Ski Mask The Slump God is one of hip-hop’s weirdos, but in the best way possible. Over the years, fans have come to love the cooky personality that he exudes, as well as his creativity and adaptability. So, after dropping STOKELEY in 2018, a lot of people were saddened as he took quite the long absence. Sure, there was the Sin City The Mixtape in 2021, but we think we can speak for quite a few out there when we say that we were hoping for an album. Well today that all changes, as Ski Mask The Slump God has just come through with 11th Dimension. This is his official sophomore studio album, and it features a nice collection of high-end talent.
Those include Future, ATL Jacob, XXXTENTACION, Juice WRLD, Skillibeng, The-Dream, and Corbin. Leading up to its release, Ski Mask put out a tandem of singles, the rage inspired “Shibuya”, and the rock/trap combo that is “Headrush”. In typical fashion, a majority of the tracks are short and to the point, and include some hilarious bars, along with the speedy flows. However, there are a few wildcards like “WDYM,” which features a watery and tropical vibe and sees Ski get introspective. The-Dream (surprisingly) joins him on the beautifully sung chorus as well. Some fans are saying that 11th Dimension is not living up to the hype after such a long wait. But you have to remember Ski was dealing with the losses of his closest friends (XXX and Juice). He has not been shy about much it has affected him, so him simply returning is rewarding.
Monte Lipman’s journey in the music industry is as remarkable as his significant financial achievements. Known as the co-founder of Republic Records, Lipman has built a net worth estimated at $30 million by 2024, according to LuxLux. This impressive figure is a direct reflection of his strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit. These have further shaped his career and the music landscape.
From Vision To Reality: The Birth Of Republic Records
Monte Lipman, Metro Boomin and Avery Lipman at Billboard R&B Hip-Hop Live held at The Novo on. August 8, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Brandon Todd/Billboard via Getty Images)
Lipman’s story in the music business began with a bold step – the establishment of Republic Records alongside his brother, Avery Lipman. What started as a small independent label quickly evolved into a powerhouse in the music industry. Lipman’s knack for identifying and nurturing talent played a critical role in this evolution. Under his leadership, Republic Records became a home for diverse artists, fostering an environment where creativity and commercial success could coexist.
The label’s growth was also fueled by Monte’s understanding of the changing dynamics in the music industry. His ability to adapt to new trends, from digital streaming to global marketing strategies, set Republic Records apart from its contemporaries. These strategic moves not only elevated the label’s stature but also significantly contributed to Lipman’s personal financial growth.
Championing Artists & Innovations
Monte Lipman and Avery Lipman at the City of Hope 2023 Spirit of Life Gala held at Pacific Design. Center on October 18, 2023 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Variety via Getty Images)
Monte Lipman’s impact in the industry extends to his innovative approach to artist development and music distribution. His foresight in embracing digital platforms revolutionized how music was marketed and consumed. This adaptability not only reinforced the label’s dominance in a competitive market but also showcased Lipman’s acumen in navigating the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Moreover, Lipman’s dedication to his artists’ careers has been a cornerstone of his success. By investing in their growth and prioritizing their creative vision, he has cultivated long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. This approach has not only earned him respect within the industry but has also been a key factor in the financial success of both the artists and the label, further bolstering his net worth.
Continuing The Legacy
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 31: (L-R) Jelly Roll and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of. Republic Records, Monte Lipman attend Republic Records Celebrates Artist. Community at Bar Lis on January 31, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Republic Records)
As Monte Lipman continues to lead Republic Records, his influence on the music industry remains profound. His ability to foresee and adapt to changes, coupled with his commitment to artist development, positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping the industry’s future. The legacy he is building is not just about financial success, but a testament to his passion for music and his innovative spirit. As he forges ahead, his strategies and decisions will continue to be watched closely by industry peers and music enthusiasts alike.
The Weeknd is one of music’s biggest names. His catalog is fairly extensive and includes a combination of studio albums and mixtapes. One way The Weeknd differs from other popular artists of the recent age is that most people see his mixtapes as regular albums. This speaks to the quality and diversity of the Canadian singer’s music. Some of his mixtapes even rank above the studio albums in the eyes and ears of many fans.
The Weeknd released his first studio album in 2013 with Kiss Land. This album followed three mixtapes, released from 2011 until 2012. Despite the earlier work, most of the world first gravitated to The Weeknd in 2015 when he signed with Republic Records. This year brought his album, Beauty Behind The Madness, which included the smash single Can’t Feel My Face. Currently, The Weeknd has five studio albums, multiple EPs and mixtapes, and soundtrack appearances. The latest is that his remix to Die For You with Ariana Grande debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March of this year.
Ranking The Weeknd’s albums can be difficult as the singer has an incredible music catalog. However, based on fan reactions and overall sales, these are the weekend’s best albums, and mixtapes ranked from worst to best. Here are The Weeknd’s best albums, ranked.
‘House Of Balloons’ From 2011
Though not one of his studio albums, many consider the 2011 mixtape House of Balloons the Weeknd’s best work. This collection of songs debuted before the Weeknd was who he is now. At the time, no one really knew the singer. In addition, this was a time when R&B was rediscovering its identity and needed something new. House of Balloons has been called an intense album. It details a drug-fueled bender between two lovers in a way many music fans had never heard before. The Weeknd’s House of Balloons is a must-listen for people who like experimental R&B. On the list of The Weeknd’s albums, ranked, this one is the best.
‘Thursday’ From 2011
Thursday came mere months from the release of House of Balloons. The album is often seen as a continuation. On it, he sings about pain and not wanting to succumb to the forces around him. The album involves themes of addiction, toxic love, and simply wanting to survive it all. Again, this was before people really knew The Weeknd, which means he had more room to be vulnerable.
‘After Hours’ From 2020
Critics believe After Hours to be The Weeknd’s first major studio album to fully capture the singer’s best. According to many, there are no skips on the album. In addition, it’s the perfect blend of his mixtape days and his more mainstream sound. Famously, the album had no featured artists and included the number 1 hit single, Heartless. Of course, After Hours also has Blinding Lights, which was inescapable. The song still holds up in the years since its release. The Weeknd’s After Hours is easily one of his best albums. This one could easily be ranked higher, but his overall catalog is impeccable.
‘Beauty Behind The Madness’ From 2015
For some, Beauty Behind The Madness was their introduction to The Weeknd. He had gained a following up until now, but this album catapulted him into superstardom. The Weeknd started the album rollout with the song Often as the lead single. After this came hits like The Hills and Can’t Feel My Face. It was the ladder that had worldwide appeal and really took off. This wasn’t only a hit for the day. Instead, it’s still a song that people go back to. Despite the subject matter of Can’t Feel My Face, the song even won a Kid’s Choice Award.
‘Dawn FM’ From 2022
It’s rare for artists to release multiple albums in a year. However, The Weeknd started working on Dawn FM in the early days of the pandemic. He wanted to provide the world with music that reminded people of going outside. In many ways, the album was intended to be an escape from the harsh realities of being in quarantine. However, it’s also a concept album that tells a deep story about going to the afterlife. Though not his best, Dawn FM is a solid body of work that came during depressing times.
‘Starboy’ From 2016
Starboy has a lot of fans, but it’s also not a favorite album by most of his R&B lovers. With this body of work, he continued to show that he’s an artist who likes to cast a broad net. It’s mostly pop. Some would probably say it’s his poppiest album. Not only that, it’s the one from The Weeknd’s catalog that has the most comparison to The King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson. Starboy may not have produced the biggest hits from his career, but it’s still an album every fan of The Weeknd should listen to. This is especially true of people who want to gain insight into the mysterious singer through his lyrics.
‘My Dear Melancholy’ From 2018
My Dear Melancholy is the 2018 EP from The Weeknd. While a solid body of work, many see it as more of a shortened rehash of his first mixtape. Because of this, many have disregarded it since they could simply listen to the original tape. It has fan-favorite songs such as Wasted Times and Hurt You, but it’s really not one of his more popular works, nor is it his best. Of course, most forgive this because he produced some of his best work after. Still, it’s an album that could shift places in a ranking of The Weeknd’s albums.
‘Echoes of Silence’ From 2011
Echoes of Silence is the last of The Weeknd’s pre-fame mixtapes. It continues his legacy of being music’s experimental sad boy. In addition, he makes references to Michael Jackson that really show his versatility as an artist. Though lower on the list than most of his studio albums, this mixtape is essential listening for the Weeknd fans and casual listeners alike. Standout tracks on Echoes of Silence include XO and Montreal.
‘Kiss Land’ From 2013
The Weeknd’s first studio album was Kiss Land. He described the album as similar to his trilogy of mixtapes but set in different places. On the trilogy, he was mostly confined to one room regarding the themes of the songs. However, despite still being a contemplative album, this one is a bit more friendly to general listeners. On the ranking of The Weeknd’s best albums, Kiss Land comes in last. All of The Weeknd’s albums and mixtapes are well-received, but an artist’s debut studio album is always special.
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