Redman drops “Muddy Waters Too” 27 years after the original project.
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TOP 5
5. Dynomite (Ft. Sheek Louch)
DYNOMITE!
I tried my hardest not to like a song dedicated to JJ from Good Times, but here we are. The first thing that hooked me was the beat—it gave me serious “What We Do” by Freeway vibes. From there, Redman’s self-congratulatory bars felt refreshing, the hook he delivered was surprisingly entertaining, and Sheek’s verse, with its sharp flow and competitive edge, brought everything home in an impressive way. It’s a track that sneaks up on you.
4. Booyaka Shot
Booyaka Shot > Shots Of Barcadi 151.
Eminem has always credited Redman as a major influence on his career. While their rap mechanics differ significantly, there’s no denying the shared cartoonish flair in their music. That said, “Booyaka Shot” feels like a track tailor-made for Eminem. The beat is something you can easily imagine Em tearing apart, and Redman’s ridiculous punchlines and carefree lyrics add to the playful, off-the-wall vibe that draws the comparison. Beyond the Eminem parallels, the track stands on its own with a fun and infectious chorus.
3. Lite It Up (Ft. Naughty By Nature, Queen Latifah, Shaquille O’ Neal, Rah Digga, Lords Of The Underground, Lady Luck, Artifacts, Heather Storm)
I’m sure the studio smelled like vapor rub with all these damn oldheads in one room.
New Jersey might not be the first place that comes to mind when discussing hip-hop powerhouses, but if you dig deep enough, you’ll find a wealth of talent that proves otherwise. While the Garden State hasn’t been as prominent in recent years, its past contributions to the genre are undeniable. “Lite It Up” is a testament to this legacy, featuring an all-star lineup of New Jersey’s finest.
Over yet another reimagined version of the iconic “Rapper’s Delight” beat, we’re treated to standout verses from legends like Queen Latifah, Shaquille O’Neal, and Lady Luck. The track is a masterclass in pure, unfiltered rapping, showcasing the lyrical prowess and distinct styles that these artists bring to the table.
2. Don’t Wanna C Me Rich
I can hear Eric Sermon’s influence on this track.
The production on this track deserves a standing ovation—it’s smooth, jazzy, and carries a nice, steady tempo. At first, you might think Redman’s wild, outlandish style would clash with such a refined backdrop, but it actually works surprisingly well. There’s something undeniably cool about hearing someone drop a bold “f**k everyone who doesn’t want to see me win” in a setting that feels formal and classy. Honestly, it’s the kind of vibe I’d bring if you stuck me in a room full of snobby award-givers.
1. Lalala (Ft. Method Man)
Who else cried tears of joy listening to this track?
If you’re a hip-hop fan, the names Method Man and Redman better come up when discussing dynamic duos in the game. Their chemistry and sheer joy on the mic were unmatched during their prime. In “Lalala,” Meth and Red come together once again, delivering a hard-hitting banger filled with gritty flows, weed-inspired references, and some aggressive, violent bars. For newcomers, this track might not immediately stand out as groundbreaking, but for those who grew up vibing to their music, it’s a nostalgic gem that might just feel like one of the best things you’ve heard all year (OK, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration—but only a little).
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
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RGM GRADE
(71%)
Redman’s music truly is an acquired taste.
There’s a category of legendary rappers who often don’t get the widespread credit they deserve, and Redman is undoubtedly one of them. While I wouldn’t place him in a top 25 rappers list, his influence on hip-hop is undeniable, cementing him as a legendary figure. For those unfamiliar with his style or still trying to grasp his genius, Muddy Waters Too offers a comprehensive crash course.
This album showcases everything fans have loved about Redman for years: a weed-loving, adventure-seeking, wildly animated emcee with a penchant for outlandish humor and raw confidence. He dives into wacky stories, questionable escapades, and his undeniable belief in his status as one of the most respected rappers alive. Interestingly, he also takes a moment to reflect on the past, yearning for hip-hop to return to its roots.
What’s remarkable about Muddy Waters Too is how timeless Redman sounds. Decades later, his delivery is still packed with animated energy, unconventional and rebellious flows, goofy yet clever punchlines, and antics that feel quintessentially “Redman.” The production is surprisingly versatile, spanning old-school beats to club-ready tracks, proving his ability to adapt while staying true to his essence.
Ultimately, this album isn’t for everyone, primarily because it doesn’t take itself too seriously. For those unfamiliar with Redman’s unique approach to making music, it might be hard to appreciate its charm. But for fans and those willing to embrace its carefree spirit, Muddy Waters Too is far from the misstep it might initially seem. It’s pure Redman—and that’s the point.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
