Hip-hop fans, grab your buckets and nets, because two of California’s most legendary producers are swimming into uncharted waters together.

Hit-Boy and The Alchemist — two producers who’ve built careers out of defining eras of hip-hop — are joining forces for a new album titled Goldfish, set to drop October 24th. This isn’t just another producer-collab moment; this is two Grammy-winning sound architects deciding to step inside each other’s creative worlds. What makes Goldfish extra intriguing is that both Hit-Boy and Alchemist are known to grab the mic occasionally, so fans are curious: will this be a full-on lyrical sparring match, or a lavish beat exhibition with bars sprinkled on top?

The project’s lead single, “Business Manager,” gives us a solid clue. Both producers trade verses over what sounds like the soundtrack to a billionaire’s brunch — luxurious, smooth, but still dripping with that West Coast cool. The chemistry is undeniable; it’s like Dr. Dre and Madlib decided to drop the egos and just have fun.

Hit-Boy’s recent run of producer-rapper projects — from Surf or Drown to his King’s Disease collaborations — proves he’s just as comfortable behind the mic as he is behind the boards. Meanwhile, The Alchemist has quietly built a cult following for his minimal yet menacing flows over cinematic loops. Put those two together, and Goldfish might be the most elegant-sounding rap album about money, hustle, and legacy we’ve heard in years.

Whether they’re rapping or producing, both Hit-Boy and Alchemist are clearly swimming in their own lane — and we’re lucky enough to watch the waves.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.