Local legend Funkghost just released a bangin’ new video for The Way I Rock My Clothes, the first single from new album Dirty But Sophisticated. The track is a piece-by-piece tour through the wardrobe of a brand-name playa, from frames to kicks. But despite all his label-dropping, local indie rappers still hold Funkghost in high regard.

“He is the godfather of the independent hip-hop scene in Tampa, and has never gotten his due credit,” said DJ Lazy of veteran Tampa rappers Red Tide; he also hosts the show Hip Hop Flavors on WMNF 88.5-FM.

Said Funkghost: “People either categorize your music in the undergruond, mainstream or alternative box. I want (the new album) to be a combination of all those elements with a touch of sophistication to it.”

Dirty But Sophisticated is now out on iTunes and other online music retailers. Here, check out the video for The Way I Rock My Clothes.

[Photo: Joseph Correa, special to tbt*]