Hip Hop’s new wave is polarizing. Old heads are desperate for Rap to return to its lyrical roots. Newer fans are laughing at their elders, encouraging them to either get with the times or stop complaining. I get both sides. Nas’ Illmatic is praised as being one of Hip Hop's—and music’s—best albums due to its thoughtful stories, illuminated by his intricate rhyme scheme and revolutionary flow. Young Thug has today’s music scene on a leash thanks to his intoxicating sound, charisma and uniquely textured voice.
I often disdain new wave rappers: Yachty, Lil Uzi Vert, Kodak Black. They appear unimpressive with a lacking musical acumen, relying on trap beats to mask their ineptitude. However, there are three new wave artists whom I believe embody progression and foreshadow a bright Hip Hop future: Travis Scott, Young Thug and Quavo. Now, my only question is, why aren’t these guys a group yet?
They are operating on a higher-level. Each successfully represents an aspect of Hip Hop’s reincarnation, and convincingly outperforms their competitors. Travie is the master composer/producer; Quavo offers an impenitent confidence; Thug’s horsed flow is mesmerizing. Together, they have the potential to prosper; to dominate; to win. These three could be Hip Hop’s Avengers, using their superpowers to kill whack emcees and propel the genre.
Although it’s anecdotal, let’s look at our one example by them: “Pick Up The Phone.” Making appearances on both Thugger and Travie’s albums (Jeffery and Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight, respectively), this track is like an Easy-Bake Oven—not overly complicated, fun and produces heat. With over 67 million Spotify plays and over 10.5 million YouTube views, this collaboration vindicates their status. Quavo’s verse was so impactful that it incentivized Travis to change the name of his album (previously entitled, Tina). Some might view that detail as insignificant, but I think it demonstrates their confidence in one another—a cornerstone of successful teams. Another indicator of their sure-fired success is their commercial appeal.
I was talking to a White Jewish girl from Connecticut the other day. For some reason, I had a hunch that she didn’t like Hip Hop. Maybe it was the fact that she was a JAP from Connecticut; maybe it was because she wouldn’t shut up about her new rain boots. I don’t know, maybe I’m wrong. While I was quickly fading from the conversation, she said something that reeled me back in: “Have you ever heard of that song ‘Pick Up The Phone?’” After pinching the bridge of my nose in frustration for even asking me that question (nah bitch I run a Hip Hop blog and haven’t heard one of the summer’s hottest songs), I realized that these three spitters possess something that most musicians covet but never achieve: transcendence. The same girl who previously asked me if I fasted for Yom Kippur thoroughly enjoyed this Hip Hop drenched track. I ask again: why aren’t these guys a group yet?
There are a couple of deviating factors: Migos and solo careers. Migos achieved fame with their single, “Versace,” (and Drake’s subsequent feature) and, of course, “the dab”—another facet co-opted and killed by the White community. Over their three-year meteoric rise, they’ve impacted the culture and music through their voraciousness and trendsetting innovation. But one man stands out from the rest; the Beyoncé to Migos’ Destiney’s Child: Quavo.
The Migos are a brotherhood. The newest GOOD Music signees are a prosperous tripod, but Quavo seems to be shouldering the brunt of that support. Frequently recruited for hits, including Kanye’s star-studded “Champions” and Gucci’s “Floor Seats,” Quavo’s rising recognition has strengthened his brand while eclipsing his group members’, Takeoff and Offset. This disproportionate ascendance could strain their tripod support system, causing an implosion. I highly doubt he would, but if Quavo abandoned Migos for a supergroup with Travis and Thugger, they wouldn’t have to compete for popularity because they’re individually stars. I see them operating like the 2012 championship Heat team—three superstars in their primes working towards dominance.
The other factor preventing Hip Hop’s Avengers is, contrary to my previous statement, the respective artist’s solo careers. Each of them are heavily invested in their own futures, and I could see how forming a group would inhibit their individual progression. Less time recording your own music; less time spent building your brand; less time focused on you. I guess I might be a little selfish by wanting this supergroup, but come on! Who wouldn’t want this?
Hip Hop is at a crossroads. Old heads like Ebro can’t stomach Rap’s direction; new heads don’t know who Ebro is. We’re craving divine intervention. We need an intermediary to properly evolve Hip Hop. Considering that the innovative genius, Kanye, has endorsed Quavo, Travis and Thugger, I think it’s safe to say that these individuals have the power to effectively transition the genre. I think it’s really safe to say that their combined powers outweigh their individuals strengths. I think Quavo, Travis and Thugger need to form a group already.