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As a die-hard hip-hop enthusiast, I’ve been mesmerized by 21 Savage’s unique sound since he burst onto the scene. His gritty lyrics and haunting beats have not only defined his career but have also left an indelible mark on the genre. Today, I’m diving into his discography to rank his albums, from the raw energy of his early mixtapes to his chart-topping collaborations.
21 Savage’s journey has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, both in his personal life and through his music. His albums are more than just a collection of tracks—they’re a window into his evolution as an artist and a person. Let’s explore the artistry behind each record and see how they stack up against each other.
21 Savage’s Early Mixtapes
Before 21 Savage climbed the ranks with studio albums, it’s essential to recognize the raw and unfiltered groundwork laid down by his early mixtapes. These mixtapes represent the initial phases of his musical journey, showcasing his fierce approach to hip-hop and the honest storytelling that later became his signature style. I’ll take you through these earlier releases, highlighting the tracks that carved his path in the music industry.
The Slaughter Tape, released in 2015, marked 21 Savage’s entrance into the Atlanta hip-hop scene. It was gritty, with tracks like ‘Picky’ cementing his status as an up-and-coming rapper unafraid to detail his tumultuous experiences. This project was followed by Slaughter King, which came out later that year. What stood out about Slaughter King was its deeper dive into his life’s narrative, reflecting his commitment to authenticity. These mixtapes posed 21 Savage as an artist with a story to tell, one that resonated with many of his listeners.
| Year | Mixtape | Notable Tracks |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | The Slaughter Tape | Picky |
| 2015 | Slaughter King | Slime |
Collaborations have been pivotal in 21 Savage’s career—he’s known for choosing partnerships that complement his distinct sound. However, it was his joint EP with Metro Boomin, titled Free Guwop, a tribute to the influential rapper Gucci Mane, that truly signaled 21 Savage’s rising star in the hip-hop domain. His clever wordplay and Metro’s impeccable production quality weaved magic, setting the stage for what would become one of the most talked-about team-ups in modern rap music.
When assessing these mixtapes, the evolution of 21 Savage’s music becomes apparent. His lyrics grew sharper, and his style more refined, yet he maintained the raw edge that set him apart from his contemporaries. These early mixtapes are like looking at the blueprint of an architect—in them, you can see the foundation of the edifice that would eventually tower in the form of his later, more polished works.
Savage Mode (with Metro Boomin)
After thoroughly exploring 21 Savage’s early mixtapes, it’s only right to delve into one of his most pivotal projects: “Savage Mode”. My personal take on this album positions it as a defining moment in his career. Produced in collaboration with the renowned Metro Boomin, it wasn’t just an album — it was a cultural reset in trap music.
“Savage Mode” featured 9 tracks of chilling production, coupled with 21 Savage’s unyielding and menacing delivery. It became known for its dark, atmospheric beats and no-holds-barred lyrical content. The project dropped in 2016 and quickly gained traction, garnering significant streaming numbers and critical acclaim. It propelled 21 Savage into the spotlight and cemented both artists’ reputations as trailblazers in the genre.
Here’s a quick look at the breakthrough impact of the album:
- “X” ft. Future: Certified 2x Platinum
- “No Heart”: Peaked at No.43 on the Billboard Hot 100
- “Savage Mode” Album: Went Gold by the RIAA
The collaboration between 21 Savage and Metro Boomin proved powerful. Metro’s beats provided the perfect backdrop for 21’s gritty storytelling, molding an immersive soundscape. “X” particularly stood out with its catchy hook and Future’s guest verse, appealing massively to fans.
Moreover, “No Heart” became a standout for its raw emotion and brutally honest lyrics, showcasing a vulnerability that listeners connected with on a profound level. This cohesive project solidified 21 Savage’s unique place in the hip-hop scene, with a signature blend of genuine street tales and hard-hitting beats.
Diving deeper into “Savage Mode”, I can’t help but admire how the album allowed 21 Savage to explore different facets of his personality and artistry. The project showed his dynamic ability to pair storytelling with an emotional rawness, and it became clear this wasn’t just a momentary peak but rather the beginning of a lasting legacy in the rap industry.
Issa Album
Stepping up the game, 21 Savage released his debut studio album “Issa Album” in July 2017, which instantly made waves in the rap community. This project showcased his evolution as an artist, with a finesse that was perhaps less raw but more polished than his earlier mixtapes. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 charts, a testament to his growing influence in the hip-hop industry.
In “Issa Album,” I found that 21 Savage adeptly balanced his hard-edged rap persona with more introspective tracks. The lead single, “Bank Account,” became an anthem with its catchy hook and was one of his most commercially successful songs. Here’s the beauty of it: the success of “Bank Account” wasn’t just a fluke—it was a clear signal that his music resonated with a broad audience.
- Key Tracks in “Issa Album”:
- Bank Account
- Famous
- Nothin New
I was particularly struck by the depth in songs like “Nothin New,” which provides commentary on systemic racism and the struggles faced by the Black community. Tracks like these displayed 21 Savage’s versatility and ability to use his platform to speak on meaningful issues.
The production on “Issa Album” carried 21 Savage’s signature trap sound with contributions from established producers including Metro Boomin, Southside, and Zaytoven. The beats anchored his narratives effectively—gritty at times, yet allowing space for his storytelling to shine through.
One remarkable aspect of “Issa Album” is its feature-free approach, aside from a voicemail interlude from Young Thug. This choice demonstrated 21 Savage’s capacity to carry a full project as a solo artist, further elevating his status in the rap game. It’s a bold move in an industry that often relies heavily on collaborations for clout.
Undoubtedly, “Issa Album” is a cornerstone in 21 Savage’s discography. It allowed him to cement his place not only as a rapper who could deliver a banger but also as an artist with something consequential to say. With this album, he continued to defy expectations, charting his own path in a saturated music genre.
Without Warning (with Offset and Metro Boomin)
As 21 Savage’s artistry evolved, another milestone project materialized, coming as a Halloween treat in 2017 – the collaborative album “Without Warning” with Offset of Migos and producer Metro Boomin. This surprise release not only thrilled fans but also showcased the dynamic chemistry between these high-profile artists. It’s impossible not to mention “Ric Flair Drip,” Offset’s undeniable hit that emerged from the album, earning its place in popular culture with incessant radio plays and streaming success.
But “Without Warning” wasn’t just a flash in the pan; it encapsulated the growth and adaptability of 21 Savage. Tracks like “Ghostface Killers” and “Rap Saved Me” are prime examples, where my delivery syncs seamlessly with Offset’s flow and Metro Boomin’s haunting beats. The synergy between my unyielding vocal style and Offset’s versatile performances over Metro’s eerie sounds created a project that was continuously gripping and showcased our ability to narrate stories from our personal lives and the streets.
Here’s a quick glance at some of the standout tracks on the album:
- Ghostface Killers
- Rap Saved Me
- Ric Flair Drip
- My Choppa Hate N****s
“Without Warning” also became a commercial success. With its hard-hitting lyrics and rich production, it debut at number four on the US Billboard 200 chart. The album was both a critical and commercial triumph, exemplifying the clout that collaborative projects can have in the hip-hop industry.
Let’s lay out the numbers for “Without Warning”:
| Chart Position | Billboard 200 |
|---|---|
| Debut | No. 4 |
Not to overlook, the album solidified my position as a trailblazer in the trap music scene. Its dark overtones and honest storytelling added layers to my public persona, expanding my influence and reach within the genre. As fans dissected each track, they found a consistency in quality and a relentless spirit that could only be associated with a 21 Savage endeavor.
I Am > I Was
21 Savage’s sophomore studio album, “I Am > I Was,” released in December 2018, marks a significant evolution in the rapper’s career. Debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, the album cemented 21 Savage’s status in the music industry as a versatile and introspective artist. He steps away from his previous rawness, delving deeper into personal narratives and showcasing emotional maturity.
The project boasts an impressive list of features, including J. Cole on the introspective “a lot”, which tackles themes of fame, wealth, and betrayal. This track not only stands out for its lyrical depth but also highlights 21 Savage’s growth in balancing raw energy with reflective storytelling.
Chart Performance and Critical Reception
Upon release, “I Am > I Was” received critical acclaim and was praised for its lyrical substance and polished production. The album’s commercial success is apparent in its statistics:
| Chart | Peak Position |
|---|---|
| Billboard 200 | 1 |
| Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums | 1 |
| Canadian Albums Chart | 4 |
Tracks such as “can’t leave without it” featuring Gunna and Lil Baby, appeal to trap enthusiasts, while songs like “ball w/o you” reveal 21 Savage’s ability to connect with the heart through music. My favorite aspect of the album is the balance of aggressive anthems and poignant self-reflection, illustrating a rare duality in today’s hip-hop scene.
A Distinctive Musical Journey
The collaboration with Childish Gambino on “monster” and the introspective “letter 2 my momma” further demonstrate 21 Savage’s range as an artist. His ability to collaborate with a diverse roster of talent while maintaining his unique voice is remarkable.
The album’s production, handled by a cadre of skilled producers including DJ Dahi and Southside, melds seamlessly with 21 Savage’s signature style. It offers a soundscape that supports his growth both lyrically and sonically.
“I Am > I Was” solidifies 21 Savage’s journey from a trap rapper to a multifaceted artist. His ability to encapsulate listeners with a true-to-life narrative while simultaneously delivering bangers is a testament to his staying power in the hip-hop industry.
Savage Mode II (with Metro Boomin)
After exploring the depth and evolution of 21 Savage’s artistry in “I Am > I Was,” it’s impossible to overlook the groundbreaking collaboration that is “Savage Mode II.” Teaming up once again with Metro Boomin, the duo propelled the sequel to their 2016 EP into an embodiment of both their growth and mastery in music production and storytelling.
Released in October 2020, “Savage Mode II” is a masterclass in chemistry between rapper and producer. It commands attention from the get-go, featuring the iconic voice of Morgan Freeman as the narrator, adding gravity and theatrical flair. The album dives deep into the themes of power, respect, and the harsh realities of street life, delivered with the stoic demeanor and deadpan delivery that 21 Savage is renowned for.
The project’s standout tracks like “Runnin” and “Mr. Right Now,” which showcase the rapper’s ability to weave between unflinching recounts of his past and the luxury of his current lifestyle, reveal the multidimensional aspects of his persona. His unyielding flow over haunting beats hones a sense of invincibility that only 21 Savage can embody.
“Savage Mode II” saw critical and commercial success, with many fans stating that it not only met but surpassed the expectations set by its predecessor. Here are some notable achievements:
| Achievement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Billboard 200 Debut | Number One |
| First Week Album Sales | Over 171,000 equivalent units sold |
| Certified Status | Gold by the RIAA |
The influence of “Savage Mode II” extends beyond numbers. Its cultural impact is underscored by 21 Savage’s unapologetic approach to his craft. His collaboration with Metro Boomin showcases an unorthodox approach to hip-hop that’s as haunting as it is enthralling. The beats are crisp, clear, and hard-hitting, complementing 21’s raw narratives perfectly.
Conclusion
Diving into 21 Savage’s discography has been a journey through a soundscape where raw emotion meets meticulous production. “Savage Mode II” stands out as a testament to his evolution as an artist and storyteller. It’s clear that 21 Savage isn’t just making music; he’s crafting experiences that resonate with listeners on a profound level. His partnership with Metro Boomin on this album has set a new bar for what fans can expect. I’m eager to see where his artistic path will lead and how his future projects will continue to shape the landscape of hip-hop.