I knew something was off about that damn album.

One of the more puzzling moments in hip-hop this year was the release of Lil Uzi Vert’s Eternal Atake 2. Uzi is typically known for crafting solid projects, but this album felt disjointed, rushed, and slightly off-kilter. Even the promotional rollout raised eyebrows, featuring a strange teaser video styled like a rogue 1970s TV game show.

Speculation swirled that Eternal Atake 2 was merely a contractual obligation to fulfill Uzi’s deal with Atlantic Records, potentially explaining its lack of cohesion and polish. DJ Akademiks later claimed that this wasn’t Uzi’s “real album” and hinted that a more refined and impactful project is on the way, promising it will set the bar much higher.

Akademiks talking about how he heard Lil Uzi Vert’s “real album” is fire ??

Also confirming that he dropped Ea 2 to get out of his contract with Atlantic . pic.twitter.com/E8VtcHyOiB

— ???®? (@_michael513) December 1, 2024

I wouldn’t be surprised if this type of situation happens more often than fans realize. Do I like it? Not really. However, for artists to create their best work, they need the freedom to express themselves without feeling boxed in. If Atlantic was limiting Uzi creatively, I can’t blame him for wanting out. Sometimes, you have to prioritize your artistry over pleasing a label. That said, Uzi’s next album has to hit harder than that Mac and Cheese from Thanksgiving a few days ago.

Are you a fan of artists releasing throwaway albums? Let us know in the comments section.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.