NBA YoungBoy makes his furious return with “I Just Got A Lot On My Shoulders.”
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TOP 5
5. Missing Everything
When NBA YoungBoy sings like he’s at a karaoke >.
I’m one of those who think NBA YoungBoy truly shines when he taps into his melodic side, and he does just that in “Missing Everything.” The track features an atmospheric, bass-heavy beat that sets a contemplative mood, allowing YoungBoy to pour out his emotions. He sings about his unwavering star power, loyalty to loved ones, rebellious ways, and the bodies he’s caught (Yikes). While the song’s structure feels somewhat disjointed and could be more cohesive, there are undeniable moments where his heartfelt vocals demand attention.
4. Cook Dope
Having your partner assist with cooking dope has to be the ultimate display of trust and loyalty.
In “Cook Dope,” NBA YoungBoy does a little bit of flexing, a little bit of threatening, and a little bit of brainwashing, admitting to getting his chick to get in the kitchen and cook dope. Like, if she didn’t decide to walk away after hearing him ask if she wanted to cook dope, I don’t know what would make her walk away.
Do you know the first thing that caught my attention about this track? The hook reminded me of The Lox’s “f**k the real s**t” part from “We Gon Make It.” I thought that was dope. I also like how we get a sly version of NBA YoungBoy in the track. As a matter of fact, it almost sounds like he’s rapping with a smirk on his face.
3. Tears of War (Bonus)
Every once in a while, NBA YoungBoy shows you his pen isn’t that bad.
NBA YoungBoy holds nothing back in “tears of war.” In the track, which is more than five minutes long, he talks about all the bodies he has (Yikes), not wanting other dudes’ chicks, sliding on folks, and keeping his feelings disguised. He also shouts out those who love him, like Quando Rondo, while practically dismissing those he feels don’t love him, like Birdman.
NBA YoungBoy knows music. “tears of war” flips Rick Ross’s “Tears of Joy” beat from Teflon Don. While I’m not a huge fan of the rap style NBA YoungBoy uses in his verses, I absolutely love the passionate hook he lays down. I would replay this track to listen to the hook.
2. Get It
Some people still play with YoungBoy?
This is the kind of ignorant music by NBA YoungBoy that I genuinely enjoy. In “Get It,” he reminds us—yet again—that he won’t hesitate to take things to a dangerous level if provoked. Thankfully, he finds new and creative ways to express this, keeping things fresh and engaging. What stands out about this song is its signature Louisiana, jungle-like sound, a chorus that grabs you, and a flow that balances an energetic, animal-like delivery with more relaxed moments. YoungBoy’s use of the phrase “get the stepping” alone makes me a fan.
1. Versace Shades
How much do Versace shades go for these days?
NBA YoungBoy starts this album with the perfect track: “Versace Shades,” a lively banger that sets the tone for what follows. In this song, he reflects on the challenges he’s conquered, expresses his deep connection to his firearm, and flaunts his wealth. The track’s bouncy beat, infused with Louisiana energy, complements YoungBoy’s ability to seamlessly shift between sly and murderous moments. All in all, I like the balance we get on this track.
SONG BY SONG RATINGS
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RGM RATING
(D) (64%)
Will NBA Youngboy’s style translate in 2025? Hmm…
I Just Got A Lot On My Shoulders is quintessentially chaotic, echoing the erratic nature of both his artistry and personal life. The album offers listeners a multifaceted view of the rapper: introspective and vulnerable, hurt and vengeful, and, at times, menacingly aggressive. However, this project stands out in that it doesn’t lean heavily into his signature “Grim Reaper” tracks, where he delivers raw, violent energy, nor does it dive deep into more contemplative, emotionally charged territory. Instead, the album feels like a mix of these states, landing somewhere in between.
While there are glimpses of YoungBoy’s talent, particularly in some standout hooks and the occasional thoughtful rap verse, many tracks come across as disorganized and underdeveloped. This scattered approach leaves the impression that the project is untamed and inconsistent in quality. Yet, for those who approach his music as an experience rather than just a listening session, I Just Got A Lot On My Shoulders might resonate with its raw, unfiltered snapshots of his world. It’s not so much about enjoying it as it is about engaging with it on its own chaotic terms.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
