The wait is officially over. Chicago rhyme heavyweight ILL GORDON and acclaimed producer Uncle JoNH III have joined forces to release their long-awaited collaborative project, Pens & Needles—an 11-track masterclass in lyricism, soul, and street-centered storytelling.
The duo’s chemistry has been undeniable for years, with ILL GORDON making memorable
appearances on several Uncle JoNH-produced albums. But this time, the spotlight is solely on Gordo—
with Uncle Jonh handling all production duties to craft a cohesive, gritty soundscape tailored to the
seasoned emcee’s sharp delivery.
Leading the charge are the dynamic singles “Light Flex” and “You Know,” the latter of which dropped
with a visually raw music video on release day. But the album runs deep, with standout cuts like “Open
Mic” featuring fellow Chicago lyricist Vic Spencer, “Hit the Switch” with legendary Chicago voice Wish
and lyrical marksman Easy O’Hare, and the reflective anthem “Successful” featuring Andreaus Haley,
a key member of Gordo’s own Substance collective.
“PENS & NEEDLES” isn’t just another album—it’s a powerful collaboration that bridges Chicago’s soulful tradition with razor-sharp penmanship and timeless production. Whether you’re new to the names or longtime fans, this project is a must-stream for anyone who values authentic Hip-Hop. The album is available now on all digital streaming platforms.
