Not Just Child’s Play
By Nicole CooksFor the ultimate in hop-hop wisdom, look no further than Phoenix’s own self-proclaimed BIGWO. In his album debut When I Was A Child, Warren H. Stewart, Jr. brings a powerful testimony that flows in both rhyme and rhythm. From backsliding to premarital sex, generational curses to pride, Stewart confronts major issues that are often left unspoken among the Christian church.Empowered with the Word of God and lyrics that aren’t only slick in their delivery, but also in the weightiness of their subject matter, Stewart conveys a message of repentance, reflection, and redemption. With songs ranging from reggae to rock, and all with an R&B flavor, this album rarely falls into a tempo slump. The title track serves as one of the most defining tracks, telling a transparent and honest story of Stewart’s childhood and his wandering journey into adulthood.The album itself is full of hidden treasures, with poetic interludes and humorous antics, all over tailored beats that are sure to make you nod your head and turn up the volume. There is often an element of theatrics among the tracks, but this only adds to the overall mood of the album. Busting out of predetermined roles, Warren fully represents Jesus Christ and none else. Through his honesty and overall creative genius, Warren makes listening not a chore, but a delightful experience.
