Joyner Lucas proves his versatility and vision on “ADHD 2.”
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TOP 5
5. Active (Ft. Big Sean)
Joyner Lucas kicks off this track with a thought-provoking line: he says he chose dinner with JAY-Z over a cash payout so he could learn how to become successful. That single statement sets the tone, as he goes on to call out rappers who claim to be in the “Big 3,” pointing out that too many talented artists are unfairly excluded from that conversation. Honestly, he and Big Sean—who also features on this song—are as close to being in that elite group as it gets.
Big Sean pulls up with his signature cool, effortlessly addressing exes who left him for lesser men and flexing about rocking shows that feel like full-blown ACDC concerts. The two artists eventually come together on a rage-ready, ridiculously catchy hook that ties the track together perfectly. One of the most compelling aspects of the song is its dual-beat structure: the first half is hyped and energetic, while the second flips into a darker, more brooding tone, darker than Khaman Malauch. All in all, this is a complete, high-octane banger from two rappers who sound hungry, focused, and entirely in sync.
4. Time Is Money (Ft. DaBaby, Fireboy DML & J Balvin)
“Time Is Money” features one of the most unexpected lineups ever—DaBaby, Fireboy DML, and J Balvin—each bringing something distinct to a genre-blending banger that fuses thunderous trap production with global flair. From the first beat drop, the song sounds like it’s ready to obliterate weak-ass sound systems—especially the ones from Radio Shack.
Joyner sets the tone with his signature high-speed, hyper-articulate flow, flexing on haters he refuses to acknowledge and reflecting on the power his fame holds over women. DaBaby follows with his trademark swagger, tossing out lines about freaky flings and shaky relationships in a way only he can. Fireboy DML steps in with an infectious hook that lightens the mood, balancing the bravado with a smooth, melodic take on dancing and guarding his time. J Balvin closes out the guest list with a Spanish verse full of punch and precision, his rapid-fire delivery adding international heat to the track. Joyner then returns for a second verse—raw and unfiltered—focused on loyalty and lust-fueled energy.
The chemistry among all four artists is undeniable, and while the song leans heavily into familiar themes—clout, women, and flexing—it’s hard to deny its sheer entertainment value.
3. New Sofa (Ft. Ty Dolla $ign)
I swear, it was tough choosing between this track and “Hate Me” for the top 5 list, but I ultimately went with “New Sofa” because of the production. The beat has a soulful, Vultures-like vibe—especially when the organ kicks in—that I absolutely love.
Ty Dolla $ign really gets a chance to bloom here in a way he doesn’t always get to on features, bringing the track home beautifully toward the end. Meanwhile, Joyner rides the bouncy beat effortlessly, channeling a bit of a J. Cole vibe, having fun with his delivery, and setting himself apart in the process. This is just a laid-back banger that SHOULD resonate with you.
2. Riot
I just feel like “Riot” is the most impressive track on the album. Joyner Lucas, all on his own, delivers a Drake-like, exhilarating chorus that feels incredibly unique. He also takes several moments to showcase his most aggressive delivery and his effortless ability to switch flows—some fiery, others straightforward enough to follow easily.
Lyrically, he taps into his competitive side, making it clear that if he’s pressed by his enemies, he’s ready to go full Elon Musk on government employees. Overall, the song is explosive, relatable, and refreshingly different in a way that makes it stand out from the rest of the project.
1. One Of Them
In “One Of Them,” Joyner sounds as sharp and competitive as ever. He takes aim at rappers trying to size him up, brags about his success and luxuries, and reflects on being mentally miles ahead of his peers since high school. With his usual mix of self-awareness and swagger, Joyner makes it clear he’s still got something to prove.
The production? Electric. It’s the kind of cinematic, high-stakes beat you could imagine soundtracking a Marvel fight scene. Joyner attacks it with relentless tenacity, spitting fiery bars as frequently as Laura Loomer fires off chaotic tweets.
If you’re a fan of his lyrical intensity, bold energy, and immersive storytelling, “One Of Them” is going to be in heavy rotation. This is Joyner Lucas in peak form.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
1. Family Therapy (Skit) (N/A)
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RGM RATING
(82%)
From a production standpoint, you won’t find many projects with such a wide variety of cinematic rap beats. The sonic diversity on this album keeps things fresh from track to track, and Joyner proves time and again that he can rap over anything. I think that’s one of his superpowers.
What’s especially interesting is Joyner’s approach to lyricism on this project. He doesn’t rely on clever punchlines or abstract metaphors; instead, he delivers his bars in a direct, impactful way that gets straight to the point. He raps about his rise to fame, his hunger to stay competitive, his romantic entanglements, and the fruits of his success with a clarity that cuts through the noise. There’s storytelling, there’s honesty, and above all, there’s passion. Joyner sounds like someone who knows exactly who he is and what he wants to say—and he makes sure you hear him loud and clear.
When it comes to the guest appearances, there are hits and misses. At times, the features feel a bit crowded, like they dilute Joyner’s presence on his own record. That said, a few features really shine—Big Sean delivers an exceptional verse that blends reflection and charisma, T-Pain adds his signature melodic flair, and DaBaby brings his energy in a way that complements the vibe. On the flip side, appearances from blackbear and Chris Brown felt out of place.
When it’s all said and done, ADHD 2 is a highly entertaining, layered listen that feels unmistakably Joyner.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
