Mic Crenshaw Releases 17th Album, Announces Hawthorne Theatre Show

The socially conscious hip-hop artist's new record 'Retribution' features collaborations with regional and international artists.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:49am by Ben Kaplan

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Veteran Portland-based rapper Mic Crenshaw has released his 17th studio album, 'Retribution,' which he describes as a reflection of his 30-plus-year musical journey rooted in artistry and activism. The album features contributions from a diverse array of regional and international collaborators. To support the new release, Crenshaw will perform live at the Hawthorne Theatre on May 12, 2026, alongside legendary Wu-Tang Clan member GZA.

Why it matters

Crenshaw is known for his politically charged, socially conscious lyrics that tackle issues of racial justice, human rights, and global solidarity. His latest album continues this tradition, amplifying marginalized voices and perspectives through the medium of hip-hop.

The details

Retribution features production from Jonny Cool and guest vocals from artists like Toni Hill, Melissa Barrison, Trox, and Arietta Ward, among others. The album's first three singles, 'We Are Tigers,' 'Retribution,' and 'Afrika,' as well as the latest release 'Ice Twice Baby' (featuring Anthony Rivera and Drew Dru), showcase Crenshaw's rapid-fire delivery and collaborative approach.

  • Mic Crenshaw's new album 'Retribution' was released on April 4, 2026.
  • Crenshaw will perform live at the Hawthorne Theatre in Portland on May 12, 2026.

The players

Mic Crenshaw

A veteran independent hip-hop artist, poet, educator, media producer, and activist originally from Chicago who now resides in Portland, Oregon. He is known for his socially conscious, politically charged lyrics.

GZA

A legendary rapper and founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan, who will be joining Crenshaw for the Hawthorne Theatre performance on May 12, 2026.

Jonny Cool

The producer who worked on most of the tracks on Crenshaw's new album 'Retribution.'

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What they’re saying

“Mic is one of the most consistent artists in the region, when it comes to the messages in his music.”

— Gabriel Toedros, of Seattle's Abyssinian Creole

What’s next

Crenshaw will perform live with GZA at the Hawthorne Theatre in Portland on May 12, 2026, in support of his new album 'Retribution.'

The takeaway

Mic Crenshaw's latest album 'Retribution' continues his decades-long tradition of using hip-hop as a platform for social and political commentary, amplifying marginalized voices and perspectives through his collaborations with regional and international artists.