Family Tapes - Hip Hop Sovereignty, Vol. 3 (Album)

Hip Hop Sovereignty, Vol. 3 is the highly anticipated third installment in the Hip Hop Sovereignty series by Family Tapes, stephenxjones, and Sun Cut Flat, featuring Derek Cedar and Mistah Levy. Released via Symphonic Distribution, the twelve-track album continues the group's mission of reclaiming the sovereignty of hip-hop for positive, impactful purposes.

Following the success of the previous volumes, Vol. 3 brings forward themes of critical self-reflection, detoxification of masculinity, and the celebration of intellectual thought. The album is anchored by the motif of chess—a powerful symbol of strategic thinking and intellect—as both stephenxjones and Derek Cedar have long taught chess to youth in their hometowns of Atlanta and New York City. Their deep-rooted commitment to both education and music provides a unique lens through which they challenge tired hip-hop tropes while uplifting themes of community and personal growth.

The album is 64 minutes, corresponding with the 64 squares on a chessboard The album is divided into 4 distinct quarters, mirroring a basketball game, as illustrated on the court shown in the back cover artwork. There are 3 songs in each quarter, which start in the morning, and take the listener through one full day in NYC and Atlanta, respectively.

The project is also a clear stance against the glorification of drugs and violence that has pervaded mainstream rap culture. Throughout Vol. 3, Family Tapes delivers their messages with strength, vulnerability, and a dedication to a higher consciousness, all without resorting to explicit language or derogatory tropes. This makes it a refreshing and crucial addition to the modern hip-hop landscape.