When Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) was cementing its legacy in the mid-2010s, Kendrick Lamar was the prophet, Schoolboy Q was the powerhouse, and Jay Rock was the foundation. But Ab-Soul? Ab-Soul was the philosopher-king, the "Black Lip Pastor" who brought a heady, esoteric energy to the camp.
The A$AP Mob, a collective of artists from Harlem, New York, has been a dominant force in the hip-hop scene since the early 2010s. Two of the most prominent members of this collective are A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg, who have both made significant contributions to the group's success. In 2014, they collaborated on a mixtape titled "These Days...", which was released to critical acclaim and commercial success. This essay will explore the significance of "These Days...", its impact on the hip-hop landscape, and the themes and styles presented in the mixtape.
True to his vision of a "Top Dawg party," the album's guest list and producer credits are a who's who of hip-hop royalty.
Here is a breakdown of the album's ambitious tracklist:
J. Cole (who produced "Sapiosexual"), DJ Dahi , Rahki , and Terrace Martin . Legacy and Reception
A booming, capitalist anthem that feels like a celebratory victory lap. Q and Soul trade verses about their newfound wealth, contrasting sharply with Ab-Soul’s historically anti-materialistic viewpoints.