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Peter Leo & Kastro Zaytana Release “Tear Ish Up”

By 258Mafia on December 24, 2020

Written by: Julz Mancini

As I have made my way through the dense population of rap artists within the music scene, I have recently come across several who stay true to the fundamentals of Boom Bap. To many, boom bap was something of the past. However, it has been made abundantly clear that this style of music is still very much alive. It portrays that there remains a continued desire for relatable messages via authentic lyricism.

“The Will of the Genji” (TWOTG) is a musically inclined group in which consists of five talented creatives whom utilize the foundation of hip-hop to create their projects. From the United States to South Africa, “The Will of the Genji” is a collaborative team that includes Peter Leo (U.S.), Kastro Zaytana (U.S.), Alias (South Africa), L Tip (South Africa), and San the Instru- Monumentalist (Lesotho, South Africa). The group released their self-titled debut album in 2019 with their sophomore album “The Will of the Genji 2” following shortly after. Reaching audiences far and wide, the group has developed a buzz internationally. With their obvious knowledge and appreciation for the fundamentals of hip-hop, “The Will of the Genji” makes certain they showcase their abilities within every track they release. With the ongoing success related to their sophomore album, the group was featured in “Insomniac Magazine”. One of the singles from this project, “The Hands of Time” was placed on “Insomniac Magazine’s” popular “Hip Hop 10 List”, a weekly list revealing the most sought-after songs and artists, during September of 2020.

It is seldom I come across a unified group of artists whom blend and combine their unique sounds to create a well-rounded project filled with captivating production, catchy hooks, word play, punchlines, and soul snatching stories. There is no question “The Will of the Genji” embraces the culture while also presenting an innovative style to their audience. “Tear Ish Up” was recently released displaying the talents of lyricists Peter Leo, Kastro Zaytana, and producer Alias. This track, along with the video, brings the audience back to a time when flashy materials, naked women, and flexing in the club were of little to no significance. The video, while simple, has the viewer focused on the most important aspects of the project; the lyrics and production. Throughout the video, it is apparent the artists share the same love for the Boom Bap heritage in which is so deeply rooted within the group.

“Losing my sight. I often use my four other senses. My intent is moving these bricks out to Memphis. Look, hoes can tag along and ship the cargo piff embargo. There is no if tomorrow. Sip my sorrows. Spin the bottle. Turned into spin the barrel. Now this ain’t Russian roulette. They try to gift the gab you till they misses kiss the shadows.”

While listening and watching, I couldn’t help but to nod my head and repeat the lyrics. Peter Leo and Kastro Zaytana were in sync with one another adding a special dynamic to the song and music video. The visuals matched the song perfectly; raw, gritty, and symbolic. As I watched the two artists in action, I noticed they were the purest forms of themselves throughout the music video further proving that they embody the life and vision of true hip hop artists.

Click on the links below to get better acquainted with these talented lyricists!

“Tear Ish Up” Official Music Video
Peter Leo’s Instagram
Kastro Zaytana’s Instagram