Over the course of his 20-year long career, Emmy Award-winning rapper, educator, published author, and community activist Devine Carama’s most impactful work has existed at the intersection of Hip-Hop, education, and activism. On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day of 2026, also recognized as a National Day of Service, Carama teaches the value of doing for others with his 17th solo album, Legacy Minded Men. Released today (1/19/2026) exclusively via Bandcamp, the concept album focuses on Carama’s legacy as an MC for its first half, while the second half focuses more on the legacy he aims to build in his personal life. Brooklyn-based Hip-Hop producer Aesthetic crafted a lush soundscape of hard drums, cleverly placed chops and vocal samples for Carama’s poignant lyricism on the album from start-to-finish. It follows in the tradition of Carama’s stellar 2025 collaborative album with producer Amadeus360 Guardians of the Boom Bap. Guest features include Boston-native, REKS, Kentucky's own, Tony Wavy, Corey Dunn, Terry Dumphord, and more.One hundred percent of proceeds from digital album sales will go to Carama’s youth nonprofit, Believing In Forever, which collects and distributes free Black historical books through his late daughter's memorial book program, The Luna Library. In the spirit of today’s designation as a day for Americans to volunteer in their communities to honor Dr. King's legacy, fans must complete a community service project, and post proof of the act of service on social media using the hashtag #LeavingBehindALegacy, encouraging others to do the same, for a physical copy of the new album. The project effectively reframes Hip-Hop as as a tool for political education and mutual aid, challenging the traditional industry model while engaging a legacy of service, sacrifice, and collective responsibility.“For most of my career, I was focused on survival and the future. This project made me look back—collecting the lessons I’ve learned and turning them into a blueprint for my children and the young men I work with. It’s about using Hip-Hop to build legacy, serve community, and create a movement—not just chase money and clout. My legacy isn’t what I accumulate, but what I leave behind when I’m no longer here. This is always top of mind for me.” - Devine Carama
