MoneyBagg Yo recaptures his groove in “SPEAK NOW” (This review includes the deluxe version).
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TOP 5
HONORABLE MENTION. SUM TO HATE ON
Hating is at an all-time high.
The deluxe version of this album is outstanding, and one of the highlights is “SUM TO HATE ON.” As expected, in this track, Moneybagg Yo talks his s**t, making it clear that he’s unfazed by all the haters he’s accumulated—mainly because he’s given them reasons to hate. What are those reasons? He flexes about smashing other dudes’ chicks and buying cars that most can’t afford. Just like Moneybagg’s best songs, this one features a catchy chorus, a dramatic trap beat, and a “punchable” version of Moneybagg Yo (and when he sounds punchable, he’s on another level).
5. BUSSIN (Ft. Rob49)
How do these folks have the energy to do all these things to women (I feel like my back would give out)?
“BUSSIN” hits harder than a 50 Cent meme. The main reason for this is the track’s explosive production courtesy of Tay Keith and Wheezy. As for MoneyBagg Yo and Rob49, they hold nothing back (which is actually an understatement). In their respective verses, they discuss all the freaky things they enjoy doing to 10s that are sluts; this includes engaging in intimate acts in cars and having their bodily fluids fly across rooms. Though their rap styles could be described as impactful, they also can be described as pretty playa.
4. TRYNA MAKE SURE
If anyone starts a conversation with “I’m tryna make sure,” they’re definitely trying to son you.
In “TRYNA MAKE SURE,” MoneyBagg Yo uses the phrase “tryna make sure” in both positive and reckless ways. On the positive side, he mentions he’s “tryna make sure” all his homies eat. On the flip side, he says he’s “tryna make sure” folks know he doesn’t f**k them. Whatever the case may be, this track features the typical uptempo trap beat that MoneyBagg loves and a gimmicky hook you’ll love.
MoneyBagg Yo is 150-2 when he delivers a gimmicky hook.
3. PLAY DA FOOL
MoneyBagg Yo is me whenever I go to a Wal-Mart in the hood.
“PLAY DA FOOL” is powered by a heinous, stompy beat that sounds like something Latto would do some major work over. Over it, MoneyBagg Yo spits bars about listening to his inner voice, which tells him to ignore broke rappers and those who want to see him down bad. For me, the hook is what will keep me coming back to the track. I also find the way MoneyBagg seamlessly switches the speed of his flow throughout highly entertaining.
2. FOOT SOLDIERS
“FOOT SOLDIERS” came in and whooped everyone’s ass from the original version of this album.
I think MoneyBagg Yo is incredibly bold for tackling Lil Wayne and Birdman’s classic “Neck Uv The Woods” beat in “FOOT SOLDIERS” (by the way, that’s one of the best hip-hop instrumentals of all time). The good news is that MoneyBagg did it justice. With what seems like fire in his belly (not from eating too many damn chalupas), he calls out snitches, those who switched up on him, and the doubters. He also drops some bars about the dangerous city he hails from and his quick temper. While I vibe with a bunch of different elements of this track (especially the beat), it’s the hook that truly makes me a major fan.
1. WHISKEY (Ft. Morgan Wallen)
My n***a Morgan Wallen killed this s**t!
I love MoneyBagg Yo’s performances on this album, but honestly, Morgan Wallen’s performance on “WHISKEY” stands out the most. Sounding like a country Michael Jackson with tobacco in his mouth, Morgan delivers a passionate hook about dealing with a woman who’s edgier than the players on the Chicago Sky. His verse, in turn, portrays him as someone who’s found a partner capable of sending his libido into overdrive. As much as I admire Morgan’s contributions, especially with it being paired with this frantic beat that I love, don’t sleep on MoneyBagg’s very solid opening verse. It’s not quite whiskey, but it’s definitely some strong rum.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
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RGM RATING
(C+) (77%)
When everything is said and done, I believe MoneyBagg Yo will be remembered as one of my favorite trap rappers ever. While his subject matter and beat choices might not be groundbreaking, there’s something about his hard-hitting style of rapping that has always grabbed my attention. In SPEAK NOW, MoneyBagg delivers a collection of trap bangers that are undeniably catchy and have serious replay value.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: MoneyBagg Yo’s music is tailor-made for black clubs with speakers with more muscles than The Rock, largely due to his consistently chosen production. With SPEAK NOW, that trend continues. Each beat features the quintessential trap elements—plenty of bass, lively tempos, and sometimes menacing undertones. While I’m personally on board with this formula, I can understand how some might feel that the beats sound like some s**t he’s been rhyming over since his early days in the game.
It’s always interesting to track the evolution of artists by revisiting their discographies. In the case of MoneyBagg Yo, one might notice a consistent tone and style from his debut album to his latest work. His confidence, hooks, and content seem largely unchanged over the years. However, there are subtle shifts; he appears wiser and more affluent, which is a natural progression with age.
I absolutely love that MoneyBagg Yo opted for minimal guest appearances on this album. It showcases his confidence in carrying a project solo, and it allows his unique style to shine without competing with others. However, credit is due to Rob49 for his stellar raps on “BUSSIN,” Chris Brown for delivering an impressive hook, Morgan Wallen for his surprising and excellent contribution, and Lil Durk for his solid performance on “GANGSTAS RELATE.” These collaborations add depth to the album without overshadowing MoneyBagg Yo’s presence.
MoneyBagg Yo consistently aims for home runs with his tracks, and when they connect, he earns recognition as one of hip-hop’s favorites. However, when they miss the mark, they simply result in outs. With SPEAK NOW, I noticed a few home runs, but what’s even more impressive is the presence of several singles, doubles, and triples.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
