Despite living in New York City, rapper Oddisee’s devotion to the D.C., Maryland and Virginia region permeates his music–from his most recent album, “The Iceberg,” released in February, 2017, to his work with Diamond District, a local hip hop trio. Born Amir Mohammed and raised in Prince George’s County, Md., Oddisee is back in town to perform at D.C. concert venue 9:30 Club on April 20.

Before the show, he’ll join The Kojo Nnamdi Show to talk about how the Washington region influenced him. Tune in on Wednesday, April 19, at 12:30 p.m. on 88.5 FM or at kojoshow.org to hear the conversation live. Until then, here are our favorite five Oddisee tracks with local lyrics.

NNGE (Never Not Getting Enough) feat. Toine

In “NNGE,” Oddisee mentions Chocolate City and D.C. voting rights: “This is for Chocolate City though I represent the county/Until your vote is counted know I got you until I’m outy”. The chorus also recognizes the region: “This is for the county and the areas surrounding/ D.C., Maryland and Virginia, know I’m with you”. The video was shot throughout Prince George’s County and features some of Maryland’s famous foods, including Old Bay and mumbo sauce.

Beach Dr. 

“Beach Dr.,” off the album “Rock Creek Park,” pays tribute to Oddisee’s favorite place to ride his bike as a kid. The instrumental song showcases Oddisee’s music production skills and the relaxing, laid-back beat mirrors the energy of Rock Creek Park on a sunny, summertime afternoon.

First Step 

Along with rappers yU and XO, Oddisee rose to local fame as a member of Diamond District, a hip hop group that released album “In The Ruff” in 2009. On their 2014 album, “March on Washington,” Oddisee raps “DMV, where we’re known as the greatest”. The video features D.C. landmarks recognizable to tourists (the Lincoln Memorial) and locals (the U Street Metro station mural).

Killing Time

The chorus of “Killing Time” narrates Oddisee’s progression as an artist: “PG raised me/ DC made me/ NY paid me.” Later in the song, he gives us a tour of his favorite local spots, starting at Meridian Hill Park: “Where 16th and Euclid meet/ High fructose, she super sweet/ Hit Ten-Town, Maggiano’s/ Then Georgetown for the movie seat.”

Different Now feat. Toine

On “Different Now,” Oddisee promises, “DMV done bottled up/ I’m gonna make that bottle bust”. The video was filmed at recognizable spots throughout the region, like Tastee Diner in Montgomery County, Md. Later, Oddisee and Toine exit the Smithosonian metro station to explore the National Mall.

What’s your favorite Oddisee track? Tell us in the comments below, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter, and make sure to tune in on Wednesday April 19 at 12:30 p.m. to hear the conversation live.

“P.G. Raised Me, D.C. Made Me”: Rapper Oddisee On His Washington Roots – The Kojo Nnamdi Show

Back in town to promote his new album, “The Iceberg,” at D.C.’s 9:30 Club, hip hop artist Oddisee talks to Kojo about how the D.C. region and its music inspire his work.