If you were to ask Chicago-based rapper GAWNE in September 2023 where he pictured himself by the end of the year, chances are he would never say “dropping a song with Shaquille O’Neal.” Receiving an unexpected DM from the 7’1” NBA legend, a whirlwind of back and forth freestyle verses, and a trip to Miami later, today, the unlikely dream team shares the song and video for their mesmerizing collaboration “CHAOS,” a motivational track about grinding and succeeding, against all odds.
“CHAOS” is available now across all digital streaming platforms HERE.
Watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/NbWSunBmacM
Within days of initially connecting, GAWNE flew out to Miami with his team to conceptualize and shoot the larger than life music video, directed by COLLECTIVE FILMS. Set in a state-of-the-art mansion with a custom Rolls Royce parked out front that Shaq went on to gift GAWNE, the video is one you’ll have to see to believe via @rap (RapTV)
On collaborating with GAWNE, Shaq shares, “GAWNE is next up and we’re stepping over any and everybody to get him there. I want to see all of his dreams come true. I’m about to tell the whole world about GAWNE!”
GAWNE echoes, “Shaquille O’Neal declaring me “next up” is surreal. Shaq has already changed my life and I’m blessed to call him a friend. He’s the greatest athlete to EVER rap and the world isn’t ready for our new song… CHAOS!!!”
GAWNE is a Chicago-based rapper and songwriter known for his technical, rapid-fire delivery and poignant, cinematic storytelling. Over the years, GAWNE has accumulated over 350 million streams on his music and has collaborated with icons like Shaquille O’Neal and artists like Tech N9ne. In 2020, GAWNE co-wrote for Grammy nominated rapper D. Smoke’s “I’m Alive,” the lead single off of Paramount’s film Infinite, starring Mark Wahlberg. Additionally, GAWNE has appeared on NPR, NBC, and ABC, among other major media platforms.
In 2011, GAWNE suffered a debilitating brain injury that permanently affected his cognitive function. Consequently, he was forced to drop out of high school and recover at home. Unable to read or watch screens due to severe visual issues stemming from his injury, GAWNE channeled his pain and frustrations into writing music as his therapy. Music entered GAWNE’s life as a means of healing, but has since become his passion and fuels his ultimate goal – to become the greatest rapper he can be.
Despite doctors’ expectations and all odds, GAWNE has continued to find success as an artist. While the majority of those afflicted by similar medical conditions are unable to live normal lives, GAWNE has only been more motivated to seize and maximize every moment. With every song, GAWNE hopes to be one step closer to his ultimate goal and hopes to inspire others to persevere through their own setbacks and challenges.
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