The people keeping you together might need someone to check on them, too.

I’ll take a technically sharp rapper any day, but give me one I can relate to and I’m really locked in. That’s what Tay Toe does for me. His verses feel lived-in, and on “IMA MESS,” he and Parker Jack turn that honesty into something bigger than a typical love song.

Kid Hazel gives them a beat that mixes soulful warmth with a drill knock. It’s an interesting place to talk about faith and loyalty, but the contrast works. Tay and Parker are thankful for the people who help keep them grounded. They also realize those people are fighting battles of their own, which makes the gratitude feel more thoughtful.

Tay handles the melodic, vulnerable side of the track. Parker Jack brings a stronger punch to his verse, pushing the energy forward while staying connected to the song’s emotion. I like how the two styles play off each other. You can hear why Tay thought they would work well together.

There’s something refreshing about a record that admits everybody in a relationship might need help sometimes. Nobody here sounds perfect or claims to be. “IMA MESS” is catchy enough to replay for its sound, but the care behind its words gives it staying power.

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.