Playboi Carti’s MUSIC: A Chaotic Masterpiece That Redefines Modern Hip-Hop
In March 2025, Playboi Carti unveiled his long-awaited third studio album, MUSIC, a 30-track odyssey that defies conventional hip-hop norms. Featuring collaborations with industry heavyweights like Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar, and others, the album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, solidifying Carti's position as a trailblazer in the genre.
A Long-Awaited Release
The journey to MUSIC was anything but straightforward. Following the success of his 2020 album Whole Lotta Red, Carti began teasing new music as early as March 2021. Initially titled Narcissist, the project underwent several transformations before finally being announced as MUSIC in March 2025. The album's release was preceded by cryptic billboards and social media teasers, culminating in its drop on March 14, 2025. Despite delays due to sample clearance issues, the anticipation only heightened the album's impact upon release.
Commercial Triumph
MUSIC shattered streaming records, amassing 139.3 million first-day streams on Spotify, making it the biggest debut of 2025 and the seventh-largest in the platform's history. The album outperformed releases from artists like Drake and Kendrick Lamar, showcasing Carti's immense popularity.
In its first week, MUSIC earned 298,000 album-equivalent units in the U.S., marking Carti's second number-one album and his fastest-selling to date. All 30 tracks simultaneously debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, a feat unprecedented for a rapper.
Artistic Evolution
MUSIC represents a significant evolution in Carti's sound. Departing from his signature "baby voice" style, he adopts a deeper, raspier tone throughout the album. The project blends elements of trap, rage music, and experimental sounds, creating a unique auditory experience. Tracks like "Evil J0rdan" and "Mojo Jojo" exemplify this shift, showcasing Carti's willingness to push boundaries.
The album's production credits read like a who's who of the industry, featuring names like Metro Boomin, TM88, and Wheezy. Notably, DJ Swamp Izzo serves as the album's hypeman, providing a human anchor to Carti's chaotic soundscape.
Collaborations and Features
MUSIC boasts an impressive roster of guest artists, including Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar, Future, Lil Uzi Vert, and Young Thug. These collaborations add depth and variety to the album, with each artist bringing their unique flair to the project. For instance, Kendrick Lamar's contribution on "Mojo Jojo" stands out as a highlight, blending seamlessly with Carti's experimental approach.
Critical Reception
Critics have lauded MUSIC for its innovation and boldness. NME described the album as a "journey through trap’s peaks and valleys," highlighting Carti's ability to spin chaos into something cinematic.
The Guardian praised the album's exploration of diverse soundscapes, noting its blend of classic Atlantan trap, Hungarian psych, and bright R&B. They emphasized that despite a few less impactful tracks, the overall project showcases Carti's capacity to innovate and captivate.
However, not all reviews were entirely positive. Pitchfork acknowledged the album's self-indulgence and chaotic nature but recognized it as a bold statement capturing the essence of Carti's artistic vision.
Controversies and AI Accusations
Despite its success, MUSIC has not been without controversy. Some tracks, notably "Rather Lie" and "Fine Shit," faced allegations of being generated using artificial intelligence, with critics questioning the authenticity of Carti's vocals. Carti has denied these claims, asserting the originality of his work.
Deluxe Edition and Future Projects
On March 25, 2025, Carti released a deluxe edition of the album titled MUSIC – Sorry 4 Da Wait, featuring additional tracks and music videos. Looking ahead, Carti has hinted at a forthcoming project titled Baby Boi, indicating that his creative journey is far from over.
Conclusion
Playboi Carti's MUSIC is more than just an album; it's a statement of artistic evolution and a testament to his willingness to defy norms. By embracing chaos and experimentation, Carti has crafted a project that challenges listeners and redefines the boundaries of hip-hop. As he continues to innovate, Carti solidifies his position as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
