Vince Staples has persevered through some Dark Times to get to where he is today, sharing the album that ultimately marks the end of an era.
Releasing DARK TIMES on Thursday (May 23), the 12-track LP evidently mirrors the sentiment Staples stated in his Instagram announcement. Finding clarity through “a clear understanding of self,” the Long Beach rapper’s sixth studio album will be his final jaunt under Def Jam Recordings after a decade-long partnership.
Dropping the record’s lead single “SHAME ON THE DEVIL” on Monday (May 20), Staples sounds more concise, reflective and sees him looking inward more than ever before, bleeding onto highlights like “Little Homies,” “Liars” and “Black&Blue,” among others.
Eleven years ago, a young, uncertain version of myself was given an opportunity with Def Jam Recordings. I released my first project under their banner, Shyne Coldchain Vol 2, a year later. I was unsure of what to expect from the world of music, but deeply aware of what I needed: a change in my surroundings and a clear understanding of self. Ten years and seven projects later, I’ve found that clarity. Now, I share with you my final Def Jam release, Dark Times.
Vince Staples via IG
Staples returns to music following his Netflix series “The Vince Staples Show” back in February. Sharing Ramona Park Broke My Heart (2022) and the self-titled VINCE STAPLES (2021) leading up to the show’s debut, upcoming performances at Gazebo Festival and Lollapalooza are sure to have fans blasting Dark Times in the sunlight all summer long.
Listen to ‘DARK TIMES’ below!