‘God Forgives, I Don’t’ album speaks loud

Rick Ross has become a household name to hip-hop fans around the world because of his plethora of classic albums. Recently, Ross has become more of a CEO/mogel then a rapper but in his latest album “God Forgives, I Don’t,” Ross makes it clear that he isn’t going anywhere.

Notable standouts from the album begin with the introduction called “Pray For Us” which is a part where he brings back the classic prayer in the movie “Baby Boy” right before they try to kill Snoop Dogg. Ross made a brilliant choice in selecting this sample because the prayer is the perfect omen to what hip-hop culture has become — sort of a huge contradiction if you will. Speak about God and how you love him in one line but then immediately spew insults toward women and glorifying money. Great choice to start the album.

The song with the most star power was “3 Kings” which features a rare appearance from Dr. Dre and the genius Jay-Z. I like the theme of the record but I was disappointed by the beat selection. A song with such legendary wordsmiths should have a beat that will take you on a ride with such greatness. I still believe the song was solid.

 

The much anticipated “Maybach Music IV” did not disappoint as far as instrumental use. It was a beautiful compilation of saxaphone, trumpet, keys and drums which causes you to sit back and shake your head. Only thing I would have changed about the song was I was looking forward to seeing who would appear on the song but Ross went with just Ne-Yo on this one. Wish I could have heard someone like Kendrick Lamar show out on that record.

Just seeing the name Andre 3000 brings excitement to hip-hop fans who respect his genius. He stole the show on “Sixteen” which allowed him to get some things off his chest. It was great seeing Andre 3000 come back to the craft that he masters so effortlessly.

I have the most respect and appreciation for Rick Ross, not just as a rapper but for his beat selection. He has a deep appreciation for instruments which has become a lost art in hip-hop today. Though this was not his greatest album, this definitely reminds you why Rick Ross is still a heavyweight in the hip-hop arena. No pun intended.

Rating: B+

-Brandon Willis

Sports Writer

To contact Brandon Willis, email sportswriter@occc.edu.

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