Joyner Lucas finally releases “Not Now I’m Busy.”
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TOP 5
Honorable Mention. What’s That?
“What’s That?” is a question that pisses off hoodrats.
“What’s That?” is driven by a beat that will body-slam your speakers. Over it, Joyner Lucas goes the hell off! Using flammable flows, the Worcester native hits us with lyrical content highlighting his cold-ass heart, talented shooters, great work ethic, and big bank account. Though this song feels like target practice for Joyner, his rapping is still top-notch.
5. Cut U Off (Ft. YoungBoy Never Broke Again)
Why was this collaboration so good?
Even though Joyner Lucas and NBA YoungBoy are two completely different artists, in “Cut U Off,” they are on the same page. In the song, which is powered by this action-packed beat, the two rappers talk about stacking money, shooting guns, and cutting off individuals who are bad for their health. While the former shines by hitting us with dynamic flows and tons of aggression, the latter shines with feverish flows and spirited vocals. Overall, I rock with the way Joyner and YoungBoy’s styles mesh.
4. I’m Ill
Do people still call themselves “ill” these days?
The beat attached to “I’m Ill” will immediately grab your attention with its heavy bass and classic sample, evoking a sense of nostalgia and excitement. Joyner Lucas’s performance elevates the track further, with his rap deliveries growing increasingly intense, his lyrics becoming more fiery, and his flows gaining dynamism as the song progresses. Overall, “I’m Ill” will successfully satisfy your hardcore rap cravings and love for old-school vibes.
3. 24 hours to live
If I had 24 hours to live, I’d eat a poke bowl naked at the top of the Washington Monument (Wait, you wouldn’t do that?).
The concept of having 24 hours to live is not a new one. In 1997, Mase dropped a track with the same name. I see some similarities in the two songs. In both of them, the artists talk about all the crazy s**t they would do if they had 24 hours to live. In Joyner’s case, he talks about killing all his opps, freeing all of his homies that are locked up, and causing mayhem at the White House. What I find very interesting about the track, which features a flaming hot, dark beat, is how Joyner toys with quick flows throughout, listing s**t so fast you can barely even consume his thoughts. That’s smart, though. He wants to do as much as he can in 24 hours.
2. Best For Me (Ft. Jelly Roll)
Who the hell is cutting onions in the bando?
Joyner Lucas and Jelly Roll make the perfect duo in “Best For Me.” Both musicians talk about addiction and how it has impacted the people around them, with the former giving vivid details about the things he said to his one friend who has a drug problem. The song boasts this dramatic beat, which serves as the perfect backdrop for Jelly Roll to hit us with passionate, stirring vocals and Joyner Lucas to hit us with an impactful, dynamic rap style.
1. Seventeen
I’ve already overplayed this track.
“Seventeen” is literally unhatable. First and foremost, how can you not love how Joyner Lucas flips Mac Miller’s classic “Donald Trump” beat? (Yes, Mac has a song dedicated to Donald Trump. This was before Donald was orange, though). Aside from that, I like how Joyner raps about his come-up and how arrogant and ready for war he is.
The Massachusetts MC hits us with slow and fast-paced flows in “Seventeen.” As a matter of fact, you’ll find it dope how he switches gears fearlessly. Overall, “Seventeen” is a song that will make you feel really good inside.
SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN
1. Put Me On (4/5)
2. I’m Ill (4.5/5)
3. Waiting On This (4/5)
4. Broski (4/5)
5. Fake Promises (3.5/5)
6. When I Need Love (3.5/5)
7. Cut U Off (Ft. YoungBoy Never Again) (4/5)
8. What’s That? (4/5)
9. Sticks & Stones (Ft. Conway The Machine) (4/5)
10. Best For Me (Ft. Jelly Roll) (4.5/5)
11. I Didn’t Go (Ft. Symba & DMX) (4/5)
12. Three Little Pigs (4/5)
13. 24 Hours to live (4.5/5)
14. Still Alright (Ft. Logic & Twista) (4/5)
15. Seventeen (5/5)
16. How Much Do You Love Me? (4/5)
17. Not Now I’m Busy (Ft. Nefertitti Avani) (N/A)
RGM RATING
(B-) (82%)
Joyner Lucas is undoubtedly one of the most ambitious rappers around. He fearlessly tackles any beat, delves into various topics, and collaborates with all types of artists. In Not Now I’m Busy, Joyner takes numerous chances and succeeds more often than not.
So, what resonated with me about this album? The first standout aspect was its vibrant energy. Joyner Lucas’s verses burst with explosive raps. While you may not align with Joyner’s beliefs, one can’t deny the sheer excitement he brings to the table.
Another commendable aspect is Joyner Lucas’s unwavering confidence throughout the album. His words carry weight, sounding precise and deeply contemplated. This confidence is particularly noteworthy as he delves into significant topics, from his own journey to relatable struggles like substance abuse, presenting himself as resilient and unyielding.
From a production perspective, Joyner Lucas adopts the approach of a versatile artist, reminiscent of a 90s rapper who tackled various beats with finesse. In Not Now I’m Busy, he navigates emotional and commercial themes with ease, demonstrating a thoughtful curation that caters to his audience’s diverse tastes.
This album’s greatest strength is also its biggest weakness. Have you ever played basketball against someone who aggressively drives the ball on every possession? It takes away some of the enjoyment, right? Similarly, Joyner applies relentless force throughout Not Now I’m Busy, which, while powerful, can become overwhelming after a while. Other than that, what other negative comments can you say about the album? It features really good beats, enjoyable rap styles, and lyrical content that is as real as it gets.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
This Post Has 2 Comments
When I Need Love is somewhere on my top 5. Good job!
That would be number 6 for me. That’s a really good song. Definitely respect that being in your top 5.