Chicago artist Juice Mazelee discusses his most intimate and impactful album to date, merging honest storytelling with lyrical development while delving into themes of legacy, identity, and self-exploration, all while declaring his presence with 'Here Now N Forever.'
“Take a look inside my life, man, how the f* did I get here?”
Juice Mazelee’s sophomore project finds the Chicago rapper at a pivotal moment—reflecting on his past, facing his current reality, and striving toward an uncertain future. From reminiscing about lost loved ones to acknowledging crucial moments of reflection and redemption, Here Now N Forever serves as a personal exploration of identity, legacy, and the search for authenticity amid life's distractions. Each track chronicles his journey—from youthful struggles to valuable lessons learned as an independent artist. This album transcends mere music; it is a commitment to ongoing evolution, establishing his place in hip-hop, and creating a lasting impact.
Released in June 2024 through One Maze One God Music, Here Now N Forever (formatted in all caps) encapsulates the experience of a man who remains determined to push forward despite the burdens he bears, remaining committed to both his music and his community. Coming three years after his debut album HVNSNT ("Heavensent") introduced him as a formidable talent, Juice Mazelee’s second full-length album is raw, candid, ambitious, and expansive.
The rapper showcases his exceptional delivery and storytelling as he shares the highs and lows of his life, creating a narrative filled with loss, reflection, and personal growth, all while embracing the soulful essence of hip-hop. Collaborations feature a diverse mix of Chicago artists, including D2G, The Third, Rudy P. Magic, Vani Indu, Christopher Robbin’, Chris Greene, and others.
“I remember finishing what I thought would be my album, only for my life to change dramatically,” Mazelee shares with Atwood Magazine. “This change influenced my personal life and my art. I had to shift away from the original concepts of the album and redefine my vision. At one point, there were at least three different tracklists for this project (ask Vani Indu—she can attest). I ultimately landed on the one that resonated most with my spirit.”
“The outcome aligns closely with my initial vision,” he adds. “At the start of this record, I wanted to reinforce my legacy. I aimed to demonstrate that I possess natural talent in hip-hop and that I can compete at the highest level when necessary. Establishing my legacy was my goal, and I believe I achieved that with this album. The feedback from my supporters has genuinely surprised me.”
The album's title serves as a 'little message' directed at Mazelee's fans. “I will be Here Now and Forever. One advantage of being an independent artist is that I have ownership of my art, and I have left pieces of it for future generations,” he smiles. “Regardless of the circumstances, I’ve left my mark on this earth through my art, which will endure now and forever.”
Having been an active participant in the rap and hip-hop communities for over a decade, starting with his 2015 debut The W.A.R Oracle, Mazelee believes that Here Now N Forever is much more than just another work of art. “This project exists because all my previous albums paved the way for it,” he explains. “They allowed this album to flourish. Compared to earlier works, this time it’s a man sharing his life experiences. When I released The W.A.R Oracle, I was just 17, so I had much to learn about life. While I was wise for my age, I still had a long journey ahead.”
“I think the most noteworthy aspect is my lyrical growth and writing skills. It’s the same Juice you’ve always known—just older, improved, and wiser.”
Standout moments range from the scene-setting “HERE” and “EVEN IF” to the emotionally resonant finale “ALL DAWGS GO 2 HVN (THE CLARITY).” Soulful and intense, “A WISH N A PRAYER” serves as an introspective coming-of-age reflection on the trials of young adulthood, portraying all the lessons Mazelee has learned through experience. With sultry production from The Third, we witness a younger version of the artist navigating his independence, recognizing that he holds the power to shape his own destiny, and understanding the delicate balance between enjoyment and saving for the future—a lesson that extends beyond financial concerns.
A thug praying for some change
Was it wealth he wished for?
Tired of feeling like he's trapped
With a phone full of text drafts of help he never sought
Perhaps it’s just pride, yet he might realize
No one would help him if he fell on sharp floors
He converses with God daily, hoping for divine favor
Bearing the weight with stoicism, he sheds tears once more
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Chicago rapper Juice Mazelee shares insights about his most intimate and impactful album to date, intertwining honest storytelling with lyrical evolution, while contemplating legacy, identity, self-exploration, and the significance of being 'Here Now N Forever.'