With each of his releases in the last decade, Freddie Gibbs reassured the hip-hop community that he is one of the best artists and lyricists the game has to offer. But, that title and position in music is not satisfying enough for him.
In a recent interview with Revolt TV, Gibbs explained that his album Soul Sold Separately is on the horizon, but could also be his last rap album ever.
“This might be one of my last rap albums,” Gibbs said. “I ain’t gotta rap no more, man. After ‘SSS,’ Ima show y’all… I’m ‘bout to bust out with an R&B album.”
He went on to explain that he started his career in the early 2000s as an R&B artist, and that R&B was the music he was truly passionate about making. However, after hitting roadblocks on his journey as an R&B artist, he pivoted to rap and focused on reaching his full potential as a rapper.
Now, years later, he has an elite pen and impeccable ear for production that complements his flow as a rapper. But, he explained rapping was solely a vehicle for him to gain wealth and notoriety.
Freddie also said his February single “Gang Signs” with ScHoolboy Q served as a sneak peak to his R&B sound, as he crafted a an impressive sung hook over mellow, groovy horns on the instrumental.
“That ain’t no rap song, that’s R&B. I snuck it in on you ni**as and you loved it,” he said. “Snuck it in there, and y’all was like, ‘Freddie Gibbs talking his shit!’”
“Gang Signs” will potentially be included on Gibbs’ upcoming project, as will several other collborations with notable producers like Madlib, Pharrell Williams, The Alchemist, Hit-Boy and Kenny Beats, as well as rappers like Benny the Butcher and Tyler, The Creator.
So, while it is exciting that we have a new Freddie Gibbs rap album on the way, it would be wise to cherish it when it comes and prepare for the new R&B Freddie Gibbs era.
