R Dotta – ‘2.2 Pounds’ EP

On Friday, Charleston rapper R Dotta dropped a new EP called 2.2 Pounds. R Dotta is a Charleston native who has been releasing music for several years, but we’re just now catching up. In the past he had been working with Shack Deville, and he has always cited artists like Jay-Z and J. Cole as influences. R Dotta was also part of the Amethyst in SC project, and had a verse on the single “Straight to the Bank”, also released on Friday.

With 2.2 Pounds he takes his respect for Jay-Z to the next level by not only choosing an album cover that draws a direct reference to Jay-Z’s 1996 classic debut Reasonable Doubt, but he also gives a shout out to Hov in the intro track. At least one or two more references are made throughout, if my knowledge of Jay-Z serves me correctly. In terms of stylistic influence I’m hearing that in Dotta’s clear and direct vocal delivery; not too fast, not too slow, and the lyrics are the focus. “Back Flippin'” is particularly hot.

Listen to 2.2 Pounds by R Dotta below. Follow him on Instagram @rdotta843.