Unfortunate but true, absentee fathers have been a point of reference for countless hip-hop songs over the years. For Clear Label Records rapper Esinchill, though, who is celebrating the release of his sophomore album, Vigilante, an album that features the likes of Mistah F.A.B., Casual, Dave Hollister, and more, the focus is somewhat different. With his latest single, the Jake One-produced "Daddy Was A Sailorman," the Oakland emcee is instead shedding light on the other side of the story; the father who has put aside his own goals to focus on parenthood.

"Daddy Was A Sailorman" is a conceptual song that tells the story of a son and father who meet during a dream and begin to discuss the different life choices the father made and how those choices impacted their lives. "The inspiration for the song comes from me always admiring my dad and his willingness to put his own dreams and aspirations to the side and be accountable to the family he chose to start," says Esinchill, who also notes Edo G & The Bulldog's "Be A Father To Your Son" as an influence for his own song. Speaking to his father, 17 years old in the song, he talks about how "these Marshall, Texas walls are closing in" and instead of pursuing his passions or school, he joins the Navy. Accompanied by Jake One's mellow production and a soulful hook sung by Esinchill's father himself, he portrays a man confronted with a variety conflicts, including the decision to have kids. "It's one of many truths that you'll find on Vigilante," says Esinchill, "and they should be explored and discussed."

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