Welcome to Diverse City by TobyMac

Welcome to Diverse City is TobyMac's second solo album, released in 2004, and it is a riot of styles held together by one idea. The title says it plainly, a celebration of many kinds of people and sounds under one roof. I keep returning to it for its sheer, generous energy.

Why listen?

The sound is a bold mix of hip hop, rock, funk, and reggae, restless and full of colour. The production is busy and bright, packed with hooks and guest voices. The lyrics move between party and prayer, faith worn lightly but meant seriously. There is a welcome built into the whole record, a sense that everyone belongs in this city. It is joyful music with a real soul.

Favourite song: Gone

The standout, where the energy snaps into focus. It is a sharp, driving song about walking away from what drags you down.

I wanna know, wanna know what you were thinkin'
I can't imagine why it didn't even sink in
They say you never know what ya got 'til it's gone
Never know whatcha got 'til it's gone (It's gone)

The beat hits hard and the hook is impossible to shake, but underneath it is a decision to change. It reminds me of the moment you finally leave the car park behind and the trail proper begins, light on your feet. The song makes letting go sound like freedom, which is exactly how it should feel.

Key takeaway

Welcome to Diverse City is a generous, genre-hopping party with faith at its centre. Press play when you need lifting.

Tracklist

• Hey Now
• Catchafire (Whoopsi-Daisy)
• The Slam
• Atmosphere
• Gone
• Diverse City
• Stories (Down to the Bottom)
• Getaway Car
• Burn for You
• Ill-M-I
• Phenomenon
• Gotta Go

Details

Listen on

• Apple Music
• Amazon
• Spotify

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