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The latest release from the legendary lyricist Chino XL<\/a>, titled \u201cAlways There,\u201d<\/em> has officially dropped \u2014 a striking reminder of his brilliance and complexity. Produced by Johnny Slash<\/a><\/strong>, the track pairs haunting, cinematic production with Chino\u2019s signature rapid-fire delivery and layered metaphors \u2014 a style fans have come to know and respect.<\/p>\n \u201cAlways There\u201d<\/em> dives into emotionally raw territory, touching on themes of hidden pain, mental health struggles, and the deeply personal conflict between being a devoted father and battling inner demons. The wordplay is sharp, introspective, and evocative \u2014 showcasing Chino\u2019s unmatched ability to turn vulnerability into poetry.<\/p>\n This single is part of his upcoming album Ascen7ion<\/em>, which will be available exclusively in physical format<\/strong> through 1332 Records<\/a><\/strong>. \u201cAlways There\u201d<\/em> stands as the only single to be released from the project, making it especially meaningful for fans and collectors alike. The album will be released as part of a special 3-disc collection<\/strong>, also featuring Chino XL\u2019s previous posthumous projects Darkness and Other Colors<\/em> <\/a>and Maps of Bones<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Tragically, the world lost Derek Keith Barbosa \u2014 known to many as Chino XL \u2014 in late July 28th, 2024<\/strong>. His passing was sudden and deeply felt across the hip-hop community and beyond. He is survived by his five children, five grandchildren, his mother, and his former longtime partner.<\/p>\n If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline<\/strong>. Help is always available, and you are not alone.<\/p>\n Make sure to catch the lates single off Spotify <\/p>\n \n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/undergroundhiphopblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/DSC4148-2-800x1200.jpg\")