“UNNECESSARY” by MUG SHOT ft. HYDROPONIKZ, prod. PMBeatz
QUEENS, NEW YORK. The ground is wet, the neighbors are curious and an angry pitbull is barking from
a nearby rooftop. On ground level, a group of masked men have assembled holding golf clubs, shovels
and sledge hammers. At first glance, the scene could easily be mistaken for the early stages of a mid 90s
back-alley dust-up, but upon closer inspection it becomes clear that these men bear a purpose greater
than empty violence. Cue the spot light, the camera and the newest single by Queens rapper, MUG
SHOT, entitled “Unnecessary.”
Featuring fellow Queens native Hydroponikz, and production by DMV’s own PMBeatz, “Unnecessary”
looks to be the first visual offering and lead single off of MUG SHOT’s upcoming debut solo project
entitled “Punching Clocks.” In spite of the familiar combination between the two MCs and lone
producer, both the audio and visual presentation of “Unnecessary” stray far from their more
recognizable boom-bap inspired formula, while living up to the quality of music they are known for.
With what could arguably be classified as a more current sound, both lyrically and sonically speaking,
the imagery of the video lends a contrast that clearly represents a mid 90s East Coast upbringing. Think
black hoodies, timberlands and face masks. Picture things breaking, low angled spot lighting and stoic
posse shots, and try to remember that this video was shot in 2012. Coupled with the refrain of “bring
only what’s needed” and the listing of seemingly “unnecessary” items such as Instagram, menthol
cigarettes and porno, the images of shattered household materials help to high light the song’s irony by
creating visual art through the act of destruction.
Don’t get too caught up in the excitement and miss the message. This work of hip hop is deeper than a
banging beat and dope lyrics.
Video by aayyoojeff & Wayne Himself Productions
Video Edited by Hydroponikz & MUG SHOT
Track Produced by PMBeatz
