One of MBDTF ’s most interesting qualities lies in its sampling of unorthodox songs and sounds that traditionally weren’t viewed to be part of the hip-hop scene. This approach is also evident in Ty Dolla $ign’s slow-jam symphonies, as well as Travis Scott’s Rodeo (2015), which incorporates an intricate gothic surface with undertones of ominous nonsense. These effects are especially observable in music by Key Wane, London on da Track, and Tyler, the Creator, where the idea of risk-taking, as well as the addition of grandiose themes and live instruments, are so noticeable it almost feels tangible. The album uniquely tears down the walls that divide music genres, and inspired artists ranging from Drake to Nate Ruess of Fun to expand their boundaries of music production. In spite of all these qualities, perhaps the most prevalent influence of MBDTF is in its production quality. The iconic moments of Minaj’s incredible verse in “Monster” as well as the quaint voice of Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon weaved masterfully into the fabric of “Dark Fantasy” garnered the affection of listeners and created a beautiful blend of contrasting music styles. Just think about whatever you’ve been through in the past week, and I have a song about that on my album.” This stance of appointing himself in direct relation to the listener, as opposed to the drastic divide many of the bling-era rappers painted, represented a substantial change in how relatable a successful rapper could be.Īside from its lyrical implications, the album not only assisted in keeping veterans Jay-Z, Rihanna, Raekwon, and the RZA relevant, but it also helped to elevate the careers of artists in Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi, CyHi the Prince, Pusha T, and Bon Iver. In referring to the album’s lyrical content and his character, Kanye once said, “My persona is that I’m the regular person. If Kanye’s College Dropout (2004) was an impact in bending the rules of hip-hop away from the rigid, Timbaland-sounding, gangster-themed “Bling Era,” then MBDTF completely eradicated any sense of conforming to structural order within hip-hop. Songs like “Runaway” and “Blame Game” walk thin lines between the raw and the refined, humanizing Kanye’s most inhumane impulses as he works out his struggles with romance, arrogance, and self-acceptance. He delves deeper into his feelings of abandonment and alienation from America on “Gorgeous” and “Lost in the World” (and its outro) reflecting further, and less specifically, on the social climate that cast him out, before careening back to the self. The overtly triumphant lead single “Power” lets it be known with no room for uncertainty that he is a presence that must be dealt with, a talent we must cherish and be grateful for. The album is exquisite and grandiose, but at the same time also highlights themes of darkness, lust, self-doubt and escapism. When examining overall themes, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy definitely brought back the idea of concept records, while also inspiring the complex, opposing themes we see in today’s music. MBDTF would eventually flower into an undeniable piece of art, so compelling it would eclipse all of his perceived missteps and reassert his prominence in our culture. Retreating to a self-imposed exile in Hawaii, Kanye began crafting an album that would – in his own words – “win back the public.” And he did just that. At around the same time, Kanye had just broken up with model Amber Rose and faced heavy criticism for the Taylor Swift incident at the 2009 VMAs, which needs no explaining.
However, 808’s heavy use of autotune and minimalist structure proved to be Kanye’s biggest departure from the sound that initially launched his career and subsequently alienated his rap base. His album prior to MBDTF, 808s & Heartbreak (2008), was no different. Love him or hate him, the sheer artistry and unorthodox sound he brings to the table is nothing short of brilliant. It goes without saying that Kanye is a once-in-a-generation influencer. Looking back almost a decade after its initial release, we hope to examine some of its influences on modern hip-hop and music production. And Kanye - who in spite of his recent stumbles remains an exemplary showman - delivered on every count. With MBDTF, Kanye created an introspective masterpiece that melds pop potency with an epic splatter derived from alien electronic, R&B ballads, and classic rock.
#My beautiful dark twisted fantasy lyrics amber rose full#
November 22nd marked another full year that has passed since Kanye West dropped one of his greatest pieces of work, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010).
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