Brooklyn’s Joell Ortiz started on none other than Dr. Dre’s Aftermath label and built a huge buzz in the industry. He’s worked with legends like Just Blaze among others. He then signed to Shady Records as ¼ of the super-group Slaughterhouse. He’s worked with Hip-Hop titans Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, Akon, and Big Daddy Kane.
Joell Ortiz’ previous project on Mello Music Group, Mona Lisa, was a collaborative effort with Apollo Brown (who also returns to produce two tracks on Monday) and it made quite an impact at retail upon its release; premiering at #3 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart, it also premiered at #3 on the Amazon Hip-Hop chart and held down the #1 spot on Bandcamp’s bestseller list.
Today, Joell returns with a new single, “Learn You,” which features and is produced by Big K.R.I.T. and a new album announcement, Monday, which features production from Big K.R.I.T., Nottz, Apollo Brown, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League & Heatmakerz.
“I’m back to work. Monday is the start of the week. The grind!” Joell asserted. “Working people normally dread Mondays. Not me though; I embrace them! Feels like another opportunity. Another chance. The beginning of what’s ahead. On Monday I talk about life. Old me, new me, and the guy that next Monday may introduce to you all.”
Joell dedicates the projects first single, “Learn You,” to his sons, an apology for the sacrifices they made while Joell spent time chasing his dream and being on the road.
“Working with K.R.I.T. was super dope! We basically had long conversations over the phone about life and human things for about a week or so before we even talked about music. Just Vibing. “Learn You” was basically one of those convos turned audio. We talked about how the sacrifices we make to chase dreams are heavy. His production and choice of words in that hook made me tell my sons I’m sorry for the first time in my life. Hope y’all enjoy this song as much as I do” Joell Ortiz on working with K.R.I.T. on “Learn You.”
Joell Ortiz’ Monday will be released on 8-30-19 by Mello Music Group.