captivating qualities an artist can possess. With four deeply therapeutic songs, Hi Def is charting new territory for both himself and Liberian music. The Runaway Love EP, set to drop on October 11, presents a raw, heartfelt narrative through a fusion of lyrics and sound, transforming his personal experiences into a universal message. It explores primary and secondary emotions, teaching us that while it’s natural to face tribulations and feel deeply, we should never let our emotions blind us or destroy our lives.
The EP’s title track, Runaway Love, stands as a modern classic in the making. Insiders hint that no Liberian R&B song currently rivals its quality. The track leads the project, taking listeners on a journey through heartbreak while showcasing Hi Def’s fearless genre-bending, versatility, and musical precision. With echoes of Luther Vandross, Babyface, and R. Kelly, Runaway Love blends the timelessness of old-school love songs with contemporary sounds and experiences.
Hi Def’s evolution as an artist is akin to fine wine—improving with time, growing in depth and appreciation. He has embraced emotional intelligence, making him not just a musician, but a trailblazer determined to use his platform to create a positive change, no matter how many thorns he encounters along the way.
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