Playboi Carti (2017) - Playboi Carti

 

Playboi Carti's self-titled debut mixtape, released on April 14, 2017, was a defining moment in modern hip-hop, helping to cement the minimalist, ad-lib-driven sound that would influence an entire generation of rappers. Carti's effortless delivery, hypnotic production, and infectious energy made this project an instant classic in the trap scene. With beats handled by Pierre Bourne, Southside, and others, Playboi Carti is less about lyrical depth and more about creating a vibe—one that thrives on repetition, melody, and a raw, unfiltered energy.

Tracklist:

1. Location
2. Magnolia
3. Lookin (feat. Lil Uzi Vert)
4. Wokeuplikethis* (feat. Lil Uzi Vert)
5. Let It Go
6. Half & Half
7. New Choppa (feat. A$AP Rocky)
8. Other Shit
9. No. 9
10. Dothatshit!
11. Lame Niggaz
12. Yah Mean
13. Flex (feat. Leven Kali)
14. Kelly K
15. Had 2

From the very start, Playboi Carti immerses listeners in a dreamlike haze of bouncy synths, distorted bass, and hypnotic vocal loops. "Location" sets the tone with atmospheric production that feels like an entrance into a new world, one where ad-libs and energy take precedence over intricate lyricism. Then there's "Magnolia," the defining track of the mixtape and arguably one of the biggest hits of 2017, with its infectious "In New York I Milly Rock" hook and Pierre Bourne's signature production style turning it into an anthem.

The chemistry between Carti and Lil Uzi Vert is undeniable on tracks like "Lookin" and "Wokeuplikethis*," where their melodic, auto-tuned deliveries blend seamlessly over Pierre's hypnotic beats. "New Choppa," featuring A$AP Rocky, stands out for its back-and-forth flow, while deep cuts like "Kelly K" and "Flex" showcase Carti's ability to carry a track purely on energy and charisma.

The production across the project is lush yet minimal, favoring repetitive loops and hard-hitting 808s. This allows Carti's playful and often improvised vocal style to shine. Lyrically, the tape doesn’t aim for complexity—it’s about mood, aesthetic, and the effortless confidence that Carti brings to every track.

Playboi Carti is a mixtape that thrives on feel rather than meaning. It's music made for movement—whether it's the bass-heavy bounce of "Magnolia" or the head-nodding hypnotism of "Location." My personal favorites include "Magnolia" (undeniably addictive), "Wokeuplikethis*" (a perfect collaboration with Lil Uzi), and "New Choppa" (one of Carti's more structured and engaging tracks).

Even years after its release, this mixtape remains one of the defining moments in modern trap music. It captures a carefree, rebellious energy that makes Playboi Carti one of the most influential artists of his era.