Citation: Playboi Carti (2017). Whole Lotta Red [Album]. Interscope.
In what is perhaps the defining moment of modern-day hip-hop music, Playboi Carti’s sophomore album Whole Lotta Red has become something of a phenomenon. You’ve heard the snippets cut up on TikTok, as an influential touchstone in other popular music, or maligned as a prime example of ‘mumble rap’ – Whole Lotta Red continues to divide audiences today.
By adopting a vampire-like persona throughout the album, Carti channels a sinister and nocturnal energy while rapping about fame over minimalistic beats. Hardcore fans of classic hip-hop need not apply here, little attention is paid to wordplay or holding back any of the profanity - Whole Lotta Red is best experienced as a ‘vibe’ for the musically open-minded.