Stan Ipcus

For every Michael Jordan, there’s an Earl Manigault; for every Jay Z or Lil Wayne, there’s a Stan Ipcus. Although history may be written by the victors, it would be a big mistake to not mention those who almost made it. Those individuals who come in second place face tribulations that are much more bittersweet than the individuals who end up wearing the crown and as soon as the lights go down and everyone goes home, the intentions and hunger of he who almost grasped victory are faded into obscurity. But what happens to that runner up? What happens to the second best?

Ipcus isn’t one to throw in the towel and “How I Met Your Mother” is proof of that. The track, which takes us on a whirlwind adventure of the highs and lows of his life, shows that, contrary to popular belief, there are no absolutes in life. From his humble beginnings as a University of Maryland student to rhyming in front of Kanye West (check out this wonderful piece for an in depth look on that particular incident), the track’s mellow tones and piano driven instrumentals make you empathize with the emcee’s roller coaster-esque experiences.

But not all is lost. Though he didn’t reach superstar status, the semi-pro rapper still has his feet firmly planted in the scene and ended up with with a family in the process. “How I Met Your Mother” is the first track from Ipcus’s debut album, Local Legend, which will be out for your listening pleasure on October 8th. Check out the track and take a moment to show the under appreciated artist some love.