COVER STORY/ WESTSIDE GUNN
FLY GOD
Since I started this newsletter I always wanted this content and this platform to be known for writing about the best of the lesser-known Hiphop artist. I knew eventually I would write about Westside Gunn. I first started listening to him through a Royce Da 5’9” song in 2016 maybe. He had already been releasing music for a while at the point. In fact, Westside Gunn has releases that date back to 2005. Recently Fly God released Hitler Wears Hermes 8: Sincerely Adolf Side A and Side B.
This is allegedly the last installment for the Hitler Wears Hermes. The two sides are amazing the first one features Jadakiss, Stove God Cooks (who goes crazy), and Lil’ Wayne. One of my favorite songs on the project is Claires Back which includes a legendary DJ Clue Appearance. I’ve seen a lot of talk about Lil’ Wayne’s verse on Bash Money. But I really love Right Now with the Jadakiss feature. I could go on and on about the songs I love on Side A. Like Peri Peri, one of my favorite beats right now. The song features a dope verse from Rome Streetz. West sounds great on it and I've grown to appreciate his flow. It reminds me of Raekwon.
All this being said, I was surprised to hear that would even be a Side B. The project was being held up because a rapper called West and said he could put it out until he’s on it. Even more surprising is West saying that Side B was his favorite Side. Fans including me loved Side A but were also anticipating the second half of this project.
“Side B shows how bitter-sweet this moment is for Griselda fans”
West is one for theatrics and that makes for a great artist in hiphop he has fans glued to every move he makes. He’s created his own lane or world in hiphop. For the last few years, Westside Gunn has been saying that he’s going to retire from rap. I don’t think it’s going to happen.
One reason I don’t believe he’s going to retire is Side B. When I heard Side B it feels like one of the best put-together albums Westside Gunn has put together. That’s saying something for someone who probably could have won a Grammy for best rap album last with Pray For Paris. Side B of Hitler Wears Hermes 8 Includes singles TV BOY and Julia Lang. The Julia Lang song comes with class mixtape drops and a Julia Lang voice message.
Side B shows how bitter-sweet this moment is for Griselda fans. It feels like the end of an era. West is doing his best rapping and possibly is on his way out of the game. Side B features verses from Jay Electronica, 2chainz, and Tyler The Creator. This year has had a lot of great albums and moments in HipHop will there be some recognition for West on some of these major award show platforms?