Grand Agent – By Design 2

After more than two decades, hip-hop veteran Grand Agent returns with the powerhouse sequel to his groundbreaking debut, By Design. The much-anticipated follow-up, By Design 2 isn’t just an album—it’s a call to action for the hip-hop community, shaped by Grand Agent’s relentless work with PHILLY TRUCE.
Featuring an all-star lineup that includes Grand Puba (Brand Nubian), Cee Knowledge (Digable Planets), Tajai (Souls of Mischief/Hieroglyphics), MC Breeze (Joey B. Ellis), Culture Freedom (Poor Righteous Teachers), and Planet Asia, the album transcends underground purism, delivering a message that resonates with the entire hip-hop culture.

The production on By Design 2 is as diverse as its message. Longtime collaborators Tribeca, Prickly Pear, and Bjorn Von Kalt make their return, but the real sonic evolution comes from teaming up with LE Square, a Philly production legend known for inspiring his little cousin Pharell, and his work with Gillie Da Kid, and Sabbath, Grand Agent’s son. The result is a richly layered album that effortlessly blends soulful boom-bap with pop-leaning anthems.