The Maturation of a Savage (I am > I was)

Right before Christmas hit, 21 Savage dropped his 2nd solo studio album titled "I Am > I Was" (Without Warning and Savage Mode were collaborative efforts). Appropriately titled, this project was a refreshing exhibition of growth for 21 Savage.

Although his debut solo album "Issa Album" peaked at #2 in Summer 2017, I Am > I Was marks Savage's inaugural debut at #1 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Managing to fend off previous contenders like Post Malone, Meek Mill, and freshman like A Boogie; I Am > I Was has held onto that #1 spot even into the new year. With features from some of Atlanta's finest and hip hop's brightest, this album marks the maturation that Savage has experienced in the past year.

The difference between his debut album and this one is that I Am > I Was goes a little deeper into 21 Savage, the man, where he wants to go, who he wants to be, and how his losses have helped to mold him. Issa Album seemed to barely scratch the surface of who he was, the subject matter was shallow, and predictable; flashy jewelry, lots of women, and typical male bravado. However, money, jewelry, hoes and clothes aren't the only things on his mind anymore. He wants to be a provider, make investments, stay out of trouble, and won't let anything distract him. On tracks like "A Lot," "Ball w/o You," and "All My Friends" he details his losses and how fame has affected his relationships. Although, true to Savage form, he doesn't miss a chance to brag a little bit either ("Gun Smoke" "1.5" "asmr"). Honestly, I'm excited to see how his music develops from here, he did a great job of staying true to his signature style while also honing it.

Something I noticed (that's been irking me) between "I Am > I Was" and Metro Boomin's "Not All Heroes Wear Capes" was that Savage's adlibs have become hauntingly similar to Big Sean's, so much so that there were times on first listen that I thought it was Big Sean himself -scratches head- y'all think that's Metro's influence?

Think about it let me know if I'm trippin but for now check out my rundown track by track below!