Louder Than The Music

With 'Avid Artist', Illustrate and Salty Beats have created a beautiful representation of hip-hop’s essence that delivers tangibly the gospel of Christ. The 16-track project debuts on digital streaming platforms on July 12, 2024.



Today’s music business is fickle, at best. No longer are artists obsessed with putting in the time to perfect the craft. Instead, artists are looking for shortcuts while chasing the limelight. Going viral and farming streams have replaced the feet-to-the-pavement, grassroots foundation that hip-hop was built on. Even in the Christian market, how many individuals can say they are truly an Avid Artist?

“An avid artist requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for the faith and the craft.” -Illustrate

Illustrate (Shadow of the Locust) follows up the single release of “Sam Witwiki” with his newest album in collaboration with producer Salty Beats. From beginning to end, Avid Artist is a blueprint for rappers who want to build their careers the right way. With guidelines rooted in scripture, the project is a boom-bap-centered manual that includes decades of experience and wisdom.

In addition to the veteran skills of its creators, Avid Artist includes guest features from lyrical standouts Brinson, Jeremiah Dirt, ReadyWriter, Codak, and more.

Following 2023’s collective release “A Mighty Army Cometh, Vol. 2,” Avid Artist continues in the sonic tradition that Shadow of the Locust fans have come to expect from the hip-hop crew. It is undoubtedly a welcomed addition to the highly respected catalog.