Music has always been a means to escape, but growing up, one Portland-born artist found solace in artists such as Kanye West, Michael Jackson, Eminem, and Dr. Dre – with much of his early years in and out of homeless shelters, raised by his single mother.

And these widespread influences are very much apparent in the sonic identity of hip-hop newcomer daniyel, with his raw lyricism, experimental beats and versatile undulating flow.

“‘Madison High’ is one of the many stories I’m here to tell,” explains daniyel. “It’s like an audio journal of my thoughts and experiences while in school come to life in the studio over the last 6 months. I’m blessed to be creating on a daily basis and excited for the release of this first project!”

Listen to “Madison High” below…