RICHMOND, VA – Many people in America have become familiar with the slang kitchen term “Eighty-Six.” It’s used to indicate that an item is no longer available, traditionally in a restaurant, though it has also grown to have a more nefarious meaning – specifically, it’s a reference to murdering someone. And while East Coast artist Don Drano is not advocating murder in any way with his new album, “The 86,” he is serving up a notice that he’s trying to end all his competition in his hometown of Richmond, Virginia. 

As a professional artist since 1994, this long-time master of music has only gotten better as he’s gotten older. And across the 16 songs on “The 86,” he showcases that supreme talent in impressive ways. The project encompasses a whole plethora of feelings, and ultimately serve to show people that he’s an artist who has never stopped and who’s still at the top of his game. 

“Drano is arguably the best spitter on Just Plain Sounds,” said Richmond Rap Legend The Honorable Sleaze, who sadly passed away in 2017. Another comment from RVA Magazine said, “Drano has what it takes to make great hip hop records.” That impressive pedigree is something he’s worked hard to attain, and he’s anxious for a new and younger audience to experience what he’s bringing to the table today. 

“My voice, for sure, sets me apart from anyone else in the game,” he said. “Just like a good basketball player who drains every shot he makes, I’m draining every hit single I create. My flow is so nimble and my energy is like nothing else, especially when I’m on stage performing.” 

Drano has certainly racked up some impressive accolades over the years. He got his start performing with a group called Third World Terrorists, with whom he had the opportunity to open for Nelly as well as chart on the Urban College Radio Stations. He has also opened for Wu Tang Clan, T.I., De La Soul, Camp Lo, and Sean Price. He’s performed at some of the most notorious clubs in the U.S., and he’s collaborated with or been featured on multiple projects with some of the biggest artists in the game. In 2006 he won the Strictly Skills MC Battle in Richmond, and the year after he came in second place for the same competition. In 2007 he participated in the MTV MC Battle, which was held in New York City. 

The debut single from “The 86” is currently available across all streaming platforms. It’s a song called “Snake Oil,” which explores aggressions and hope and a variety of other emotions that come with friendship and betrayal. Like the other songs on the album, “Snake Oil” is a powerhouse of lyricism and professionalism that helps to set this rap artist head and shoulders above the competition. 

“At the end of the day I just want to be known as someone who made music that was true to themselves and relatable,” he said. “I want to be known as someone who didn’t compromise for any kind of new sound or fad that was going on. My fans have told me that every song and every album I create just gets better and better.” 

To listen to Don Drano’s music, or to follow him on social media, please visit the following links: 

twitter.com/Drano011
instagram.com/drano011
facebook.com/SlumRothstein 
soundcloud.com/drano01