“FORGOTTEN NO MORE” by Zy Smoke feels like a proud shout from Staten Island to the rest of the world. Often called New York City’s “forgotten borough,” Staten Island has long lived in the shadows of the city’s louder districts. But on this track, Zy Smoke flips that narrative completely. Instead of being overlooked, the borough becomes the heart of the story.
Right from the start, the production carries a classic New York feel. The boom-bap drums knock with confidence, and the ferry horn samples add a subtle but powerful touch of local identity. You can almost picture the Staten Island Ferry cutting through the harbour while the beat rides along. It’s nostalgic without feeling stuck in the past.
Zy Smoke’s influences are easy to spot, but he uses them in a way that feels natural rather than imitative. There’s the gritty spirit associated with Wu-Tang Clan, the storytelling depth that echoes Nas, and moments of melodic smoothness that feel inspired by artists like Bryson Tiller. Instead of copying any one style, he blends them together to create something personal.
What really drives the song, though, is the storytelling. “FORGOTTEN NO MORE” works like a love letter to Staten Island. Zy Smoke moves through different cultural layers of the borough, referencing Lenape heritage, Italian food traditions, and the cinematic “Godfather” atmosphere tied to Emerson Hill. These details make the song feel grounded in real places and real people.
The track also captures the borough’s contrasts. From North Shore neighbourhoods to the quiet natural beauty of the Greenbelt trails, Zy Smoke reminds listeners that Staten Island isn’t just a background setting; it’s a community with history, culture, and pride.
But the most powerful part of the song is its message. Instead of complaining about being overlooked, Zy Smoke turns that experience into motivation. The track celebrates resilience, diversity, and the grind that defines the borough’s identity.
By the time the song ends, it feels like a statement of arrival. “FORGOTTEN NO MORE” isn’t just about Staten Island; it’s about claiming space, honouring where you come from, and making sure your voice is heard.
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