Legendary West Coast rapper/businessman/entertainer Xzibit breaks his 12-year musical hiatus with his new release Kingmaker. The 20-track project is a return to form for the rapper as he dons the mantle of a seasoned OG who has earned his stripes. Released under Greenback Records, the project boasts powerful names such as Dr Dre, Ice Cube, Busta Rhymes, Redman, B-Real and Ty Dolla $ign.
From the opening track “Play This At My Funeral,” Xzibit lays the foundation as he reflects on his journey and the hurdles he had to overcome to get to this point. This is followed by the banger “Everywhere I Go” (ft. Dem Jointz), a solid cut that is perfect for the whip. The previously released single “Been A Long Time Pt. 2” (ft. Jenn Em) continues Xzibit’s life story theme, reminding listeners of his antecedents bolstered by a gripping melodic performance by Jenn Em. The fun continues as X recruits Busta Rhymes and Jason Martin for “The Moment,” an anthemic jam brimming with raw bravado lyrics. The long awaited collaboration with Dr. Dre, “Leave Me Alone,” hits the bullseye, and is garnished with a solid vocal performance by Grammy-nominated Ty Dolla $ign. X has a lot to unpack as he expands his range, rapping on trap beats, thumping West Coast and East Coast style production. Examples include “Genesis,” “History” and “Shut Yo Mouth” featuring Compton Av and Butch Cassidy. On the lyrical tip, he teams up with Detroit’s very own Royce da 5′9 and K.A.A.N on “Crash” while giving a platform to newcomers like Guapdad 4000 and Tre Capital on “What U Like” and “End Of The Day ” respectively. “On For The Love,” X reflects on the glitz, glamour and drama and his love for the culture alongside Ice Cube and singer Lorine Chia. The final and title track, “Kingmaker” helps bring it to a close with a solemn backdrop brimming with insight and heartfelt lyrics about loss, sacrifice, and the ultimate revenge being success.
Overall, Kingmaker is a brilliant effort that serves as a culmination of his efforts on and off the public view. From his struggles, the ups and downs, and in-betweens, everything is well documented right here.
Other notable tracks include the Redman and B-Real-assisted “Higher” and the inspirational “Success.”
Stream on all DSPs here.
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