Hip-hop luminaries Ab-Soul and JID have teamed up for the electrifying new single “Crazier,” where they go bar-for-bar to deliver hard-hitting lyrics. This track, a teaser from Ab-Soul’s highly anticipated upcoming album, Soul Burger, showcases the duo’s mastery over wordplay and their unique lyrical prowess. Set to drop on November 8, the album is dedicated to Ab-Soul’s close friend and mentor, Armon “Doe Burger” Stringer, who passed away in 2021.
“Crazier” Delivers Top-Tier Wordplay
On “Crazier,” JID and Ab-Soul pull no punches, swapping intense, introspective verses over a sparse but powerful beat by Kal Banx. JID opens the track with references that highlight his skill and confidence, including a memorable line comparing himself to rap legends JAY-Z and Nas: “The nasally Nas, but I’m more JAY-Z-er.” In response, Ab-Soul fires off equally potent bars, including a line where he proclaims, “Extraordinary, the stupid genius, somebody call Keem / Phoenix out the ashes like they done cremated Joaquin,” referring to both Phoenix rising from the ashes and actor Joaquin Phoenix.
Recently, Ab-Soul showed admiration for his collaborator, calling JID “one of the Jedis” in hip-hop during an interview with DJ Hed. The mutual respect between the two artists elevates “Crazier,” making it a standout track that resonates with fans of both lyricism and storytelling.
A Tribute to Doe Burger and a New Persona
Soul Burger isn’t just another album for Ab-Soul; it’s a tribute to the profound influence of his friend and mentor, Doe Burger. Ab-Soul explained in his interview with DJ Hed that this project emerged as a means to channel Doe Burger’s spirit and creativity, stating, “I don’t even know how I’m really still doing this without him.”
In Doe Burger’s memory, Soul has adopted some of his friend’s signature looks, including braided hair and jewelry, both of which he previously avoided. For Ab-Soul, these changes symbolize a deeper channeling of Doe’s energy and influence, pushing him into new artistic territory. As a tribute and creative exploration, Soul Burger blends the personalities of both Ab-Soul and Doe Burger, giving rise to what Soul describes as a new artistic persona. “To where this album is not me – it’s Soul Burger. That’s not me. It’s like a new artist.”
The album, he notes, will reveal this persona, distinguishing it from his past projects and pushing creative boundaries. Fans can expect a blend of profound lyrics, storytelling, and raw emotion—a project infused with the spirit of both artists.
Ready for a new chapter in Ab-Soul’s journey? Don’t miss Soul Burger on November 8, an album that promises to pay homage to Doe Burger’s legacy while exploring the depths of Ab-Soul’s artistry. Listen to “Crazier” now for a glimpse of what’s to come and get ready for a project that’s set to redefine the rap game.
