Tracks From The Attic

Album Release Date: 1999

Genre: Country Rap / Hip-Hop

Label: Lost City Music (Whitey’s Independent Label)

About the Album:

Tracks from the Attic is the debut album by Whitey Pines, released in 1999 when he was just 15 years old. Recorded in his attic in Auburn/Russellville, KY, Whitey self-produced, wrote, recorded, and mastered the entire album using basic equipment: a 16-track recorder and a Roland 1880. The album blends elements of southern country rap and hip-hop, marking the beginning of the country rap movement in Kentucky. The album gained local traction after Whitey performed his track “Rukkuz” at his high school talent show, sparking a wave of interest that helped him build a loyal fanbase.

Tracklist:

1. Rukkuz

2. The World

3. Don’t Say Nuthin

4. Hella Smokin

5. Amazing Grace

6. Sirens

7. Talkin

8. Trashbags

9. Money Pains

10. God Damn Women

Album History:

In 1999, Whitey Pines, at the age of 15, started recording songs in his attic using minimal resources. The album’s production was done entirely by Whitey, from writing to mixing and mastering. He drew inspiration from his rural Kentucky upbringing, blending raw, emotional lyrics with catchy beats, which set him apart from other rappers of the time. Whitey’s breakout moment came when he performed his track “Rukkuz” at a local high school talent show. This performance helped him gain recognition, and he began selling homemade CDs, which sold out quickly.

Significance:

Tracks from the Attic was a pivotal release in the country rap scene, particularly in Kentucky, where Whitey’s unique blend of hip-hop and southern country music resonated with local audiences. The album’s success established Whitey as an influential figure in the Kentucky music scene and laid the groundwork for future projects. Whitey’s work continues to inspire aspiring country rap artists, and the album remains a testament to the DIY spirit of the artist.

The Recording Process:

• Location: Auburn/Russellville, KY

• Recording Equipment: 16-track recorder, Roland 1880, microphone

• Production: Self-produced by Whitey Pines

• Recording Space: Whitey recorded the album in his attic, a location that would later inspire the album’s name, Tracks from the Attic. The attic was filled with remnants of Whitey’s personal history and artifacts, adding a unique personal touch to the project.

Notable Tracks:

1. Rukkuz

• Description: This track was Whitey’s breakout hit. It’s an emotional, raw song that tells the story of Whitey’s life and struggles at the time. “Rukkuz” became the anthem that introduced Whitey to a wider audience.

2. God Damn Women

• Description: A song that reflects Whitey’s personal experiences with relationships and heartbreak, with a tough, country rap edge.

Album Impact:

After performing at his high school talent show in 1999, Whitey gained a lot of attention. His self-made CDs were a huge success in his local area, and his music spread quickly through word of mouth. Whitey’s style and sound were distinct, and he soon became a recognized name in the Kentucky music scene. The album is considered one of the early foundations of the Kentucky country rap subgenre, influencing both local artists and the national landscape.

Whitey Pines’ Legacy:

Whitey Pines’ Tracks from the Attic was the beginning of his career, which would see him collaborate with several other artists, including Haystak, JellyRoll, and Lex Luger. Whitey became known not only for his raw talent but also for his entrepreneurial spirit, as he created his own label, Lost City Music, to promote his music independently. Whitey went on to release several successful albums and further solidify his place in the country rap world.