It's been 11 years since Joey's debut album released globally—safe to say it's still my favorite personal album from Joey and arguably his best album to date. Joey Badass's debut album, "1999," is a remarkable body of work that effortlessly pays esteem to the golden era of hip-hop while infusing it with a fresh and modern energy.
Produced in 2012, this project solidified Joey Badass as a rising star in the rap scene and showcased his incredible talent as both an underground lyricist and also a storyteller. "1999" takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the '90s, capturing the essence of that era with its boom-bap beats, soulful samples, and even raw lyricism.
Joey Badass effortlessly flows over the production, delivering intricate rhymes and thought-provoking verses that display wisdom beyond his years. Moreover, he was merely 17 years of age—marking his youth when his debut album released. One of the standout aspects of the album is Joey Badass's ability to paint vivid pictures with his words. He tackles a range of topics, from personal struggles to social commentary, all while maintaining a level of authenticity and honesty that is both refreshing and relatable. Tracks such as "Survival Tactics", "Third Eye Shit," "World Domination," and even "Waves" showcase his storytelling prowess and lyrical dexterity, leaving a profound impact on the listener.
The production on "1999" is a masterclass in
capturing the essence of classic hip-hop. The beats, predominantly handled by producers like Chuck Strangers and Statik Selektah, incorporate dusty samples and boom-bap drums that transport listeners back to the heyday of the genre.
The cohesive sound of the album creates a seamless listening experience from start to finish.
What sets "1999" apart is its ability to appeal to both old-school hip-hop heads and younger listeners. Joey Badass pays homage to his influences while also adding his own unique flavor. This album serves as a reminder of the timeless qualities of hip-hop and its ability to evolve without losing its roots. Though 1999 was Joey's debut album, it had a remarkable impact on the hip hop community and also the underground scene.
Even though Joey isn't as versatile as he is today, he arguably had his best album to date, meaning I'd have to give him roughly a 9/10 on this album.
Personal Favorites:
1. World Domination
2. Daily Routine
3. Waves
4. Survival Tactics
5. Third Eye Shit (if it was shorter, it would likely be top three for me).
Very cool