album anniversary Archives - Page 3 of 7

Joe Budden’s “Halfway House” Turns 15

October 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

This month marks the 15th anniversary of Joe Budden’s third studio album, Halfway House. It was released on October 28, 2008, via Amalgam Digital. The album was the first installment of a trilogy consisting of Padded Room and Escape Route, Budden’s fourth and fifth albums, respectively. Halfway House was the music industry’s first digital-only hip hop release. At the time, it was a groundbreaking tactic as entirely digital albums have become an industry standard.

Halfway House was also Budden’s first album to enter the Billboard 200 chart in five years since his Def Jam debut. It was his first independent release to do so. An independent project with a unique release strategy and a career-altering posse cut, the rapper-turned-podcaster’s third album solidified his lane. Today, we revisit Joe Budden’s Halfway House for its 15th anniversary.

Joe Budden’s Independent Grind

Following his departure from Def Jam in 2007 and his classic Mood Muzik mixtape series, Joe Budden signed with the Boston-based independent record label Amalgam Digital. His first offering for the label was a 2008 re-release of Mood Muzik 3: For Better or For Worse. The reissue, Mood Muzik 3: The Album, became his second official full-length album. It culminated Budden’s prolific mixtape run that deviated from the radio-friendly sounds of his major label debut. The Mood Muzik series introduced fans to the darker, rugged, and more vulnerable side that built him a devout fanbase.

That same year, Joe Budden released Halfway House, an album that consisted of bar-heavy lyricism like his acclaimed mixtape series. He also found his groove as an independent artist. Songs like “On My Grind” and “Go To Hell” displayed the Budden’s charismatic hunger. Halfway House notably marked a shift in Joe Budden’s career as he set out to conquer the independent space within hip hop’s blog era.

The Birth Of Slaughterhouse

The most significant moment of Halfway House is the song “Slaughterhouse.” The 7-minute posse cut saw Joe Budden team up with Royce Da 5’9”, KXNG Crooked, and Joell Ortiz for the very first time. Also featured on the song was Brooklyn rapper Nino Bless. With the exception of Bless, “Slaughterhouse” gave birth to the supergroup of the same name. A major moment for the culture, the four respected lyricists with their own cult followings joined forces to become a hip hop powerhouse. Following their union on Halfway House, the group released their debut album the following year. They eventually signed with Shady Records and released 2012’s Welcome to: Our House.

While the group ultimately dissolved over time after various label struggles and Joe Budden’s retirement from rap, Slaughterhouse is still remembered by hardcore hip hop heads as a special collaboration. The birth of Slaughterhouse on Halfway House altered the trajectory of each member’s career. They became a force to be reckoned with the help of Eminem, signifying the Shady 2.0 era. Looking back, Halfway House was a significant moment for Joe Budden’s career as an independent artist, as well as the formation of Slaughterhouse. It set the tone for the next phases of both his solo and collaborative journeys.

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LL Cool J’s “Mama Said Knock You Out” LP Turns 33

October 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The Golden age of Hip Hop was marked by some of the finest talents ever to grace the scene. Sitting right atop the pack was none other than LL Cool J. Today, the rap icon has become known to newer audiences as an actor and TV host. However, once upon a time, he was dropping back-to-back timeless albums. One of these projects is Mama Said Knock You Out.

Don’t get it twisted; even though LL Cool J is a jack of all trades, he’s still a master of rap. Forever dedicated to his craft, even after four decades since his debut, he still plans on releasing new music. Even though his legacy was already firm before 1990, his fourth album was an exceptional success. Furthermore, it’s widely regarded as one of the best Hip Hop albums ever. Spitting some of his most iconic bars on the record, the album set him even further apart from his peers. Thirty-three years later, the foundation of Hip Hop’s Golden Age is still partially owed to this classic project.

A Rising Legend Forges On

As aforementioned, before 1990, LL Cool J was already three albums in. Between his debut, Radio, and his third album, Walking with a Panther, he had become a rap juggernaut. However, some of his music between his second and third albums didn’t gain substantial love from Hip Hop enthusiasts. All that changed soon after when he released Mama Said Knock You Out. Seen as a return to form, LL was as tough and as bold as ever, and it became evident that no one was holding a torch to him.

LL Cool J Gets Back To Basics

As mentioned, LL Cool J lost some loyal fans after releasing his second and third albums. While still unmistakably Hip Hop, the rapper had begun to venture into other musical territory. His foray into love ballads was especially frowned upon by strict fans of the genre, but it all showcased his broad appeal. Also, looking back, Hip Hop was not as welcoming as it is today. Nonetheless, LL was bagging many new fans by his fourth time out. While his lyrical genius and tough-guy persona stayed intact, he also grew to become somewhat of a sex symbol. When he eventually performed the title track on MTV Unplugged, LL Cool J was ultimately certified as the hottest rapper around.

Beyond the imagery of it all, the music was also top-notch. Singles like “The Boomin’ System” and “Around the Way Girl” enjoyed significant airplay on the radio. Additionally, they helped to diversify his ever-rising fanbase. The final single off the album, “6 Minutes of Pleasure,” also enjoyed moderate success. However, with the plethora of topics he covered, LL Cool J stood out because he sounded at ease. His playful side was easily on display, both in his lyricism and in the music videos he put out. This further boosted his relatability as an artist despite some of the hard bars in his music.

A Stylish Hip Hop Classic

Marley Marl and LL Cool J were the sole producers on Mama Said Knock You Out, save for Bobby Erving, who co-produced the title track. By keeping the production circle as minimal as possible, there’s a distinct cohesion felt throughout the project. The album was also a commercial success and has since been certified 2x Platinum. Nonetheless, whether or not Mama Said Knock You Out dominated the markets or not, the music would have still rendered it a classic. Why? Because the Def Jam wunderkind kicked off the ’90s in grand style. It’s no wonder he was already labeled a veteran by his early 20s—and now, he has the discography to back the claims.

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Nicki Minaj’s “Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded” LP Turns 11

October 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

After the widespread success of her debut album, Pink Friday, Nicki Minaj capitalized on her expanding fanbase. Not only did she have a secure hold over Hip Hop heads, but she had also become a certified pop star as well. In 2012, she released her sophomore studio album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded. On the album, Nicki Minaj ventured deep into dance-pop, creating a diverse body of work unlike anything she’d ever done.

Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded might have been initially seen as a gamble for Nicki, but its commercial success proved it was all worth it. Housing her many notable songs, including “Starships” and “Pound the Alarm,” Nicki excellently toed the line between multiple genres. It’s been 11 years since the album was released, but the project and its songs have remained fan favorites. With the release of Pink Friday 2 around the corner, it’s important to highlight this defining moment in Nicki Minaj’s illustrious discography.

All Aboard The Pink Friday Wagon

By the 2010s, Nicki Minaj had a firm grip on her Barbie moniker. With her debut mixtape, Playtime Is Over, she had already begun to gain fame as the “rapping Black Barbie.” In 2009, after the release of the Young Money Entertainment single “BedRock,” the title strongly began to stick. However, everything was taken up a notch with the release of Pink Friday in 2010. Nicki soon became synonymous with the moniker, and Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded kept the ball rolling.

Embracing Dance-Pop

Although Pink Friday included pop, the genre was much more evident on Roman Reloaded. Jumping on the inescapable EDM and dance-pop wave of the early 2010s, Nicki enlisted several producers for the project. Notable dance producers involved in Roman Reloaded include David Guetta, RedOne, Alex P, and Carl Falk. However, Nicki also stayed close to her Hip Hop roots, recruiting the likes of Hit-Boy, T-Minus, and DJ Blackout.

The Two Sides Of Nicki Minaj

In line with striking a balance between her separate sounds, Nicki Minaj split the album into two. The album’s first half was more Hip Hop leaning, while the second half was filled with party tracks. Many songs off Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded relished in mainstream success and still enjoy radio airplay over a decade later. Notably, Nicki’s alter-ego, Roman, also appeared on several tracks. However, the most prominent songs of the album were the dance-pop tracks.

The album’s lead single, “Starships,” was especially welcomed by many. The colorful, summery music video was shot in Hawaii and further helped to boost the song’s widespread appeal. The song subsequently won numerous awards, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Female Video. “Starships” was a monster hit and peaked at the fifth spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Other singles released include the R&B-Hip Hop song “Right by My Side” featuring Chris Brown, “Beez in the Trap” featuring 2 Chainz, “Pound the Alarm,” and “Va Va Voom.” While none of these failed to match the success of “Starships,” they were widely appreciated by the fans. However, the genre inconsistencies with her single choices were frowned upon.

Reception

Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded was met with a mixed reception from critics. Due to the popularity of the album, however, it’s become treasured among the rapper’s fans. The album debuted atop the Billboard 200 chart, signaling a newfound triumph for the rapper. Although it pushed the artist firmly further into the pop stratosphere, the album still had enough Hip Hop elements to keep Nicki highly respected as a lyricist. Minaj hasn’t returned to such a pop-centric body of work since, so it’s imperative to recognize its importance. Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded was released when the world caught a dance-pop bug. Since then, she’s reverted to primarily Hip Hop but still borrows elements from other genres in her later works. That’s also why the album is worth celebrating—we may never get such a fun side to the Queen of Rap again.

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Lupe Fiasco’s “Food & Liquor” Turns 17

October 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In 2006, rap was on a roll, as prominent names T.I., Lil Wayne, Nas, Rick Ross, and many more released impressive albums. However, an undeniable standout was the debut album of Lupe Fiasco, titled Food & Liquor. With his solo debut album, the Chicago native showcased an alternative style of storytelling that made him instantly memorable. While his peers focused primarily on street culture, affluence, drugs, and women, Lupe Fiasco went a different route.

Even though he initially veered away from Hip Hop growing up, his love for poetry eventually led him on the rap route. On Food & Liquor, he rapped about a plethora of topics, including Islam, skateboarding, love, and singlehood. Even though the album hit the airwaves in 2006, he had worked hard on the project for three years. After gaining favor with The Neptunes, Kanye West, and Jay-Z, Lupe Fiasco was in more than capable hands. Now, 17 years later, the album remains relevant and timeless, proving why Lupe Fiasco is one of the best storytellers ever to grace the scene.

Birthing A Classic (Inspirations & Motivations)

Food & Liquor was released when Lupe Fiasco was 24 years old. However, he had been trying to get his foot in the industry for much longer. He initially signed deals with Epic and Arista, but both ultimately fell through. He later gained major attention when he appeared on Kanye West’s “Touch the Sky” in January 2006. Soon after, he caught the attention of Jay-Z, and the rest was history. Hov offered to executive produce his solo debut, which would eventually appear eight months later under Atlantic Records.

Lupe was born Wasalu Muhammad Jaco to a Muslim family. He credited his parents for awarding him a healthy childhood full of varying experiences. According to Atlantic Records, the rapper enjoyed diverse environmental exposure, influencing him as an artist. “My father was a real prolific African drummer and can play anything from the Djiembe’s to the bagpipes,” he said. “My mom is a gourmet chef that has traveled the world.”

“We were always around different cultures. It is because of these artistic experiences [that] there are no limitations to what I talk about on my record.” On the reason for the album’s title, which understandably raised eyebrows due to his religion, he pointed to his native Chicago’s corner stores. Likening “food” to positivity and “liquor” to negativity, he explained that the album features “both parts” of him. In summary, the album served to highlight the juxtaposition of his life up to that point.

A Unification of Diverse Production

Multiple names were behind the scenes with Lupe Fiasco on Food & Liquor. As mentioned, Jay-Z served as the album’s executive producer but wasn’t alone. Both Lupe and his manager, Charles Patton, also executive produced the project. Other producers included The Neptunes, Kanye West, Prolific, and B. Howard, among others. This eclectic blend of diverse artists breathed a unique life into the album.

The alternative edge on the album also led to its originality and, eventually, success. Lupe dabbled in pretty much every facet of his life, as well as his surroundings, to create a masterclass in effective and emotive storytelling. Over the years, Food & Liquor is best remembered for its lead single, “Kick, Push,” which earned two Grammy nods. The song was produced by the Grammy-nominated Soundtrakk, who, alongside Prolyfic, handled the bulk of the album’s production.

“I Gotcha,” the second single released, was produced by The Neptunes, and their signature is evident on the track. Ye handled the appreciated deep cut “The Cool,” while Craig Kallman produced the Grammy-winning single “Daydreamin’,” which featured Jill Scott. Altogether, Food & Liquor is a significant body of work that can hardly be put into one singular box. This is primarily thanks to Lupe’s lyricism and the various producers present on the project.

Lupe Fiasco Stands Out

When Lupe Fiasco released Food & Liquor in late 2006, the Hip Hop community went berserk. After much of the “same” within the genre, Lupe Fiasco was seen as a breath of fresh air. By treating the project like a grand case of poetry, he could divert from what was considered the norm at the time. His music was neither vulgar nor misogynist, and he wasn’t afraid to venture into other genres rarely tapped into. Food & Liquor featured fantasy, readings from the Qur’an, and impressive wit, garnering significant acclaim for its encyclopedic tendencies. The album has since been certified Platinum and peaked at the eighth spot on the Billboard 200.

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MC Lyte’s “Eyes On This” LP Turns 34

October 17, 2023 by newhiphopnews

As far as pioneering female rappers go, MC Lyte is beyond untouchable. She was the first woman in rap to release a studio album, paving the way for everyone else after her. Breaking onto the scene at 16, her talent was undeniable from her debut album. However, she kept the ball rolling with her sophomore project, Eyes on This.

Since Hip Hop was birthed 50 years ago, several exceptional artists have come and gone. Nonetheless, MC Lyte is etched in the genre’s history permanently. She has significantly contributed to the untouchable legacy of Hip Hop with her impressive discography. Eyes on This is now a 34-year-old album worthy of all the praise it has received over the years. After the success of her debut album, MC Lyte proved that she was no one-hit wonder.

The Road To Sophomore Success

In 1988, at 17, MC Lyte released her debut album Lyte as a Rock. It was a critical and commercial success, featuring hit tracks like “Paper Thin” and “10% Dis.” The album established Lyte as a prominent voice in the male-dominated Hip Hop scene. Due to the success of her debut album, there was a lot at stake for the rapper. Understandably, she had something to prove with her follow-up. This was especially important because it was set to arrive at a time when Hip Hop was beginning to gain significant mainstream attention.

Additionally, the genre diversified in styles and voices; she was already a unique figure. All things considered, MC Lyte had to put out an album good enough to arrest people’s attention. She took on the challenge, releasing Eyes on This on October 3, 1989, just a year after her debut. The project accomplished its main goal, further solidifying MC Lyte’s position as one of the leading voices in Hip Hop.

MC Lyte’s Artistic Evolution

Eyes on This represented a maturing of MC Lyte’s style. Her lyricism became sharper, and she tackled more topics than she had in her previous album. On songs like “Cappuccino,” “Not With a Dealer,” and “Please Understand,” she addressed issues like sexism, gun violence and empowerment. Furthermore, the album displayed her growing versatility as a rapper. It especially demonstrated her ability to balance party anthems like “Slave to the Rhythm” with socially conscious tracks.

The Innovative Approach To Eyes on This

Eyes on This was created when sampling was prevalent in Hip Hop production. The album’s production was handled by a handful of prominent producers, including Audio Two, Marley Marl, and PMD among others. They utilized samples from various genres, creating a diverse musical backdrop for MC Lyte to express her creativity. All 13 tracks on Eyes on This contain samples, some more than others. “Shut the Eff Up! (Hoe),” however, has the most samples on the album. The track borrows from eight different songs, and three of them were songs by MC Lyte herself.

A Second Win For MC Lyte

Upon its release, Eyes on This was lauded for its lyrical content, delivery, and production. Critics praised MC Lyte’s confidence and the album’s ability to address societal issues with intelligence and wit. The album also had a relatively successful commercial run. However, most notably, it was the first solo album by a female rapper to appear on the Billboard 200 chart, peaking at number 86. Its three singles, “Cha Cha Cha,” “Stop, Look, Listen,” and “Cappucino,” also performed moderately on the charts. All three songs peaked within the top 10 of the Hot Rap Songs chart. However, only “Cha Cha Cha” managed to reach the top spot on that chart.

The Album’s Legacy

Eyes on This is one of MC Lyte’s primary works that influenced subsequent generations of female rappers, including Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliot, and Eve. It showed that women could excel in a male-dominated industry, particularly the second time. In summary, Eyes on This continues to be celebrated as a classic album in the Hip Hop industry. The rapper had grown in confidence, skill, and tenacity in just one year.

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Nicki Minaj’s Debut Mixtape “Playtime Is Over” Turns 16

October 17, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It’s hard to believe that once upon a time, Nicki Minaj was still an up-and-coming rapper. These days, the rap titan is often heralded for her indelible mark in Hip Hop’s history. However, back in 2007, a relatively unknown Nicki released her debut mixtape, Playtime Is Over. Looking back, it’s easy to see why she chose such a befitting title.

Evidently, the Queen of Rap wasn’t here to play. Her first project was a long time coming and slowly laid the foundation of what is now an untouchable rap legacy. On Playtime Is Over, Nicki Minaj wanted listeners to take her seriously. Her lyrical prowess showed a hunger for success that only a few rising stars could even begin to emulate. Now, 16 years later, even though the mixtape isn’t the most popular, it’s a testament to her bulletproof persona.

The Resurrection Of Female Rap

By the 2000s, the wave of women in rap was slowly diminishing. Cue in Onika Maraj, the Trinidadian-American who was already bubbling thanks to her work as a part of The Hoodstars. Alongside her ex-boyfriend Safaree Samuels, Nicki Minaj had begun a slow and steady rise to penetrate the mainstream. However, assured of her solo stardom, she left the group and branched out on her own.

After releasing some of her work on MySpace, Nicki caught the attention of Dirty Money CEO Fendi. Eventually, she crossed paths with her now-longtime friend and collaborator Lil Wayne after he saw her on the DVD series The Come Up. Subsequently, between 2006 and early 2007, Nicki Minaj had begun recording Playtime Is Over. By July 2007, the mixtape was unleashed to the world, and a newfound Barbie was discovered.

Barbie & Her Friends

Playtime Is Over was released under Dirty Money, and Nicki Minaj had ample support for the project. Big Mike worked on the mixtape’s production, and many samples were also employed. As far as guest spots, Nicki Minaj featured a few noteworthy names, with Lil Wayne being the most prominent name attached. Tunechi was present on the fourth and fifth tracks, “Interlude” and “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop.” The latter track notably employed a sample of the song of the same name by Young Gunz. Other project guests include Hell Rell, Red Café, and Murda Mook, among others.

Nicki Minaj Comes Out Swinging

While incomparable to her latter works in terms of commercial triumph, Playtime Is Over was a magnificent way to etch Nicki Minaj into the minds of Hip Hop enthusiasts. Indeed, her recent works have employed other genres, mainly pop, but her debut mixtape is unmistakably Hip Hop. This was a conscious choice, as she sought to be taken seriously from the get-go. By dedicating the project solely to her now-signature flow, she proved straightaway that she could hang with the best of them.

Today, Nicki Minaj is a household name, but it’s important to highlight her firm musical foundation. On Playtime Is Over, instrumentals from many popular songs were utilized, but it’s strictly rap at its finest. An important strategy to attract listeners with familiarity, she was immensely secure in her rap skills to keep just the instrumentals. Overall, Nicki’s debut mixtape was a foundation-laying feat for the rap icon. With it, she began a musical run that has since stood the test of time.

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Cam’ron’s “S.D.E.” Turns 23

October 17, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Throughout his career, Cam’ron has been influential in shaping Hip Hop’s landscape, especially in the East Coast rap scene. Cam’ron has an impressive catalog to his name, dating back to his days with Children Of The Corn. However, he made his solo debut with the release of 1998’s Confessions Of Fire. Two years later, he followed it up with S.D.E.

The release of his sophomore album marked the beginning of a very successful decade for the rapper. It has now been 23 years since S.D.E. dropped, and in retrospect, it was an important transitional album for Cam’ron. While it may not be widely regarded as his greatest work, especially compared to later projects, S.D.E. certainly deserves more accolades than it gets.

The Making Of S.D.E.

Following the success of his 1998 debut album, Cam’ron stepped back into the booth just months after the album’s release. The rapper began recording S.D.E., his sophomore album, in 1999. Initially, the album was set to be dropped in the same year as The Rough, Rough, Rough Album, but going through several revisions ultimately delayed its release. S.D.E. was finally released on September 19, 2000, under Epic Records. The album’s title is an acronym short for “Sports, Drugs & Entertainment.”

Cam’ron Had Something to Say

The album features a mix of hardcore rap and mellow tracks. As its title suggests, the album explores themes related to street life, drugs, and the entertainment industry. Throughout the project, Cam’ron delves into the challenges, dangers, and allure of living a fast life. More importantly, he used the album to showcase his evolving style as a solo artist. The depth of his personality shines brightly throughout S.D.E., especially surrounding Cam’ron’s upbringing in Harlem. Moreover, the rapper’s storytelling ability takes center stage on tracks like “Do It Again” and “What I Gotta Live For.” On both tracks, Cam’ron vividly portrays the challenges of his upbringing and lifestyle.

Production And Feature Credits On S.D.E.

The album’s production features a mix of renowned producers, contributing to its diverse sound and appeal to different audiences. Lance “Un” Rivera, Trackmasters, Ron G, Armando Colon, Dame Grease, and Cam’ron himself all have production credits on S.D.E. However, most of the production on the album is done by Darrell “Digga” Branch. He produced 12 of the album’s 18 tracks.

S.D.E. also has a notable lineup of guest features, including Jim Jones and Destiny’s Child on “Do It Again,” Ol’ Dirty Bastard on “Violence,” and Juelz Santana on “Double Up.” Additionally, seven tracks on the album contain prominent samples from The Police’s “Roxanne” on “What Means the World to You” to Teddy Pendergrass’ “Don’t Leave Me Out Along the Road” on “Losin’ Weight” ft. Prodigy.

Cam’ron Delivers An Underrated Classic

Upon its release, S.D.E. received mixed reviews from critics. The album was also not a massive commercial success. However, it performed just well enough to push Cam’ron closer to the top. On the Billboard 200 chart, it debuted at number 14, which was also its peak position. While not as commercially successful as some of his later works, S.D.E. laid the groundwork for Cam’ron’s future successes in the rap industry. The album’s raw authenticity earned him a growing, dedicated fan base at the time. S.D.E. remains an essential part of Cam’ron’s discography, showcasing his artistic growth.

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Dom Kennedy’s “Get Home Safely” Turns 10

October 16, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Oct. 15th, 2023 marked the 10th anniversary of Dom Kennedy’s second studio album, Get Home Safely via The Other Peoples Money Company. The Futuristiks and DrewByrd served as the album’s primary producers, along with DJ Mustard, DJ Khalil, and more. It followed Kennedy’s 2011 debut, From the Westside With Love II, which established him as a major name within the LA rap scene.

While it serves as his most celebrated release to date, Get Home Safely marked a significant milestone in a thriving West Coast scene during the 2010s. It also signified a shift in a post-blog-era world where rappers could flourish independently. Today, we revisit Dom Kennedy’s Get Home Safely for its 10th anniversary.

Read More: 10 Essential Dom Kennedy Tracks

Dom Kennedy’s Magnum Opus

Get Home Safely is arguably Dom Kennedy’s magnum opus. Not only does the music speak for itself, but the album’s critical and commercial success attests to its legacy. It debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard US Rap chart and it is also Kennedy’s highest selling album. Dom moved over 10,000 copies in the album’s first week.

Get Home Safely painted a vivid portrait of LA culture from the perspective of Dom Kenned. His cool, calm, and collected flow encapsulates the unfiltered everyday life in the City of Angels like in “Let’s Be Friends” and “After School.” Then, there are records like “Black Bentleys” that capture Dom tapping into his full songwriting potential as he reflects on the humble beginnings that shaped his career. It’s the honesty, authenticity, and pensiveness across this album that defined Kennedy’s legacy.

Ahead of its release, Dom Kennedy expressed to HipHopDX that Get Home Safely was the album he always wanted to make. He had gone on his first global tour and aspired towards “leaving a real legacy.” Ten years later, it appears that Get Home Safely did just that.

An Ambassador For A Resurging West Coast

By 2013, the West Coast was experiencing a renaissance of rising talent. Los Angeles bloomed with collectives like Odd Future, TDE, and Pac Div. Meanwhile, artists like Casey Veggies, Vince Staples, and YG also helped usher in a new era for the West Coast. Like many of these emerging acts, Dom Kennedy was in his own lane, carving out his own niche while championing the West Coast. More importantly, Kennedy waved the flag for independence with The Other Peoples Money Company while many of his peers began signing with the majors.

Features on From the Westside With Love II came from all over America, but Get Home Safely was strictly a West Coast affair. Respected legends like Krondon of Strong Arm Steady appeared on the album, but it also spotlighted the wave of buzzing artists in LA’s hip-hop scene. Nipsey Hussle and Ty Dolla $ign featured on Get Home Safely; both of whom eventually became stars in their own right. Additionally, rappers Skeme and TeeFLii contributed verses, making the album a glimpse into LA rap’s bright future. On his second studio album, Dom Kennedy was at the helm of introducing the next generation of west coast hip hop. Simultaneously, he was setting an example for independent success.

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Gravediggaz “6 Feet Deep”: A Bonafide Horrorcore Classic

October 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It’s not every day an artist or group drops an album like 6 Feet Deep. The project is as unique as they come and has grown to have an unshakable reputation. Gravediggaz, a pioneering Hip Hop group formed in 1991, orchestrated the masterpiece. Prince Paul (The Undertaker), Too Poetic (The Grym Reaper), Frukwan (The Gatekeeper), and RZA (The RZArector) were the four members of Gravediggaz. The group was known for their horror-themed lyrics and uniquely dark production style. 6 Feet Deep was their debut album, and with it, they engraved their name in stone in the Horrorcore Hall of Fame. The album is a bonafide classic in the genre and houses some of Hip Hop’s spookiest songs. It also embodies what a true horrorcore album should sound like. It is almost three decades old, but its legacy has stood firm.

Background & Release

The formation of Gravediggaz brought together highly talented individuals each known for their contributions to Hip Hop. Prince Paul and Frukwan were both originally members of Hip Hop group Stetsasonic. In 1991, they joined forces with the late rapper Too Poetic, and RZA who was gaining widespread recognition as a member of the highly influential Wu-Tang clan. Forming Gravediggaz was a joint attempt for each individual to reinvigorate their respective careers, which had begun to lose momentum. 6 Feet Deep (also known as N***amortis outside the US) was a gamble for the four men, but it evidently paid off very nicely. The album was released on August 9, 1994, and it was recorded for three years, from 1991 till early 1994.

Production & Themes

The production on 6 Feet Deep was mostly handled by Prince Paul and RZA. However, a handful of tracks on the album have production credits by RNS, Gatekeeper, and Mr. Sime. Furthermore, the entire group is credited as a producer on the song, “6 Feet Deep.” RZA’s beats on 6 Feet Deep are few, but notable for the veteran producer’s distinctive style, and “Graveyard Chamber” and the title track are two tracks that exemplify RZA’s style. They are characterized by eerie samples, haunting melodies, and heavy use of atmospheric sounds.

These elements help create a macabre ambience that perfectly complements the group’s horror-themed lyrics. Prince Paul’s contributions on the album are impossible to overlook as well. He produced over half of the songs on 6 Feet Deep, and gave each track an extra oomph. While his influence is evident throughout the album, it does not steal the spotlight or isolate Paul’s beats from the rest of the project.

Gravediggaz also infused 6 Feet Deep with conceptual depth. They explored topics such as mortality, mental illness, urban decay, and existential crises. With lyrics rich in symbolism, metaphor, and vivid storytelling, they delved into these morbid subjects without inhibition. Additionally, they were unyielding in their approach, and offered listeners a glimpse into the darker sides of life from their perspective. Overall, the album’s thematic depth and horrorcore identity set it apart from mainstream Hip Hop releases of its time.

Highlights and Guest Appearances

For most of 6 Feet Deep, Gravediggaz are the sole presence on a track. However, two songs on the album feature guest artists. Shabazz the Disciple and Killah Priest both appear on “Diary of a Madman,” while Daddy Kruger, Scientific Shabazz, and Killah Priest are featured on “Graveyard Chamber.” The lead single, “Diary of a Madman,” is also one of the standout songs on 6 Feet Deep, as well as the most successful. It was the only song to make it into the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 82. Lastly, “1-800 Suicide” and “Nowhere to Run, Nowhere to Hide” are also notable highlights.

Reception & Impact

Upon its release, 6 Feet Deep achieved widespread acclaim. It was praised for its innovative production, intricate lyricism, and exploration of dark and existential themes. It is easily one of the most lauded horrorcore albums in Hip Hop history. The album was not a commercial triumph however, but it still managed to achieve moderate success. 6 Feet Deep peaked at No. 36 on the Billboard 200 chart.

6 Feet Deep significantly influenced the horrorcore subgenre. It also earned Gravediggaz the title of pioneers of horrorcore rap. The group’s innovative approach paved the way for a new wave of alternative and underground rap artists. Gravediggaz has influenced rappers like Tyler, The Creator. Also, Earl Sweatshirt and Tech N9ne are a few more examples of impacted artists. They have embraced darker themes and horror-inspired aesthetics thanks, in part, to the contributions of Gravediggaz to horrorcore rap. In conclusion, over the years, 6 Feet Deep has continued to be celebrated as a classic album. Moreover, the legacy of Gravediggaz lives on through this horrorcore masterpiece. 6 Feet Deep will continue to be celebrated for years to come, as it is an essential part of Hip Hop history.

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Lil Baby’s Debut Mixtape “Perfect Timing” Turns 6: The Genesis Of A Generational Star

October 10, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Some of the most amazing Hip Hop breakthroughs are the ones that nobody saw coming from a mile away. Take Lil Baby, who is now one of the most recognizable faces in modern rap. However, before his meteoric rise to fame, becoming a rapper wasn’t even on his radar. Nonetheless, when he caught the musical bug, he caught it big. In his first year on the scene, a hungry Lil Baby released four mixtapes, kicking off his career with Perfect Timing. The rest, they say, is history.

A befitting title for the project, the mixtape set things in motion for the rapper quite seamlessly. Perfect Timing marked its sixth anniversary in April 2023, and over the years, it has grown on some fans. While it may not be Lil Baby’s best project as a solo act, it evidently marked the genesis of his career. For that alone, it is an important project in his discography. Why? Because without Perfect Timing, there would be no Lil Baby. While there’s some new music on the way, it’s necessary to travel back to the early days.

Perfect Timing: A Grandiose Entrance

lil baby perfect timing — ATLANTA, GA – MAY 17: Pierre Thomas and Lil Baby attend Lil Baby “Harder Than Ever” Mixtape Release Event at Living Room Lounge on May 17, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia.(photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

Before recording his debut mixtape, Lil Baby invested some time in learning how to rap. His label boss, Coach K, had told him he had the makings of a hip-hop star, but he had no prior experience rapping. As such, he had to get into the flow and build himself up in the art of rapping. He famously sought out the help of fellow rappers Gunna and Young Thug to teach him. The two rappers mentored Lil Baby and helped him carve out his unique style.

Evidently, Baby was a natural, and grew at an incredible pace, learning and catching up in no time. Fresh out of prison in 2017 after spending two years for drug and weapons charges, Baby was ready to transition from the streets to the booth. He released Perfect Timing on April 14, 2017. On the reason for the title, he shared that he got out of prison at “the perfect time.”

Overcoming Challenges & Capturing The ATL Lifestyle

On Perfect Timing, Lil Baby recruited several renowned Hip Hop producers to handle the album’s sonic direction. 808 Mafia, Earl The Pearll, and OG Parker, among others, shaped the production and emphasized the gritty sound that became synonymous with Lil Baby’s early catalog. Moreover, Earl The Pearll had the most production credits on the mixtape, appearing on three tracks: “Rider,” “Grindin,” and “Racks In.”

Furthermore, on Perfect Timing, Lil Baby featured an impressive lineup of rappers. Gunna, Young Thug, Skull-E, Lil Yachty, Yogi, Duke, and Young Scooter all had guest appearances on the mixtape. Some standout tracks on Perfect Timing are “100 Round,” ft. Lil Yachty, “Rider,” ft. Young Thug, and “Our Year,” ft. Gunna.

Although his message sometimes doesn’t cut through as clearly as his later works, Lil Baby showcased honesty and vulnerability on this project. He rapped earnestly about his challenges, fears, and lifestyle, relating to his audience and gaining their trust. Overall, Perfect Timing has heart and set the stage for Lil Baby’s rise to stardom.

Reception & The Future Of Lil Baby

Even though it was raw, Perfect Timing was apathetically received. The production earned praise but still, he was gaining his footing in the rap game. Comparatively, the rapper’s flow, lyrics, and delivery were still considered shaky and self-doubting. Nonetheless, the mixtape helped to push him into the public’s consciousness and garner some buzz along the way. Thankfully, he capitalized on this and continued to improve through a prolific mixtape run which morphed him into the mainstream star he is today.

Presently, Lil Baby is widely considered one of the most influential voices in contemporary Hip Hop. The release of Perfect Timing was a turning point for the rapper and set his life and career on a very bright path. Six years after its release, one can agree that the rapper is miles ahead in terms of artistry today. However, while Perfect Timing has its flaws, for Lil Baby, it certainly dropped at the right time.

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