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A Rabbit Hole Worth Falling Down: Re-Examining Childish Gambino’s Because the Internet
In 2012-2013, I explored my identity through Childish Gambino’s music, particularly his album Because the Internet. Its unique promotional strategy combined performance art and storytelling, creating an immersive experience. The album’s themes of isolation…
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The Curator’s Return: How Bryson Tiller Found His Solace in a Double-Album
Bryson Tiller’s double album, featuring The Vices and Solace, marks the conclusion of his TrapSoul trilogy, showcasing his evolution as an artist. While initial receptions varied, Solace unifies the two parts and highlights Tiller’s…
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What’s More Important: The Streams or the Soul?
The streaming era emphasizes metrics like monthly listeners, often overshadowing artistic quality. This focus on numbers can overlook deserving artists and great music. Personal connection and emotional response should define music’s value, rather than…
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Is It a Collab Album or a Solo Project? The Fine Line of Modern Joint Projects
Collaborative albums have evolved, with recent projects often feeling less authentic, resembling solo efforts with minimal collaboration. Successful examples showcase strong chemistry between artists, while less effective ones lack balance and genuine collaboration. Despite…
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Late Registration: 20 Years of a Modern Classic
Today marks the 20th anniversary of Kanye West’s album “Late Registration,” which solidified his status as a key figure in hip-hop. Collaborating with Jon Brion, Kanye created an orchestral sound that tells a compelling…
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From Hawkins to the Home Studio: Djo’s Musical Journey on Twenty Twenty
Djo’s debut album, Twenty Twenty, showcases Joe Keery’s musical talent, blending ’70s and ’80s rock influences with warm synths and dreamy pop hooks. Lyrically, it navigates themes of vulnerability and introspection. The album’s indie…
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God Does Like Ugly: JID’s Contender for Album of the Year
JID’s album, God Does Like Ugly, is poised as a potential album of the year. The project showcases his artistic evolution, featuring collaborations with notable artists like Clipse and Jessie Reyez. Its themes include…
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Surrender to the ’90s: Re-examining the Only Album from Kut Klose
In the early ’90s, R&B trio Kut Klose, founded by Keith Sweat, released the iconic album Surrender, blending gritty swagger with sultry smoothness. Known for their impeccable harmonies and timeless production, the album explores…
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The Sound of Three Titans: What Could Have Been
Child Rebel Soldier was a brief supergroup formed by Lupe Fiasco, Kanye West, and Pharrell Williams at the peak of their careers. Despite the excitement, only three songs were released due to scheduling conflicts.…
ON KEY WITH RYAN
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