It's been two years since Baltimore's Al Rogers Jr. came out with his debut project, Almost, which was a somewhat-erratic introduction that touched on his weighted relationships with parents, watching his older brother sell drugs and his own frustration with the system. On narratives alone, the project was a solid one; Al shed his layers enough for listeners to get a sense of who he was beyond his music. Musically, it lacked a true identity, as his screechy delivery doubled as his best friend and worst enemy on a track-to-track basis. Having songs that were made two and three years prior to Almost's release sprinkled amongst newly-recorded ones made for a undesirable listen at times, too.

Al's taken all of these things into consideration, he says, and in his absence, he's worked hard to not only sharpen his artistry but his personal flaws. His upcoming project, BabyAl, is set to release in the coming months and he's given us a chance to share one of the project's songs, "BlueGreen", which showcases more singing than you'd anticipate if you've heard his earlier material. We talked to Rogers about "BlueGreen", BabyAl and what's been in the works while he's been taking time with his new music.

Expressing the importance of being your self. The sky is blue and grass is green these things are naturally that way, so it's an analogy for everyone to just do what comes natural, never force yourself to be like anyone else. Individuality has always been key to accomplishing great feats. Swooz! LYRICS BELOW: [Verse 1] You know its hard to say when they say don't wear no disguise don't tell me no lies it's just you and I we don't need no surprises// My beloved heart not far above lost nor far below low just give enough soul the truth is you who are you running to they can't save you only you can save you// My retreat it's not hard to see they don't know your fate fate are you free of hate hate please don't forsake forsake me// You know it's so dope don't you know you know its so cold when you know. [Hook] Blue skies grass is green on the other side you know what I mean you can't change who change who only you only you can be you [Repeat] [Verse 2] Fought with myself on nights like this on the nights I spent trying to get through these days like this on the nights I spent alone not sure about who I was then I heard a voice said "Al give me your trust" only one you understand that duplication is just saying that you disrespecting what God hand wrapped it's only one you understand that and imitation is just saying that you forgot that ribbon on top you forgot just where you got that rhythm you got. [Bridge] only you only you only you only you can be you [Repeat]

Your newest track, "BlueGreen", is probably your most singingest (lol) song you've done even though harmonizing has always been a part of your delivery. Why's that?

Al Rogers Jr.: I felt it was important to show that versatility, you know? Some of my favorite artists are actually singers and at this point in life I'm listening to more R&B/Soul than Hip Hop. Don't get it twisted though, i'm working on my rhymes just as much as i'm working on my pitch. I always remain a student of the game especially when you have artists out here spitting and putting out quality Hip Hop like Kendrick.

Judging by the material you've released over the past year, it seems that love is something fresh on your mind. Does that reflect your personal life?

Love is the most important factor in my life. Without it, I would not have any drive to continue at all; it's the origin of passion and the origin of hate. My music from the beginning has always been very personal and it's not just about falling in love, it's about the act of love itself. Life for a lot of folks of color is in a very dark place right now and love conquers all. The greatest leaders would not have been able to conquer any feats without love on their side.

Your debut project, Almost, was two years ago now. Is it difficult to go back and listen to the person you were back then?

Almost was necessary for me and I would not be able to make the music I'm making right now had I not put those personal stories into my music. A lot of that shit held me back and it was a lot of doubt and fear in those songs, so listening now feels triumphant. Although I am not in that same place, I can still appreciate how far I came.

How've you changed as a person in that time?

I'm a lot more honest with myself about my flaws and personal struggles. I'm still fighting some of the same inner demons but it's always better going into the fight with a sharper sword; my mind is more equipped. You learn to accept the things you can't change and learn to love the things you have. I'm not completely content with life but I am very happy with the route i'm going. Shoutout to my girl and my mom for holding me down.

What are a few things you think no one is expecting to hear on BabyAl?

An artist who came ready for battle, battered boots and all. BabyAl is my war cry; I have a lot of things to get off my chest because a lot has happened in these 2 1/2 years since Almost. I respect love in its truest form and a part of that is continuing to create and having enough heart to push this culture. It's so much going on in this world and I would be a fool not to talk on that as well so expect a lot of aggression and passion.

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