Lil Baby – WHAM (Deluxe Edition) (Album Review)

Lil Baby adds four more tracks to “WHAM.”


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SONGS RANKED

4. Running This Shit

What is this chorus?

“Running This Shit” is one of the most unique tracks on WHAM. The bass-heavy, old-school-inspired beat carries a hint of horror movie vibes blended with classic Gucci Mane energy, making it instantly intriguing. However, the unorthodox chorus is a mixed bag—it flows oddly and leans into overly basic moments (OK, OK, OK?), which might divide listeners. On the other hand, Lil Baby’s verses stick to his signature relentless flow, with a touch of mumbling and lyrics centered around stiff-arming women for money. Personally, it’s not my favorite track, but I can definitely see it resonating with some fans.

“I don’t care what he said; he’s a rat still.” This is definitely a Gunna diss, right?

3. 99 (with Future)

Lil Baby and Future decided to run it back.

Right now, the most-played track on WHAM is “Dum Dumb & Dumber” featuring Future and Young Thug. One of the reasons it resonates so strongly with fans is its punchy, hard-hitting sound—a vibe that hip-hop lovers can’t get enough of. Lil Baby seems to recognize the winning formula, as he’s followed up with another powerhouse collaboration with Future called “99.”

The track boasts production reminiscent of late-2000s Jeezy, creating a gritty backdrop for Baby and Future to trade verses. The duo dives into themes of resilience, street loyalty, player lifestyles, and their history with the hustle. Baby’s consistent cadence meshes seamlessly with the beat, while Future delivers a cold, detached performance that feels like it was plucked straight out of New Jack City.

2. Idol

Lil Baby had the album of the century in “My Turn,” so he’s definitely your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper’s idol.

Lil Baby has become a rapper you listen to primarily for his lyrics, and that’s especially evident on “Idol.” While the track doesn’t offer much innovation in terms of style—featuring a familiar rap delivery from Baby and a dramatic yet unremarkable trap beat—his words stand out.

In “Idol,” he reflects on distancing himself from peers who didn’t support him (“We ain’t f**kin’ with them other n****s, they didn’t like us”), his disappointment in snitches (“Bro said too much, he gave the whole hood a black eye”), the authenticity in his raps, and his past hustles (“After school, I was sellin’ narcotics, Tired of the same ho, no party, We cut buddy off the chip, no money”).

This is one of those tracks where Baby reminds listeners that he’s cut from a different cloth, highlighting the grit and experiences that set him apart.

1. My Shawty

Lil Baby brings out his vulnerable side in “My Shawty.”

The standout tracks on WHAM are undoubtedly the ones dedicated to women, and the deluxe edition’s best track continues that trend. “My Shawty” is a masterfully crafted song featuring an elegant beat with just enough punch to grab the attention of the killers. Lil Baby delivers an exceptional verse, leaning into a gentle rap style that perfectly complements the heartfelt lyrics about the strong connection he shares with a woman who values the simple things in life. All in all, this track is an instant download for me.


SONG-BY-SONG RATING

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RGM RATING

(70%) (Extended Version Tracks Only)

The extended version of WHAM doesn’t bring much new to the table. It features the same militant trap beats, mumbled flows, lyrics centered on staying true to street rules and chasing money, and formulaic hooks we’ve come to expect. However, I’d strongly recommend giving “My Shawty” a listen. It’s a standout track and one of the best I’ve heard from Lil Baby overall.


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