Greg “Olskool Ice-Grē” Lewis Talks Adult Contemporary Hip Hop and the Return of Abstract Mindstate The Hype Magazine: Unveiling the Pulse of Urban Culture – From Hip Hop to Hollywood! Explore a Diverse Tapestry of Stories, Interviews, and Impactful Editorials Spanning Fashion, Gaming, Movies, MMA, EDM, Rock, and Beyond! www.thehypemagazine.com – The Hype Magazine The Hype Magazine – News From Hip Hop To Hollywood!

In an insightful conversation, Greg “Olskool Ice-Grē” Lewis of Abstract Mindstate discusses his push for an Adult Contemporary Hip Hop category, his creative journey with Kanye West, and the future of Hip Hop’s evolving sound. Learn how this Hip Hop veteran is championing tradition while embracing innovation.

Olskool Ice-Grē Discusses Adult Contemporary Hip Hop and the Revival of Abstract Mindstate.

In a recent interview, Hip Hop pioneer Olskool Ice-Grē, one-half of the iconic Chicago duo Abstract Mindstate, opens up about his decades-long journey, the push for an Adult Contemporary Hip Hop (ACH) category in music award shows, and the future of Hip Hop’s evolving sound. Ice-Grē has spent over 20 years advocating for the recognition of ACH. This genre embraces the traditional sounds of Hip Hop while creating space for the legends and veterans of the culture to thrive alongside modern artists. You can watch the full interview after the recap!

Pioneering Adult Contemporary Hip Hop

Ice-Grē has been at the forefront of creating a movement for an Adult Contemporary Hip Hop category—an idea that he believes will provide a home for artists who represent the genre’s foundational sounds, without being squeezed into the mainstream rap category. In his view, modern Hip Hop has been diluted by corporate interests, leaving little room for the sonic styles that defined earlier generations of the genre. His vision is to expand the category of Hip Hop at awards shows and on radio formats, making room for both the younger generation and the icons who helped build the culture.

“I’m not separating, I’m expanding,” Ice-Grē says, clarifying that the goal is not to divide the genre, but to create more space for diverse sounds. He draws parallels to radio formats like CHR (Contemporary Hit Radio) rhythmic, where sub-genres are differentiated based on their sound. For Ice-Gre, artists like Cordae, Joey Bada$$, and even legends like MC Lyte represent what Adult Contemporary Hip Hop could embody, bridging the gap between traditional and modern sounds.

A Legacy With Kanye West and the Return of Abstract Mindstate

Ice-Grē’s contributions to Hip Hop extend beyond his own artistry. He worked closely with Kanye West as one of the founding A&Rs of GOOD Music, helping Kanye build a label that would eventually become one of the most influential in Hip Hop. Despite his behind-the-scenes work, Ice-Grē never felt overshadowed by Kanye’s meteoric rise. Instead, he cherished being part of something larger than himself, contributing to a movement that would shape the future of music.

After a 16-year hiatus, Abstract Mindstate made a powerful comeback in 2021 with the Kanye West-produced album Dreams Still Inspire on the YZY SND imprint. Kanye believed the world needed Abstract Mindstate’s message and sound, which he said had the potential to “heal people.” The album was well-received, and despite some distractions during its release, Ice-Grē remains proud of the work. He credits Kanye for recognizing the duo’s importance and bringing them back into the spotlight.

The Future of Abstract Mindstate and ACH

Looking forward, Ice-Grē is more excited than ever about Abstract Mindstate’s next chapter. The duo recently toured with Slum Village in Europe, and their upcoming album will be produced by Young RJ of Slum Village. With new music on the horizon and a growing conversation around Adult Contemporary Hip Hop, Ice-Grē is optimistic about the future of both his music and the genre he’s worked tirelessly to promote.

At 53, Ice-Gre feels he is living his 19-year-old dream, touring the world and sharing his music with new audiences. His mission now is to ensure that both veterans and younger artists can coexist, collaborate, and innovate in the same spaces, strengthening the Hip Hop community.

Dreams don’t expire” ~ Ice-Grē 

Expanding the Conversation at the Hollywood Independent Music Awards

Ice-Grē’s advocacy for Adult Contemporary Hip Hop reached a major milestone when the Hollywood Independent Music Awards introduced the category. Now serving on the board of the awards, Ice-Grē continues to push for greater recognition of artists who maintain traditional Hip Hop sounds but may not fit into the typical rap categories. He believes that with more doors open, the Hip Hop community can become even stronger.

“If we can get an artist like Ice Spice in the same room as MC Lyte, there’s a lot that can be learned,” Ice-Grē points out, stressing the importance of intergenerational dialogue within the Hip Hop community.

Join the full conversation below…Tune In!!!

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Looking Ahead

As Ice-Grē continues to wave the flag for ACH, he remains focused on expanding the genre’s presence within the industry. His goal is to create more spaces for like-minded artists, bringing both icons and rising stars together under one roof. As Hip Hop has celebrated its 50th anniversary, Olskool Ice-Gre’s vision is more relevant than ever, offering a way to honor the culture’s roots while paving the way for its future.

See what’s happening with Olskool Ice-Grē via his Instagram below or connect @olskool_icegre

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Tags: Abstract Mindstate, Adult Contemporary Hip Hop, Hip Hop Evolution, Kanye West and Abstract Mindstate, Olskool Ice-Gre interview

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