Central Cee is doing some major numbers in the states.
The biggest album release from last week was, without a doubt, Central Cee’s CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS. That’s not to say there weren’t other notable drops—Jordan Adetunji’s A Jaguar’s Dream and FKA Twigs’ EUSEXUA also commanded attention—but Cee’s release felt like a moment. Honestly, it’s the first album from a UK rapper that made me drop everything I was doing to listen.
According to reports, CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS is set to debut at #9 on the Billboard charts next week and is projected to sell over 34,000 units. This milestone is historic, marking Central Cee as the first UK rapper to ever break into the US Billboard Top 10.
“CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” Debuts At #9 With 34,000 Units Sold
Central Cee's 'CANT RUSH GREATNESS' is projected to sell 34.5K first week with a #9 debut ?
— Kurrco (@Kurrco) January 28, 2025
This would make him the first UK rapper to chart inside the Top 10 on the Billboard 200 ? pic.twitter.com/tYxpzh3VIl
In my humble opinion, Central Cee is the closest thing the world will see to another Drake. Both share a light-skinned appeal, the ability to effortlessly switch between hard-hitting bars and melancholic reflections, and an undeniable knack for saying some cool, quotable s**t in nearly every line they spit. While CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS isn’t Cee’s first album, it feels like the one that will finally open the door to wider U.S. consumption. And once he’s inside? With his next few projects, I fully expect him to set up the drywall, kitchen tables, and couches—establishing himself as a mainstay in the global music landscape.
How do you feel about Central Cee’s new album? Let us know in the comments section.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
