‘CHROMAKOPIA’ – Tyler, The Creator
Released in October, Tyler, The Creator’s CHROMAKOPIA disrupted the music industry and earned the California native one of his biggest career moments to date. After his mother reassures him by saying “You are the light. It’s not on you, it’s in you. Don’t you ever in your motherf**king life dim your light for nobody” on its opener, the album portrays the 33-year-old as a young man on top of the world, grappling with outside pressures, internal revelations, and the seemingly endless quest for purpose and power.
With all songs written, produced, and arranged by the Grammy-winning rapper, CHROMAKOPIA gives insight into Tyler’s outlook, goes beyond the surface, and dives into the experiences that shaped his perspective. Examining ideas of identity, monogamy, aging, parenting, and paranoia, the California native’s rap skills shine through bold declarations, slick wordplay, and keen storytelling.
Aside from its deeply personal messaging, CHROMAKOPIA fully displays Tyler, The Creator’s commitment to rap music not only as an artist but also as a student exploring style and sampling sounds from other regions. He called on rising rap star Doechii on “Balloon” which features a sample of Uncle Luke’s “I Wanna Rock,” unites the past and future of Florida Hip-Hop with all of its uniqueness. There is also a distinct homage to his Hip-Hop predecessors, including Lil Wayne, Missy Elliott, and Pharrell Williams. It’s an apparent and deep reverence that’s appreciated in his creative flair.
CHROMAKOPIA debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s 200 chart after earning 299,500 equivalent album units in the first week, which only tracked four days of sales due to Tyler, The Creator’s intentional Monday release date.
Standout tracks in his eighth studio album include “Sticky” featuring Sexyy Red, GloRilla, and Lil Wayne, “Thought I Was Dead,” featuring ScHoolboy Q and Santigold, “Like Him” featuring Lola Young, “Hey Jane,” Rah Tah Tah,” and Take Your Mask Off,” featuring Daniel Caesar and Latoiya Williams. — DeMicia Inman
Listen: Apple Music | Spotify | Tidal
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