Everyone this side of a dial-up connection has seen Beyonce’s incredibly entertaining new video for “7/11.” You’ve probably heard of it, it literally had the internet going nuts (word to Bey’s H-Town compadre Paul Wall) tonight.
“7/11” is an undeniable hit, and I’m sure its release and her bouncy DIY-style video will be something discussed for generations to come. As I type this there are probably 711 think piece’s being crafted in dedication — and probably rightfully so. Even the song’s producer, Bobby Johnson, known for such hits as “OG Bobby Johnson,” is sharing in the accolades this evening. It’s a celebration.
But what you probably didn’t know (or missed if you’re a frequent reader of FSD) is that a Chicago artist we cover frequently, ACE B8gie, recorded over the “7/11” beat before there even was a “7/11.” Yes, back in July of 2014, ACE released his The B8gie Foo’ Blues EP, which included a track titled “Bird’s Eye View,” which was produced by Bobby Johnson. He even shot a video for it (said video is below), which dropped in August.
Some how, some way Bey got her hands on the instrumental (which had been reworked and revamped a bit by the time she likely heard it) leading to her internet-breaking new single, “7/11.” But yes, “Bird’s Eye View” existed first — and it’s a very dope record. Obviously if Beyonce comes calling the beat you once rocked over becomes null and void, but it’s still dope to hear a rap rendition of her new hit before struggle rapper freestyles begin pouring out this evening.
So please, meet ACE B8gie and his super dope “Bird’s Eye View,” which shares the beat for “7/11.” Yes, these things happen sometimes.
Bobby Johnson sends the same beats all the time,i heard the QUE joint a few months before that record came out too
Does anybody know who the red head was in the video?