San Diego artist Ray Gibbz may not come from a traditional music background, but “If I Ruled” proves that determination and self-belief can often be the best teachers. Written, produced, and performed entirely by the rapper himself, the single arrives as a modern reflection on society’s shortcomings and possibilities, drawing inspiration from the spirit of Nas’s classic “If I Ruled the World” while carving out its own lane. As a self-taught musician who learned his craft without formal training, Gibbz brings a refreshingly direct perspective to the table, turning big ideas into an accessible and thought-provoking hip-hop track.
The song eases in with shimmering melodies that seem to float upward, creating an airy atmosphere before a cool, measured beat settles into place. Rather than rushing to impress with rapid-fire flows, Gibbz adopts a calm and controlled delivery. His voice carries an almost unshakable confidence and a humane humility, sounding like someone laying out a practical blueprint coming from the biggest of hearts. That understated approach becomes one of the song’s greatest strengths.
Lyrically, “If I Ruled” revolves around a simple but timeless question: what would you change if you had the power? Gibbz imagines a world free from crime and poverty, a society where wealth is shared more fairly and ordinary people regain influence over distant and inaccessible systems. He presents his ideas in a straightforward, matter-of-fact manner that allows the message to land naturally, and shows how messed up the current system is, because none of those ideal scenarios he suggested are being implemented anywhere today.
The production mirrors that clarity. The beat progression is smooth and engaging without becoming distracting, giving the lyrics room to breathe.
“If I Ruled” succeeds because of its sincerity. It’s a song built on vision, offering a thoughtful perspective on contemporary issues while showcasing the talent of an artist who has truly built his sound from the ground up.
Review by: Naomi Joan