Quando Rondo opens up about his life on wax with “Here For A Reason.“
STREAM
TOP 5 SONGS
5. Street Love
So, there are people out there that are actively seeking “street love?” (Interesting)
I don’t think I’ve ever heard Quando Rondo in the kind of bag he’s in on “Street Love.” Dedicated to his ride-or-die chick, likely from Metro housing, Quando fully taps into his crooner side, delivering a passionate vocal performance that perfectly complements the bass-heavy R&B production driving the track. What stands out the most is the chorus—dynamic and packed with incredibly infectious melodies that elevate the song to another level.
4. Life Goes On
“Life Goes On” has “All My Life” in a chokehold.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: adding a children’s chorus to a track is an automatic win. “Life Goes On” features this powerful element. Surrounding the chorus, Quando Rondo passionately raps about his losses, his journey to becoming a Muslim, and his disdain for the rampant black-on-black crime in his community. While I’m not entirely sold on his individual contributions, the song’s unique and heartfelt nature makes it one of the standout tracks on the project.
3. Grow Up
You can’t call yourself a grown-up and then use the phrase “growed up.”
The first song that came to mind when I pressed play on “Grow Up” was Gucci Mane’s classic hit “Lemonade,” thanks to the similar frantic piano notes that drive both tracks. As for Quando Rondo, he delivers intoxicating melodic raps, reflecting on his major come-up and the lavish life he enjoys today. This track resonates for two key reasons: Quando genuinely sounds like he’s in a good mood, and it’s undeniably one of his catchiest offerings to date.
2. Rollin (Ft. Winter Rae)
Winter, blink two times if you’re in danger.
I love it when rappers step outside their comfort zones with their music. That said, Quando stepped so far out of the box in “Rollin” that he might need to call an Uber to find his way back. The track features an alternative hip-hop sound you’d expect someone like iann dior to crush, but instead, we’re treated to a youthful, heartfelt vocal performance from featured guest Winter Rae. What’s great is that you still get the same Quando we all know and love—he just feels a little more vulnerable and almost Disney-like in this setting.
1. Could’ve Been Me
Does this song mean Quando Rondo thinks he’s the next 50 Cent?
“Could’ve Been Me“ cleverly flips 50 Cent’s iconic “Many Men“ in a fresh and impactful way. Borrowing part of the original chorus, Quando uses the track as a platform to address the many people who would rather see him six feet under. And trust me—there’s no shortage of them.
Quando Rondo is completely in his element on this track. Backed by a riveting trap beat, he masterfully blends grit with raw passion, pairing violent lyrics with introspective lines about his paranoia. If the hate wasn’t so strong, I think most would agree this is an undeniably exceptional track.
RATINGS FOR EVERY SONG
Become an RGM+ Member to view this section.
To discover the ratings we’ve assigned to each track on this album, subscribe below.
RGM RATING
(C) (75%)
Production:
Quando Rondo has a clear affinity for emotional trap beats, and honestly, I can’t blame him. His emotional deliveries and painful storytelling align perfectly with the backdrops. On Here For A Reason, the production leans heavily into this style, and I have zero issues with that.
The Performances:
Quando Rondo pours his truths into his music, using it as a powerful outlet to process and share his experiences. Throughout this album, he delves into the trauma he’s endured, the battles he’s ready to fight, and the personal growth he’s achieved. He also reflects on his Muslim faith and the harsh realities he witnesses in the streets. While his vocal delivery primarily leans on a dramatic, almost whiny melodic rap style, I appreciate the moments when he amps up his energy and brings more grit to his performance.
Guest Appearances:
The album features just one guest appearance: Winter Rae. While her contribution is solid, I couldn’t help but feel the absence of NBA YoungBoy, whose collaborations with Quando Rondo are consistently dynamic and hard-hitting. Their chemistry has proven unstoppable in the past, so it’s a bit disappointing not to see him here. That said, given NBA YoungBoy’s current legal situation, his absence is understandable.
What Would I Change About This Album?
The album is definitely listenable, but the audio quality could be improved. While the tracks come through just fine, better mastering would have taken them to the next level. With cleaner production and more polished sound, this album could have been truly phenomenal.
The Biggest Reason You Should Listen To This Album:
Every sentiment Quando Rondo expresses on this album feels deeply authentic to his own experience. It’s heartbreaking to witness a young Black man face such struggles, but in doing so, he’s sharing real-life stories that resonate with so many others.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
