Is this DaBaby’s best project yet?
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TOP 5
5. Reesha Roulette (Teach Me)
What a fire title.
In “Reesha Roulette (Teach Me),” DaBaby makes it clear he’s ready to be a student, but only if the teacher got some ass on her. He’s also upfront about not catching feelings for this woman. Despite the usual criticism of his flow, he switches it up here, particularly with the herky-jerky style on the chorus, which works really well. Additionally, his aggressive rap verses contrast nicely with the old-school, R&B-inspired production.
4. Hollywood Freak
Hollywood freak or ratchet chick: which one are you choosing?
I’ve never had the pleasure of being with a Hollywood freak, so I can’t say how wild that experience might be. However, DaBaby paints quite a picture on this track. Over a smooth beat that could easily set the vibe at the telly, he drops a fast-paced, relentless flow, talking about a girl from LA who’s a bit bipolar, understands what he needs, and might be broke. Of course, he throws in a few bars about violence too. All in all, I love the way this track flows and how effortlessly smooth it feels.
3. Carry It On
“Carry It On” is tougghhhhh.
“Carry It On” boasts my favorite beat on the album. It’s dark, hard-hitting, and features a chilling sample that adds an eerie atmosphere I love. DaBaby rises to the occasion with a sharp, focused rap style, delivering lyrics that make it clear he stands on business and is fully aware of the snakes lurking in the world today. Of all the tracks on the album, this is the one I’m sure will be universally liked.
2. Did It
DaBaby is unapologetic, confident, and a heartbreaker in “Did It.”
One thing that stands out about DaBaby’s personality is his relentless stubbornness, and “Did It” captures that energy perfectly. While he acknowledges some past mistakes, most of the track is a bold declaration of his success, resilience, and lifestyle, delivered with his trademark swagger. DaBaby’s assertive lyrics are amplified by his punchy rap delivery and the track’s triumphant production.
1. Can’t Keep Keisha
My ninja, do you mean Keisha Knight-Pullman from The Cosby Show?
No cap, this is my favorite DaBaby release in at least three years. In “Can’t Keep Keisha,” we get a more laid-back version of him, as he leans into chill vocals, a bit of crooning, and lyrics centered around a relationship where the girl was so good to him that he couldn’t get her out of his mind. He also touches on his major come-up, mentioning that he’s taken losses but is still big enough to be booked even in Pakistan. Despite the relaxed vibe, DaBaby brings his usual dynamic flows and sharp punchlines. All in all, this track is a banger I vibe with.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
RGM RATING
(C) (76%)
I really enjoyed this album.
Whether DaBaby admits it or not, his controversies have impacted him. Every time he mentions standing tall, it feels like he’s trying to convince himself that he hasn’t been partially canceled by some. More than ever, it seems like DaBaby feels his back is against the wall, and in that position, he’s been delivering some of his best music. HOW TF IS THIS A MIXTAPE? is a project that flows well and showcases a more grounded version of the North Carolina rapper while still embracing the wild, dog side we know him for. Tracks like “Gimme A Reason” and “PHAT” bring that vintage DaBaby energy, delivering fun, high-energy club bangers, but it’s the introspective cuts like “Carry It On” and “Did It” that really hit home, showing a focused and resilient side of him. I also enjoyed his ventures into Jodeci-like production, especially on tracks like “Ain’t That A Bitch” and “Hollywood Freak.” Overall, this project highlights a highly motivated and purposeful version of DaBaby.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.