21 Savage Addresses Botting Allegations on Latest Album “What Happened To The Streets?”
21 Savage has publicly denied claims that he used bots to boost the performance of his latest album, What Happened To The Streets?. The clarification came after Spotify reportedly removed 25 million streams from the project without offering a reason. Fans quickly speculated online that the adjustments were evidence of artificial inflation. During a recent livestream, DJ Akademiks shared that 21 Savage messaged him directly to clear the air. He reportedly said, “Yo, this sht is cap. Bro, why the fck would I bot 25 million? I would just bot 100 million if I was going to do that sh*t,” emphasizing that the accusation was false.
Akademiks also calculated that the 25 million streams would roughly translate to 20,000 album-equivalent sales on the Billboard charts, suggesting that the impact on chart numbers was smaller than fans assumed. Despite this explanation, skepticism remains on social media. Many users highlighted discrepancies between early first-week sales projections and the adjusted numbers reported later. One fan noted the difference between an initial prediction of around 50,000 units and the later reported total, questioning how the adjustment occurred. Another pointed out a projection from Kurrco that predicted the album would move 53,000 units in its first week, reinforcing doubts among listeners.
What Happened To The Streets? was released in December and debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200, earning 73,000 album-equivalent units in its first week. The album features high-profile collaborations with artists such as Young Nudy, Latto, Drake, GloRilla, G Herbo, Metro Boomin, Lil Baby, and Jawan Harris. Its performance has been closely watched because of both its commercial success and the controversy surrounding the streaming adjustments. 21 Savage has consistently emphasized authenticity in his music, and this denial reinforces his stance on maintaining genuine chart performance. Fans and critics alike are observing how the project’s numbers settle in the weeks following its release.
In addition to the streaming controversy, the album drew attention for a viral remark 21 Savage made on social media addressing Young Thug and Gunna. He advised the rappers to stop their feud, writing, “Yall nas fix that sht. Yall love each other na… fck the streets we ain’t get sht but trauma from that sht.” The message sparked debate throughout the hip-hop community, with artists such as NBA YoungBoy and Fivio Foreign weighing in on the conversation. The comment, combined with the botting allegations, kept the album in public discussion long after its release. 21 Savage’s response appears to aim at putting speculation to rest and keeping the focus on the music itself.
By addressing both the streaming adjustment and the viral message, 21 Savage has reinforced his commitment to authenticity and transparency with fans. While Spotify’s removal of streams raised questions, the rapper’s clarification suggests the changes were not tied to any manipulation. The album’s strong debut indicates continued support from listeners despite the controversy. Social media reactions show that fans remain highly engaged, dissecting sales numbers and projections. This engagement highlights the impact of 21 Savage’s work and the scrutiny that major releases face in the streaming era.
