ScHoolboy Q’s CrasH Talk became an instant classic upon its release in 2019, and five years later, Q achieves the same feat with his sixth full-length album BLUE LIPS.
Few names in the industry command as much respect and admiration as ScHoolboy Q — playing a pivotal role in elevating Top Dawg Entertainment to hip-hop royalty, alongside TDE superstars like Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, SZA, Isaiah Rashad, SiR and others.
Instrumental in shaping and redefining the West Coast’s legacy, Q strikes gold on his self-proclaimed best album — ranking atop his personal list of his own projects. With a five-song rollout consisting of singles/videos in “Blueslides,” “Back n Love,” “Yeern 101,” “Cooties” and “Love Birds,” it feels like a victory lap fueled by Q’s undeterred hunger after a decade-plus in the game.
Nevertheless, Q’s five-year absence not only generated an overwhelming sense of anticipation towards BLUE LIPS, but allowed the Los Angeles icon to fully immerse himself within this record.
BLUE LIPS is in all parts lively, experimental and grandiose; Whether you’re talking about the rollout or contents of the 18-track LP. Interacting with fans daily — even calling out hip-hop twitter (HHT) by name in some cases — as the album drew closer, BLUE LIPS is more than just the music, it’s a defining moment for Q’s legacy. It’s more interactive and engaging because of how Q let fans into his world, his thoughts, his psyche outside of the record — he leaves nothing unsaid.
In typical fashion, Q’s lyrical prowess shines through as he addresses a range of topics, from the deeply personal to the socially and politically relevant. Tracks like “Cooties” and “Nunu” showcase his ability to tackle complex issues with insight and authenticity, while songs like the fan-favorite “THank god 4 me” underscore his unapologetic approach to addressing detractors and naysayers. Standout features from Rico Nasty on “Pop” and Freddie Gibbs on “oHio” add depth and diversity to the album, with each artist bringing their own unique flair to the table.
“Blueslides” proves to be the penultimate effort, though, contemplating how personal strife has evidently molded him and his work ethic. “Been a prisoner in my house, don’t know if they noticed / I done broke down so many times, next time they gonna catch me / I done helped out so many people that took me for granted / I done lost out to so much shit trying to live to your standards,” he slides over the orchestral arrangements and minimalistic drums, evidently fanning the fire inside him — he has lots more to say.
For day one Q fans, this is the album you’ve been waiting for. Spin BLUE LIPS until you’re blue in the face.
Listen to “BLUE LIPS” below!