When Montana Montana Montana looks back at the artist who released Really Not a Rapper in 2014, he recalls an individual navigating a path that extended far beyond the confines of music. More than a decade later, his experiences have shifted, and his perspective has matured, bringing newfound clarity to his creative output. His return is not a pursuit of reinvention, but rather an evolution of the narrative he began years ago.
#RNAR Has Become Bigger Than a Title
From its inception, Really Not a Rapper served as a deliberate contradiction. While Montana was actively producing hip-hop, he was simultaneously challenging the notion that his identity was solely defined by the genre. Over time, the #RNAR moniker has transformed into a comprehensive philosophy, blending his roles as an entrepreneur, father, businessman, and storyteller. He approaches his music today as a form of documentation, capturing the reality of his life rather than manufacturing an image for the studio.
“I’m not trying to become a new artist,” he explains. “I’m trying to make the strongest current version of the artist I already built.” This grounded approach is evident in his upcoming material, which continues to draw heavily from his West Coast upbringing and his daily experiences with business, travel, and relationships.
A New Chapter Without Turning His Back on the Past
Montana’s forthcoming music, including tracks like “Hella Nogal” and the more radio-accessible “Drunk Song,” demonstrates a clear, intentional distinction in his sound. He emphasizes that not every record needs to carry the weight of his history; some are simply meant to be entertaining and feel-good additions to his catalog. “There’s more perspective now,” he notes. “I still make art that’s entertaining, memorable, feel-good, and playable music.”
This strategy ensures that the Really Not a Rapper series can continue to evolve. Montana is currently developing several projects, viewing his artistic growth not as a departure from his past, but as a continuation of it. He acknowledges that the standards for production and visuals have shifted since 2014, and he is ready to meet those modern expectations while staying true to his roots.
Returning With Something Left to Say
The motivation behind this comeback is rooted in a desire to document his ongoing journey and further build his company, 925five Records. Montana views his return as a commitment to unfinished business and long-term catalog development. For long-time listeners, this new chapter offers a deeper look into his story, while new fans are introduced to an artist whose identity has always extended well beyond the microphone.
