Richmond, VA — Grammy-nominated artist, writer, and cultural historian Mad Skillz proudly announces the release of his new album, Word For Days Vol. 1. A groundbreaking project powered by 16 extraordinary creatives from Virginia, including 14 from his hometown of Richmond. The album, recently recognized with a Grammy nomination, is more than music: it is a collective statement about the depth of artistry, storytelling, and talent living within the Commonwealth.

For decades, Mad Skillz has served as one of hip-hop’s most important narrators—celebrating homegrown talent, documenting cultural moments, and mentoring rising voices. Word For Days Vol. 1 continues that legacy while bringing together a multigenerational roster of musicians, poets, engineers, songwriters, and vocalists who helped architect the sound of the album.

A Creative Tapestry Woven in Virginia

At the heart of Word For Days Vol. 1 is an intentional and community-driven creative process. Skillz assembled a diverse lineup of contributors, each bringing a unique artistic fingerprint. The result is an album that reflects not only Skillz’s lyrical mastery, but the soul, grit, and imagination of Richmond’s creative ecosystem.

The contributors include:

  • Musicians: Alexander Mack, Bee Boy Soul, Bassman, Ty Bizzy, Matthew Steele, Ant The Symbol
  • Poets: Nyesha Fox, B Lovee, Poetry Lives, Radio B, Steph The Poet
  • Engineers: Michael Millions, Alex De Jong
  • Singer: Kia Bennett, Luhv Jonez
  • Songwriter: Jae Writez, Luhv Jonez

This exceptional group of creators represents the next generation of Virginia brilliance; voices who deserve recognition not just locally, but nationally.

A Call for Visibility

Despite the Grammy nomination and the extraordinary collective talent behind the project, no media outlets in Virginia have yet reached out to Skillz or any of the album’s contributors for interviews or coverage. For Skillz, that absence of homegrown support is surprising—but it also fuels his determination to spotlight the voices coming out of Richmond and throughout the state.

“This project feels like a housewarming kitchen chat where artists share anecdotes, learnings and ancestral feelings.”
~Phillipp Senkpiel, Tidal Magazine

A Sonic Time Capsule with Purpose

Word For Days Vol. 1 stands as a celebration of lyricism, storytelling, creativity, and collaboration. It highlights Skillz’s unmatched pen and curatorial eye while providing a platform to elevate rising artists and preserve the creative identity of his city.

From soulful instrumentation and layered poetry to sharp engineering and vocal performances, the album embodies the community spirit of Richmond—authentic, unfiltered, and deeply rooted in culture.

A Legacy Project from One of Hip-Hop’s Most Respected Pens

As a veteran lyricist known for crafting the iconic “Rap Up” series and contributing to some of the culture’s biggest anthems, Mad Skillz continues to evolve—moving from solely writing verses to building stages for others.

Listen Here.

About Mad Skillz

Mad Skillz is a Grammy-nominated rapper, writer, educator, and cultural archivist from Richmond, Virginia. Known for his storytelling, his annual Rap Up tradition, and his behind-the-scenes writing contributions across the industry, Skillz has spent decades elevating the voices and narratives of artists nationwide. Word For Days Vol. 1 is the latest chapter in his mission to uplift and amplify the creative excellence of his community.

DIGITAL ASSETS

Contact

Donnie Lewis (Mad Skillz)
skillzgotskillz@gmail.com
1 (804) 467-4377‬