Music

Roc Nation Announces Signing of Brooklyn Rapper HDBeenDope, Shares “Paper Planes” Freestyle

As HDBeenDope explained, "serendipity" played a key role along his journey to signing with Roc Nation. "I'm here for legacy," the Brooklyn artist says.

HDBeenDope is pictured in a promo photo
Image via Publicist
Publicist

HDBeenDope has formally joined the Roc Nation family.

Tuesday, the Brooklyn artist officially announced his signing to Roc Nation, saying in a statement that “serendipity” played a pivotal role on his path to signing with Jay-Z.

“I’m a writer and artist from Brooklyn signed to Hov. Those of you who love hip-hop like I do understand how special that is,” HDBeenDope said. “I’d love to tell you it just happened out of nowhere but the truth is the intent has been consistent through and through. I think they call that serendipity. I’m here for legacy, living in the now, and creating for the future. That’s what I’m about, that’s what Roc is about. That’s what we are about.”

Last year, HDBeenDope dropped Side A: The Preface EP, which featured multiple tracks produced by Earl on the Beat.

As fans already know, HD has also been busy with his FreeVerses series, the most recent Erikson Corniel-directed entry of which can be seen below.

“As an executive, when you know, you know!” Shari Bryant, co-president of Roc Nation, said of bringing HD into the fold. “Between the charisma, the style, the energy, the lyricism, and his unique creative approach, it was clear to us that we needed HD to be a part of what we were rebuilding here at the Roc Nation label. We are excited for the world to see what he has to offer.”

Roc Nation co-president Omar Grant, meanwhile, pointed out how HD, in his words, “represents everything a Roc Nation artist should be,” with artistic consistency chief among those qualities.

“His approach to music and all creative aspects are intentional,” Grant said. “He has a sharp attention span for detail which you see embedded in his musical storytelling and across his visuals. We’re thrilled to have him on the team and show the world what’s to come.”

Below, catch a preview of HDBeenDope’s “Wake ‘Em Up,” which is dropping on Friday, September 9.

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