Vince Staples is back. The rapper cemented his status in rap music with the release of the incredible debut album Summertime ’06 last year. He’s been keeping busy, touring for the record since its release, and is now ready to unleash music! Six-song EP Prima Donna has dropped today, and we know it will be another classic for the Long Beach, California native. Here are five reasons why we think Vince’s latest project will be a best-of contender at the end of the year:
James Blake has contributed production
James Blake is an incredible force behind the boards. Blake has contributed to recent projects from Frank Ocean, Beyonce and Drake, and released his third LP The Colour In Anything this past summer. His signature moody electronic soundscape will serve as a perfect canvas for Staples’ raw, unhinged rhymes. We know these two have cooked up something amazing. Re-visit Blake’s contributions to Drake’s “0 to 100 / The Catch-Up” below:
A$AP Rocky serves up a guest verse
Since we’re talking about special guests… we need to mention A$AP Rocky‘s involvement. The New York City native delivers a rapid-fire flow akin to Staples, but has focused more on the luxurious aspects of the hip-hop lifestyle in his past projects. Together, these two incredibly talented rappers find a perfect middle ground and spit a crazy collaboration hazy beat on the title track. This is one of our favourite hip-hop track this year.
There’s an incredible Outakast sample
Remember the Atlanta duos standout track “ATLiens”? Yeah, it’s sample on “War Ready.” It’s mind-blowing. Here’s the original for reference:
The album art is way too good
Peep the full cover above. When it comes to making a memorable project in every aspect, Vince Staples is king!
No I.D. returns
The producer who was instrumental to Summertime ’06‘s lush beats returns. He’s also behind beats like Drake‘s “Find Your Love” and Jay Z‘s “Holy Grail.” Expect more room-filling, hard-hitting beats from the Executive Vice President and Head of Creative of Def Jam. Yes… he’s partially responsible for this modern classic:
Are you amped for Prima Donna? Take a listen below and let us know your thoughts in the comments!