A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Athelaston Mayers, is a trailblazer in the world of hip-hop. As a member of the A$AP Mob, he has carved out a unique space in the music industry with his innovative sound, high-fashion aesthetic, and effortless blending of genres. Here, we take a look at A$AP Rocky’s top three albums that have defined his career and influenced the landscape of modern rap.
1. Long. Live. A$AP (2013)
Long. Live. A$AP, Rocky’s debut studio album, catapulted him into mainstream success. Released in 2013, the album showcases his blend of Southern hip-hop, Harlem grit, and psychedelic influences. The project is filled with hard-hitting beats, intricate flows, and features that complement Rocky’s signature sound.
Key Tracks:
- “Goldie”: This lead single set the tone for the album, combining Rocky’s boastful lyrics with a luxurious beat.
- “Fkin’ Problems” (featuring Drake, 2 Chainz, and Kendrick Lamar)**: A club banger that quickly became a fan favorite, blending catchy hooks and verses from some of the industry’s biggest names.
- “Wild for the Night” (featuring Skrillex and Birdy Nam Nam): A track that showcased Rocky’s versatility, merging EDM elements with rap in a way that was groundbreaking at the time.
The album received critical acclaim and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, solidifying Rocky’s position as one of the leading voices in rap.
2. At. Long. Last. A$AP (2015)
Two years after his debut, Rocky returned with At. Long. Last. A$AP (2015), a more experimental and introspective album. This record reflects his growth both as an artist and as a person, offering a deeper dive into his psyche. The sound is more psychedelic and trippy, with nods to classic rock, blues, and soul.
Key Tracks:
- “L$D”: A standout track that perfectly encapsulates the album’s blend of rap and psychedelic rock. This song is a deep dive into Rocky’s experiences with love and altered states of mind.
- “Everyday” (featuring Rod Stewart, Miguel, and Mark Ronson): This track is an anthem that combines soulful melodies with introspective lyrics, underlining Rocky’s knack for genre fusion.
- “Canal St.” (featuring Bones): A gritty song that exemplifies the raw storytelling and honesty present throughout the album.
The album received praise for its ambitious production and thematic depth, further cementing A$AP Rocky as an artist who isn’t afraid to push boundaries.
3. Testing (2018)
With Testing, Rocky ventured further into experimental territory. Released in 2018, the album’s title speaks to Rocky’s ambition to test new sounds and ideas. This project reflects his desire to break free from conventional rap formulas, incorporating elements of rock, electronic, and avant-garde music.
Key Tracks:
- “Praise the Lord (Da Shine)” (featuring Skepta): A catchy, anthem-like track that features British rapper Skepta, blending grime with traditional hip-hop. This song became a major hit and remains one of Rocky’s most popular tracks.
- “A$AP Forever” (featuring Moby): This song samples Moby’s Porcelain and epitomizes Rocky’s love for mixing old and new sounds, creating something entirely unique.
- “Kids Turned Out Fine”: A melodic track that serves as a commentary on the challenges of youth and self-discovery.
While Testing had a mixed critical reception, it was appreciated for its bold artistic direction and set the stage for other artists to embrace more eclectic approaches to their music.
A$AP Rocky’s discography showcases an artist who thrives on experimentation and the blending of genres. From the ambitious debut of Long. Live. A$AP to the groundbreaking sounds of At. Long. Last. A$AP and the daring approach in Testing, Rocky has continuously evolved, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry. His ability to merge different sounds, collaborate with artists from various backgrounds, and maintain his unique style has secured his position as one of hip-hop’s most influential figures.
