These days music is applauded for its eclecticism. All different genres are seeing a departure from more traditional sounds. Within hip-hop, this new genre of Internet rap has emerged, giving rise to a more colorful, fun-loving domain of melodies and messages. While the expanse of this new music is amusing and without a doubt entertaining, it is undeniably refreshing when an artist like YG chooses to remain true to rooted sounds and looks to address real world issues.
YG’s new album, Still Brazy, presents a sound that we’ve come to expect from the 26-year-old artist – one that effortlessly transports you to the streets of Los Angeles. The synth lead-laden tracks bring about a distinct sense of nostalgia, to a time when West Coast rappers reigned supreme. But while the tunes take you back, the contents of the tracks keep you grounded to present day.
Similar to his first album, My Krazy Life, this sophomore effort once again brings us into YG’s world. This 18-track LP, however, has a discernable difference in overall tone. The messages within the album are stronger and much more personal. Track by track, the Compton-based rapper shares his experiences from the last year-and-a-half – since his breakout debut album – painting a vivid picture of his life as well as the world around him. “I started going through certain things. You know I was having a little success. I saw what the success brings,” he explains in reference to unfavorable events that occurred as a result of his rise to fame. Personal life aside, YG also dedicates several tracks to addressing the social and political animosity he’s seen and felt around the nation, giving his stance on the nation’s issues.
“Don’t Come to LA” – Who are you referring to? Why the warning?
The message itself, you feel me, it’s basically talking about out-of-towners. They come in here and try to claim the culture and all that type of shit. And they aint even from out here. It’s just LA. They just, they just, you know, they come out here. Everybody move out of here and all that type of shit. There’s a lot of shit going on in every different way.
“Who Shot Me” – New thoughts since the incident? Any idea who did it?
It’s the same thing man. Still in the same place; still clueless out here G.
“Twist My Fingaz” – You rep the West Coast, specifically Compton, Bompton. What does Bompton represent to you?
Oh man, it’s the lifestyle, it’s the culture that’s supported me. You know, that’s it. I mean that’s where we from. That’s my everyday life for me, that’s the homies. I got a car wash on Rose Queens Boulevard; the address is 400 West Rosecrans, right there in the hood. All my family still staying in Bompton so I’m always out there.
