The vulnerability that these artists put into their lyrics is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles.
Kendrick Lamar
An award show’s principal purpose should be to honour artistic achievement that pushes boundaries, shows us something new, or changes the way we view the world, and often times that doesn’t translate into commercial popularity.
As a result of fusing African house and rap coupled with Lamar’s distinctive hip hop style, this album is able to connect to an international fan base by shining light upon international artists.
The compilation album’s eight tracks are equally as jazz- and funk-laden as his previous project. From a subject matter standpoint, the Compton native takes a chance to comment on the Black experience in America, the evils surrounding his hometown, and grappling with rising success.
Each song on the album has it’s own distinct sound, which showcases Ty Dolla $ign’s range and creativity as an artist. Whether the music is acoustic or produced by DJ Mustard, Ty Dolla $ign delivers on every song.
The album is a joy to listen to, as the production varies in style but also remains true to the core theme of the album. The content of the record is where it’s worth truly lies. It’s comparable to a reformation of the J.D. Salinger novel The Catcher in the Rye, focusing on the alienation and the painful phoniness of the adult world. It is an exploration of those raised in the Ronald Reagan Era, tackling their skewed identity and fragmented moral compass.
