From Olongapo to the vibrant streets of Las Vegas and onto the global stage, Filipino-American rapper Ezekiel Miller, popularly known as Ez Mil, has captivated audiences worldwide. His meteoric rise in the music industry is a story of passion, talent, and relentless determination.
Ez Mil’s journey began with his powerful hit song “Panalo (Trap Cariñosa)” which resonated with listeners during the trying times of the pandemic. The song, with its potent lyrics and unforgettable melody, transcended geographical boundaries, earning recognition and praise not just from Filipinos, but also from music lovers all over the world.
A Historic Collaboration
On July 26, 2023, Shady Records made a groundbreaking announcement, welcoming Ez Mil into their prestigious family. Ez Mil’s signing with Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, and Interscope Records is monumental. Joining the ranks of legends like 50 Cent, he became one of a select few artists to ink deals with all three labels. The milestone is also historic as the Olongapo-born rapper became the first Filipino to sign with the two rap legends.
A photo posted on social media by the Grammy-winning artist and King of Hip-Hop, Eminem, featuring himself, Ez Mil, and Dr. Dre, further solidified the Pinoy rapper’s alliance with these musical giants.
Ez Mil’s Innovative Work
In February, the innovative music video for Ez Mil’s 2022 DU4LI7Y single “Up Down” was released, showcasing the genius of Trybe founder and former Jabbawockeez CEO/Director, Phil Tayag. This visually stunning piece marked Ez Mil’s inclusion among Tayag’s remarkable collaborations with artists such as Filipino-American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars, Anderson.Paak, and Paul McCartney of the legendary Beatles.
Eminem’s keen ear picked up Ez’s song, leading to a meeting between the legends and the upcoming star. The result was “Realest”, a certified rap masterpiece, reflecting Ez Mil’s unique singing-rapping talent.
Song Collaboration
A statement from Shady Records heralded the release date for DU4LI7Y: REDUX (Virgin Music), the deluxe edition of Ez Mil’s 2022 LP. Scheduled for August 11, this project features “Realest”, a collaboration between Eminem and Ez Mil, resulting from Eminem’s online discovery of the talented Filipino artist.
Emphasizing the skillful use of multisyllabic rhyme schemes and witty words, the collaboration marks an opportunity for Ez Mil to reach new heights under Eminem’s guidance, along with Dr. Dre’s Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope.
A Powerful Triumvirate in the Music Industry
As a newly signed artist to Shady/Aftermath/Interscope, Ez Mil becomes part of one of the music industry’s most prominent trios. Shady Records celebrates Eminem’s unique songwriting and wit, while Dr. Dre’s pioneering West Coast hip-hop sound echoes through the generations.
Together, Eminem and Dr. Dre have created timeless music, co-signing iconic artists like 50 Cent. Now, with Ez Mil, they look forward to building on this legacy.
Both Eminem and Dr. Dre have expressed their belief in Ez Mil’s exceptional talent. Their comments emphasize the unique quality and potential they see in this young artist from the Philippines.
“We’ve never been out there signing a lot of artists, and one of the great things about how we built Shady is how selective we’ve been,” commented Eminem. “And it’s even rarer that Dre and I sign something together – but I heard Ez’s music and was like, ‘this is really special” so I took it to Dre. We both agreed it would be a great fit and we wanted to work with him right on the spot.”
Dr. Dre added, “I’m really only interested in working on shit that sounds different from anything else going on out there, and only then if I feel I can really bring something to it. Em played me Ez and I had that feeling…that thing that happens when we both know we’ve found something special. And that was it….let’s get to work.”
A New Chapter Begins
With words of praise and a shared vision, Eminem and Dr. Dre are ready to work with Ez Mil, recognizing something special in his music. The collaboration marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Ez Mil’s story is an inspiring testament to his skill, innovation, and the universal appeal of his music. It is a narrative of a dream realized and a bright future that promises even more success. This collaboration with Eminem and his signing with Shady Records is not just a milestone in Ez Mil’s career; it’s a defining moment in the world of hip-hop, one that resonates with fans and musicians alike.
Another Fil-Am who has championed Filipino pride is Allan Pineda Lindo of Pampanga, more popularly known as the rapper-singer Apl.de.ap of Black Eyed Peas.
WATCH Ez Mil’s rap here and SEND CONGRATULATIONS in the comments below to the young Filipino-American music artist who is now poised to soar with American rap legends!
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