If “Family Ties” truly is Fat Joe’s last album, he went out with a bang.

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TOP 5

5. Drive (Ft. Jeremih & Ty Dolla $ign)

I actually want to chill in traffic listening to this track.

In “Drive,” Fat Joe delivers exactly what fans love: smooth rhymes over a laid-back beat. Alongside Dre, they spit playa-like bars about spoiling and romancing women, set against a backdrop that screams midnight summer vibes.

Ty Dolla $ign and Jeremih’s features add dynamic melodies and sensual vocals, enhancing the song’s seductive atmosphere. And Hitmaka’s production, with its nod to 90s-inspired instrumentals, adds an irresistible nostalgia to the track.

4. Lord Above (Ft. Eminem & Mary J. Blige)

“Lord Above” isn’t the initial major collaboration between Eminem and Fat Joe; they previously joined forces for “Lean Back (Remix)” in 2004.

As anticipated, “Lord Above” has a sacred aura. First and foremost, the track boasts a powerful beat with literal cries for help. Over it, Mary J. Blige delivers a soulful chorus, Dre lays down a commanding verse, Fat Joe brings his signature gangsta style, and Eminem delivers a verse packed with diverse flows, digs at Nick Cannon, and intense threats aimed at rappers he considers irrelevant. What a combo, right?

Somehow, Fat Joe and Dre got Mary J. Blige and Eminem on the same song… That’s like mixing oil and water.

3. Pullin (Ft. Lil Wayne)

In the mid-2000s, rap was dominated by artists like Lil Wayne and Fat Joe, whose explosive tracks resonated with audiences. Fast forward to 2019, and these legendary rappers are still going strong. In “Pullin,” Joe and Wayne channel their old, formidable personas.

In “Pullin,” you’re hit with serious bars, a range of rap styles, and an unexpected “Let’s Get It On” sample, creating what might just be the first-ever Viagra-inspired banger.

2. Hands On You (Ft. Jeremih & Bryson Tiller)

Jeremih, Fat Joe, and Bryson Tiller in this song = Jordan, Ron Harper, and Pippen in game 6 of the 1998 finals.

Notice how I didn’t acknowledge Dre in the first paragraph? That’s because he dropped an awful verse that almost made me upchuck. However, I want to reiterate that you’ll love Jeremih’s passionate chorus and Bryson Tiller’s slick verse that has him switching between a soulful singer and a borderline rapper. Fat Joe’s verse isn’t my favorite, but I think his big-boy approach gives the song a slight gangsta feel.

1. YES (Ft. Cardi B & Anuel AA)

In “YES,” Fat Joe, Cardi B, and Anuel AA capitalize on a winning formula, blending heavy bass with whiny background vocals to deliver a hit.

What I admire about “YES” is how each artist—Fat Joe, Cardi B, and Anuel AA—brings their own distinct style to the track while still delivering hard-hitting verses. Additionally, the raw and unapologetic lyrical content, addressing topics like infidelity, wealth, and violence (Ahhh, the premise behind every black Netflix movie), adds depth and authenticity to the song.

Thank GOD we didn’t get a Dre verse in this track…

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SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN

1. Projects (4/5)

2. Been Thru (3.5/5)

3. Heaven & Hell (4/5)

4. Hands On You (Ft. Jeremih & Bryson Tiller (4/5)

5. Day 1s (Ft. Big Bank DTE) (3.5/5)

6. YES (Ft. Cardi B & Anuel AA) (4.5/5)

7. Big Splash (Ft. Remy Ma) (3.5/5)

8. Lord Above (Ft. Eminem & Mary J. Blige) (4/5)

9. Drive (Ft. Ty Dolla $ign & Jeremih) (4/5)

10. Pullin (Ft. Lil Wayne) (4/5)

11. Deep (3.5/5)

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OVERALL RATING

(C+) (77%)

Fat Joe may not rank in the top 5 rappers, but his impact on the hip-hop game is undeniable. In Family Ties, Joe wraps up his successful career by delivering a variety of hits that showcase his versatility.

Fat Joe is a helluva rapper. I think he’s explosive, has killer punchlines, and is underrated when it comes to wordplay. That said, Joe finds ways to hit us with bars that stick out like sore thumbs in Family Ties, making you feel like a satisfied customer.

Dre, on the other hand, channels a Drake-esque vibe in the album. His hooks, melodies, and lyrical prowess complement Joe’s style, although some may find his contributions lacking (I’m being nice. I didn’t like his vocal contributions to this album at all).

One of Joe’s strengths is his ability to craft diverse hits, ranging from ferocious tracks like “Pullin” to smooth tunes like “Drive” and club bangers like “YES.” Each track exudes excellent energy, making the album a go-to for an instant boost.

The production on Family Ties is a standout feature, with Cool & Dre and Hitmaka delivering beats that pack a punch and set the stage for competitive rapping.

Overall, Fat Joe’s departure from the rap scene will be felt, but his legacy lives on through albums like Family Ties. As a tribute to him, blasting this album and reminding detractors of his hits like “Lean Back” will keep his influence alive.

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