One thing about that can’t be denied is his incredible ear for production. Even his mixtape contains throw-away beats from J.U.S.T.I.C.E. L.E.A.G.U.E. and others that are better than most tracks we hear on the radio.
The latest Rick Ross project “Black Market,” is no different. And, the former heavyweight MC has the rhymes to match. With features from John Legend, Cee-Lo Green, Nas, Mariah Carey and more, we get a more introspective and reflective Ross.
He tackles subjects like his brief stint in jail, ghostwriting for other rappers and love for his mama. On “Can’t Say No,” Mariah Carey reiterates her legendary status with a rework of the 90’s hit “Can’t Let Go,” while Ross details his lady’s guilty pleasures over soulful production. Itap not the typical easy listening rap lyrics we’re used to hearing from Ross, as he seems out to prove he can be lyrically enigmatic and not just charismatic. His flow is more dizzying than what we’ve previously heard from the Florida star. On the Chris Brown-assisted “Sorry,” Ross lets Brown handle most of the melody while he spins rhymes about a woman licking the tattoos on his face.
There’s some overly sexual lyrics throughout “Black Market” but Rozay doesn’t shy away from his street persona. He takes pot shots at Drake on “Color Money” on behalf of his label mate Meek Mill and of course Ross gets punchy with his nemesis 50 Cent throughout. Perhaps the stand-out collaboration is with Future on “D.O.P.E.” a song that is sure to take over the clubs.
Ross knows how to play to his strengths and gives you the proof in the pudding of “Black Market.” The Maybach Music Group empire has tons of money, clout and prestige but more so, the label leader has the rap skills to pay the bills. Be sure to check for “Black Opium,” produced by DJ Premier and “Crocodile Python,” where Ross throws his rap weight around as easily as dollar bills in the strip club.
