The first Black mayor of Atlanta, Jackson played an instrumental role in shaping Black business and culture in Atlanta during his tenure from 1974 to 1982. He expanded Hartsfield Airport (now Hartsfield-Jackson airport), helping to transform of the nation’s busiest airports into the world's busiest airport. More significantly, he ensured 25% of all contracts would be set aside for minority firms, a move that transformed Black business in the city. Jackson reportedly told folks in opposition: “We simply won’t build [the airport] if you don’t agree to this. You can have 75% of the project or you can have 100% of nothing. What is your choice?"
In the song honoring Jackson, Mike raps: “I’m a young, Black Maynard, mama gospel singer / Daddy dope slanger, born from the anger / Tryna work a angle, get up out of danger / Hand on the pistol, the trigger hold the finger,” he opens the nearly five-minute cut. While Killer Mike, T.I. and JID all take a verse (in that order), Jacquees brings his silky-smooth allure to each chorus (“Mama, look at me now / Your baby boy is more than just a problem child.”
In addition to the track, the deluxe edition of MICHAEL will feature new songs “YES,” “GET SOME MONEY” and “ACT UP." MICHAEL DELUXE is due out on September 15. Watch the video below.
