As the years progress, it seems like modern mainstream Hip-Hop/Rap has less storytelling elements and lyricism. The 90s had Wu-Tang, Biggie, Tupac, N.W.A to name a few. The early 2000s had Jay-Z, Nas, 50-Cent, Outkast, Eminem and more. In today’s music, it sort of seems like there’s more of a focus on great beats. Don’t get me wrong though, I’m more of a fan of modern hip-hop than older hip-hop. I don’t always feel like hearing storytelling songs, you know? Sometimes, I just want to vibe out to a calm beat. However, there’s still artists that channel that older hip-hop vibe. One of those artists is Freddie Gibbs. 

Freddie Gibbs has been releasing music since 2009. However, he became more known after he collaborated with well-respected producers MadLib in 2019 for his album: Bandana, and The Alchemist in 2020 for Alfredo. In a time period where the mass majority is more interested in listening to fire beats, Freddie is able to attract listeners with his creative flows and honest lyrics. Pairing his many flows with great beat selection is another reason why Freddie stands out. “Ruthless” from his recent album, You Can Only Die 1nce, is a great example of that. 

The first thing you can hear when you play the song is a familiar set of vocals. As the song continues to play you can hear the phenomenal sample used for this song. If you’re a big R&B fan, you’d recognize 112’s “Cupid” as the sample which gives “Ruthless” a soulful vibe. Freddie uses this song to let out some thoughts on how he feels about the caliber of  women he’s been dealing with. It’s sort of like the music is his therapy session. The sample makes this song stay on repeat. The soothing vocals of 112 paired with the raspy voice of Freddie helps keep the focus on what Freddie’s rapping about. Overall, a really solid song on a solid album from Freddie Gibbs.

Rating: 9/10