The Kid LAROI fully commits to pop stardom with the release of “BEFORE I FORGET (DELUXE).”
STREAM
TOP 3 SONGS
3. I CONDEMN
I’m very biased here, but I was introduced to The Kid LAROI when he was doing hip-hop music, so it makes perfect sense that I gravitate toward his hip-hop sound. “I CONDEMN” is exactly that lane.
The track is driven by chaotic production with shattered-glass textures and video game-like elements, the kind of sound that would make Playboi Carti and company have manic episodes. Thankfully, The Kid LAROI glides over it with ease, using a smooth vocal tone that cuts through the noise… Literally.
Lyrically, he calls out fake friends who only show up when they need something, while also letting a woman he’s f**king with know he can give her whatever she likes, on some T.I.P. s**t.
The chorus is outstanding, and the blend of hip-hop edge with softer vocals lands perfectly.
2. MOVE YOUR BODY
Do I love the production we get on “MOVE YOUR BODY”? Not really. It feels a bit predictable and slightly lazy, and that is probably the only part of the track that does not land for me.
“MOVE YOUR BODY” once again leans into Michael-inspired territory, but still manages to deliver a fun, catchy chorus with vocals designed to melt your ears. The lyrics are carefree and built to get anyone listening to bust a dance move (Make sure it’s a good one given how bad the economy is right now).
At the same time, The Kid LAROI adds a bit of edge to the track, throwing in moments of aggression that cut through the softness. That contrast gives the song some extra bite when it needs it.
Overall, this is one of those infectious, easy-to-play bangers that sticks with you regardless of your affiliations: Bloods, Crips; Democrats, Republicans; Black, White; Memphis, Nashville… everyone.
1. PIECES
Some tracks sound like hits the moment you press play, and “PIECES” is one of them.
“PIECES” carries shades of Michael Jackson, hints of The Weeknd, and maybe even a little Jason Weaver flavor (Did I go too far with the Jason Weaver comparison?). The point is this: The Kid LAROI’s range on this track is ridiculous.
He spends a good portion of the song sounding calm and controlled, then gradually turns up the passion as it progresses. Lyrically, he tells a woman he is involved with that he is done pretending everything is fine and ready to move on, while she is left trying to figure out what just happened.
The chorus is absolutely elite, and the production carries a slick, polished vibe that could refresh any broken-hearted soul standing in the middle of a nightclub.
SONG BY SONG RATING
1. BACK 2 LOVE (3.5/5)
2. HOLD STILL (4/5)
3. I CONDEMN (4.5/5)
4. QUIT YOU (4/5)
5. WEAKEST FEELING (4/5)
6. PIECES (5/5)
7. MOVE YOUR BODY (4.5/5)
8. ECHOES (4/5)
9. DYING ON THIS HILL (4/5)
RGM RATING
(83%)
I’m not sure how many people have realized this, but The Kid LAROI has gone through several transformations over the years. What I respect is that it feels rooted in his love for music.
That said, on BEFORE I FORGET (DELUXE), he leans heavily into extremely palatable commercial pop. We are talking the kind of music that should be in rotation at every bar in America (Including the ones that refuse to play NBA games because they say the league is too woke). Whether he is diving into disco-inspired textures or sleek dancefloor production, LAROI shows a clear intent to craft sticky melodies and present himself as a full-fledged pop star.
Vocally, he takes things up a few notches here. His delivery is cleaner, more controlled, and more versatile within individual tracks. There is a stronger command overall, with fewer voice cracks, less hip-hop leaning influence, and a sharper focus on becoming the pop superstar he clearly wants to be. He succeeds in that mission, although part of me would rather see him commit fully and consistently, without dipping back into Jersey Club experiments or Playboi Carti-adjacent production styles.
There are three main reasons this project works for me. First, it never gets old hearing LAROI navigate relationships. Second, the choruses are genuinely excellent. Third, his performances show real care for his craft and a clear desire to become the megastar he is already on the verge of becoming.
I understand why some people might not connect with it due to its commercial sheen, but calling it bad would miss the point entirely.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
Discover more from RGM
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
