Raw Talent: Pettidee, the Hip-Hop Hero

When you first hear the hard-edged vocals of emcee extraordinaire, Pettidee, it may be surprising to notice a lack of sex, violence and negativity in his music. Instead of the typical themes found in many aggressive hip-hop acts, Pettidee takes a different approach with rhymes that reflect a lifestyle sold out --- not to personal gain --- but to a personal relationship with God.

The Florida born producer-turned-rapper has developed a distinct style that has made him one of the premier names in Christian hip-hop. Born, Dewayne Petty, the Jacksonville native has collaborated with some of the biggest names on the Christian rap scene including Lil' Raskull and Grits.

Using his distinctive vocal talent as well as his ear for production, Pettidee is a common source of remixes and arrangements. His skills behind the mixing board helped the veteran producer get his start, but it is his intense vocal style that makes him so popular.

Pettidee calls on a diverse range of influences in his music that blends Southern-styled hardcore rap, reggae fuel dance anthems and urban-inspired rhymes. He also draws on his own testimony to give the unique songs substance that goes beyond the beat. Having dealt with issues like abuse, drugs and violence in his past, the rapper uses his lyrical talent as a medium of expressing the dangers of wrong decisions and power of Christ to redeem them.

With a new album dropping this year and solid base of loyal fans, the experienced emcee is showing no signs of slowing down. The first thing you notice when hear Pettidee’s music may be his raw intensity as a rapper, but it’s his truly deep message that you don’t forget.

By Jesse Carey