Kodak Black plays the Grinch who has a “Gift For The Streets.”
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TOP 5 SONGS
5. Nightmare Before Christmas
Did Kodak just say he hates n***as like a Nazi?
Does Kodak Black yap in “Nightmare Before Christmas?” Yes, he does. In his verses, he covers everything from his unflushable diamonds to his thotty women and the people who hate on him. But why do I think the song is solid? Because it delivers a raw, unfiltered version of Kodak, spitting heartfelt bars over an emotional, Drake-inspired beat. I like when Kodak spits over Drake like beats.
4. Same Altima (Ft. Juvenile & B.G.)
My n***a, is that Juvenile?
I love that Kodak Black managed to bring both Juvenile and B.G. onto this album—it’s been a while since I’ve heard from them, and their presence is a nostalgic treat. Even better, the tracks Kodak paired them with feel like the perfect fit, especially “Same Altima.”
The song carries a melancholic vibe that complements the unique styles of all three artists. Kodak’s chill yet gritty bars set the tone, Juvenile’s tongue-twisting flows and commanding vocals add an electrifying energy, and B.G.’s rowdy yet laid-back demeanor rounds it out beautifully.
Lyrically, the dynamic between the three is stellar. Juvenile and B.G. embody the wise veterans who’ve seen it all, while Kodak plays the younger voice, navigating and processing what he’s witnessing. The contrast in perspective makes the track not only impactful but also layered and compelling.
3. Shit Show (Ft. Veeze & Lil Yachty)
One of these guys stole my car and did donuts with it.
“Shit Show” is a posse cut that brings together a group of artists who don’t exactly sound like they’re taking the craft of music too seriously—but in this case, that carefree attitude works surprisingly well. The bouncy production, with its lively tempo, sets the stage perfectly for their contrasting styles.
Kodak Black kicks things off with a high-energy verse packed with fight talk and plenty of threats, showing off his signature boldness. Veeze follows with a laid-back, almost lethargic verse where he touches on confrontation and drug references in his own unique style. Finally, Lil Yachty closes it out with a cool, somewhat hazy verse, delivering smooth flows as he brushes off his haters and critics effortlessly.
The combination of these distinct approaches makes for an interesting dynamic, and Kodak’s solid hook ties it all together nicely. It’s a chaotic but entertaining track that works in its own messy way.
2. Short Timing (Ft. B.G.)
A Kodak Black track produced by D.A. Doman that features B.G. is random as hell.
In the opening portion of Kodak Black’s verse in “Short Timing,” he genuinely sounds exhausted, reflecting on the struggles that have left him drained. His delivery matches the theme, coming across as fatigued and introspective. However, as the track progresses, Kodak picks up the energy, transitioning into a more defiant and battle-ready tone that pairs well with the track’s hard-hitting, mechanical production. He also delivers a sly and sharp verse that stands out.
As for B.G., his verse complements Kodak’s with similar themes, touching on his time in jail and the street codes he lives by. His gritty delivery adds authenticity and depth, making for a compelling collaboration.
1. Go Get Em (Ft. Rob49)
I would pay to listen to a Kodak Black and Rob49 joint project.
You want serious Kodak Black? Well, you get him in “Go Get Em.” Backed by this piano-driven, elegant trap beat, the Pompano Beach rapper hits us with an excellent verse in which he spits with great confidence and assertivness, mixed with wise lyrics that confirm he knows how to handle unruly women and uncomfortable consequences. As for Rob49, he closes the song out with a gritty verse in which he hits us with a bit of a complex flow and talks about dealing with shaky individuals. His verse definitely makes the track a lot more trill.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
RGM RATING
(70%)
For me, the main thing I want from Kodak Black is for him to take music seriously—because when he does, he proves just how talented he is. On Gifts For The Streets, it feels like Kodak brings that focus for the most part. He opens up about his struggles with drug habits and relationship issues while experimenting with serious rap styles. His flows are consistent, his vocals are cleaner and more polished, and the beats align well with his signature sound. Why can’t he take his regular releases this seriously?
That said, the project overall feels a bit too raw for my taste, leaving it just shy of reaching its full potential.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.