Hip-hop and rock, often seen as an unlikely pair, have had both successful and controversial collaborations over the decades. Real Ova Deceit, known as R.O.D., believes these two genres can coexist harmoniously, a belief that he encapsulated in his recent project, “Hip Rock.” Collaborating with producer and guitarist André Maquera, R.O.D. creates an eclectic mix that fuses hip-hop with elements of rock, blues, and funk, effectively showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Their collaboration began after local producer David Cooper recommended Maquera’s studio, West Street Digital, to R.O.D. Since then, the duo has developed a strong working relationship. “Hip Rock” features eight tracks that blend various musical styles, allowing R.O.D. to explore beyond traditional rap by incorporating singing and melody into his work. The lead single, “Going for It,” is positioned to resonate with modern rock audiences, characterized by its energetic guitar riffs and rhythmic flow.

R.O.D. expresses that the current hip-hop scene has become stagnant, overly focused on gaining views and streams rather than fostering authentic talent. He aims to break this mold by prioritizing creativity over algorithms, challenging himself with new musical endeavors. As he continues to work on new material, including collaborations with Memphis rapper Black Smurf, R.O.D. is also excited about America’s revitalized live hip-hop scene.

He has upcoming performances, including a showcase called GreenOut in St. Albans and a participation in the Champlain Valley Amateur Arts Festival. R.O.D. emphasizes the importance of hustle and quality in achieving success, highlighting his commitment to maintaining artistic integrity in an evolving industry. “Hip Rock” is now available on major streaming platforms.