Westside Gunn’s “10” Album: A Hip-Hop Masterpiece That Continues to Elevate the Culture

October 14, 2024 admin

The realm of hip-hop is constantly evolving, with artists pushing boundaries, blending genres, and exploring new soundscapes. One such artist who has consistently done this is Westside Gunn, a Buffalo native and one of the founders of the acclaimed hip-hop collective Griselda. Westside Gunn’s “10” album marks a milestone not only in his career but also in the world of underground hip-hop. Known for his unique blend of gritty lyricism and avant-garde production, Gunn’s contributions have solidified his place in hip-hop’s elite.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Westside Gunn’s album “10”, its impact on the hip-hop landscape, and why it is a must-listen for any serious fan of the genre. We’ll also dive into the themes, guest features, and production that make this project stand out. Finally, we’ll answer seven frequently asked questions to give you even deeper insight into this project.

Who Is Westside Gunn?

Before diving into the specifics of “10”, it’s important to understand who Westside Gunn is and what he represents in hip-hop. Born Alvin Lamar Worthy, Westside Gunn hails from Buffalo, New York, and is best known for his work as a rapper, entrepreneur, and fashion icon. Alongside his brother Conway the Machine and cousin Benny the Butcher, Gunn co-founded Griselda Records, a label that has garnered widespread acclaim for its raw, uncompromising take on East Coast hip-hop.

Gunn’s music is heavily influenced by street life and the high-fashion world, combining gritty, street-centric lyrics with high-end art and fashion references. This juxtaposition of the grimy and the glamorous is a hallmark of his work and a significant reason why he stands out in the crowded hip-hop landscape.

The Significance of “10” in Westside Gunn’s Discography

Released in 2022, “10” is Westside Gunn’s tenth studio album, marking the final chapter in his Hitler Wears Hermes series. Despite its provocative title, the series has nothing to do with glorifying historical figures. Instead, it serves as a metaphor for Gunn’s ambition and the idea of rising above challenges in both the streets and the industry.

“10” holds particular significance because it encapsulates the essence of Gunn’s career thus far. It’s a project that blends his signature street rap aesthetic with luxury references, proving once again that he can balance the underground ethos with mainstream success. The album serves as a culmination of everything Westside Gunn has worked toward, from his early mixtape days to becoming one of the most influential names in hip-hop.

Themes and Content in “10”

One of the defining features of Westside Gunn’s music is its dedication to storytelling and authenticity. “10” continues this tradition, offering a vivid portrait of street life while also celebrating Gunn’s rise in the fashion world and his impact on hip-hop culture.

Key Themes in “10”:

Street Narratives: Gunn’s lyricism paints a raw, unfiltered picture of the streets, reflecting the struggles, codes, and harsh realities of urban life.
Luxury & Art: High-end fashion and art references are abundant throughout the album, reinforcing Gunn’s love for luxury culture and his influence in both hip-hop and fashion.
Legacy Building: As the final installment in the Hitler Wears Hermes series, “10” serves as a testament to Gunn’s journey in the rap game, showcasing his evolution as both an artist and a businessman.
Community & Collaboration: Gunn has always been one to uplift those around him, and “10” is no exception. The album features an array of guest artists, demonstrating his commitment to the Griselda collective and his influence on the underground scene.

Production: Dark, Gritty, and Experimental

A significant aspect of Westside Gunn’s appeal is his choice of production. Known for favoring unconventional beats that stray from typical mainstream hip-hop production, “10” continues this trend. The album features production from some of the best underground producers, ensuring that each track carries a dark, atmospheric, and raw feel.

Key Producers on the Album:

Daringer: A long-time Griselda collaborator, Daringer’s production is synonymous with the Griselda sound—gritty, lo-fi beats that feel raw and unpolished, perfectly complementing Gunn’s vivid street tales.
The Alchemist: Another frequent collaborator, The Alchemist brings his signature sample-heavy, minimalist production style to the project. His contributions add a cinematic quality to the album, enhancing Gunn’s storytelling.
Conductor Williams: Known for his experimental approach, Conductor Williams brings a unique sonic element to “10”, blending dissonant melodies with eerie soundscapes.

Guest Features: A Star-Studded Lineup

Westside Gunn has always been about collaboration, and “10” is packed with some of the most exciting guest appearances in hip-hop. These features add depth and diversity to the album, giving each track a fresh perspective while maintaining the cohesive, gritty feel that Griselda is known for.

Notable Guest Features:

Benny the Butcher: Gunn’s cousin and frequent collaborator, Benny the Butcher, delivers razor-sharp bars that perfectly complement the album’s dark, street-centric vibe.
Conway the Machine: Westside Gunn’s brother and another key member of Griselda, Conway brings his signature intensity and lyricism to the table, contributing to some of the album’s most memorable moments.
A$AP Rocky: Adding a bit of mainstream appeal to the project, A$AP Rocky delivers a standout feature, blending his Harlem swag with the grimy Griselda aesthetic.
Black Star: The legendary duo of Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def) and Talib Kweli appear on the album, adding a conscious and lyrical depth to the project.

Why “10” Stands Out in Hip-Hop

“10” stands out in today’s hip-hop scene for several reasons. First, it showcases a dedication to raw lyricism and storytelling, something that has become somewhat rare in an industry that often prioritizes catchy hooks and trap beats. Westside Gunn’s refusal to compromise his sound or message has earned him a loyal fanbase that values authenticity over trends.

Additionally, the album serves as a masterclass in balancing underground grit with high-fashion opulence. Gunn’s ability to navigate both worlds—rapping about the harsh realities of street life while also referencing luxury brands like Hermès and Chanel—sets him apart from his peers.

Finally, “10” is a testament to Gunn’s vision and leadership within Griselda. His ability to bring together such a diverse array of artists and producers, all while maintaining a cohesive sound and message, is a testament to his skills as both an artist and executive.

Conclusion

Westside Gunn’s “10” is more than just an album—it’s a statement. It’s a declaration of his place in the hip-hop pantheon and a celebration of everything he has built with Griselda. With its raw lyricism, dark production, and star-studded features, “10” is an essential listen for anyone who appreciates authentic, uncompromising hip-hop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Westside Gunn’s album “10” about?

“10” is the final installment in Westside Gunn’s Hitler Wears Hermes series. The album explores themes of street life, luxury fashion, art, and Gunn’s rise in the hip-hop world.

Who are some of the guest artists on “10”?

The album features a star-studded lineup, including Benny the Butcher, Conway the Machine, A$AP Rocky, Black Star, and more.

What kind of production can I expect from “10”?

The production on “10” is dark, gritty, and experimental. Producers like Daringer, The Alchemist, and Conductor Williams bring a unique sonic atmosphere to the project.

How does “10” fit into Westside Gunn’s overall discography?

“10” serves as a culmination of everything Westside Gunn has built over his career, from his early mixtape days to his position as a leader in underground hip-hop.

Is “10” part of the Griselda collective’s output?

Yes, “10” is a Griselda release and features several key members of the collective, including Benny the Butcher and Conway the Machine.

What sets Westside Gunn apart from other rappers?

Westside Gunn’s blend of raw street narratives with high-fashion and art references sets him apart from other rappers. His ability to maintain an underground ethos while influencing the mainstream is another key factor.