Hitler Wears Hermes (2012) - Westside Gunn

Released on October 26, 2012, Westside Gunn’s debut mixtape Hitler Wears Hermes is the first installment in a series that would become essential to his identity as an underground innovator. In this early work, Gunn fuses gritty street narratives with unexpected high-fashion references and offbeat cultural nods. The project’s raw energy and concise format—just six tracks—offer listeners a glimpse into the mind of a young artist still defining his sound.

The mixtape opens with “Mkqueens Dead,” an assertive opener that immediately establishes Gunn’s defiant tone. It is followed by “Rayfuls Plug,” a track that pays homage to the notorious urban figure Rayful Edmond, anchoring the project in the realities of street life. “Me And My Eagle” follows, blending introspection with bold imagery as Gunn reflects on ambition and survival. On “Suede Mutumbos,” his inventive wordplay and confident delivery shine through, merging the raw and refined elements that would later become his trademark. “Messhall Talk” deepens the narrative with its unyielding authenticity and dramatic flair, encapsulating the essence of his early style. The mixtape concludes with “Lost Art,” a track that rounds out the project with a sense of wistful reflection and hints at the creative legacy Gunn would continue to build.

Hitler Wears Hermes not only marked the beginning of Westside Gunn’s storied series but also set the stage for his future work, showcasing a balance of relentless bravado and creative vulnerability. The complete tracklist for the first installment is as follows:

1. Mkqueens Dead
2. Rayfuls Plug
3. Me And My Eagle
4. Suede Mutumbos
5. Messhall Talk
6. Lost Art

This six-track mixtape remains a significant early statement in Gunn’s career—a raw, unfiltered expression of the artistic vision that has since evolved into a major force in underground hip hop.