by Myles Tiessen
Hopscotch and skipping his way through slick rhymes and eccentric flows, 22-year-old Caid Jones is an unrelenting force on “For The Game.”
Historically, the Winnipeg-based rapper uses his voice for public awareness and in support of various social justice issues. On “For The Game,” he keeps the spirit of community outreach alive, showcasing the beautiful grit of the middle province.
“It’s like we always been walking the line/ I put in work but still watch the poverty rise/ Until I’m in the dirt with my thoughts and a shrine/ I give it all, never stop ‘till I die,” raps Jones over a 90’s indebted beat.
A pseudo-psychedelic looping sample underpins the track’s entirety, creating an excellent launchpad for Jones to catapult into the stratosphere. A deep and booming bass envelopes the listener and gives the song the catchy edge it needs. One of the most compelling aspects of the production is the subtle, hard to hear synth melody that feels reminiscent of early Dr. Dre and would fit perfectly on Doggystyle.
The song’s accompanying music video takes a note from Jones and similarly captures the abrasive spirit of Winnipeg. Interspersed between shots of Jones’ crew cruising through downtown Winnipeg in an old Cadillac are profiles of real people who are a part of the community Jones exalts. “Pressuring the city like a diamond,” raps Jones about the place that raised him.
Rarely seen alone, the video profiles Caid Jones surrounded by friends and family. They ride bikes, pop champagne, and fine dine together, all working towards the vision of unity Jones expresses so vehemently through the track.
“For The Game” is a blissful and encouraging song about community actualization. With a strategic blend of old-school beats and modern takes of socio-economic upheaval, Jones addresses the one aspect of Winnipeg that has captured and confounded the soul of anyone who has lived there—the Adonic grunge.