Freddie Gibbs’ sequel to 2017’s “You Only Live 2wice,” sees the rapper look back on his life and music career.
Freddie Gibbs’ sequel to 2017’s “You Only Live 2wice,” sees the rapper look back on his life and music career.
Released Oct. 31, “You Only Die 1nce” is the sequel to rapper Freddie Gibbs’ 2017 record “You Only Live 2wice.” The album is a comprehensive journey through Gibbs’ rough upbringing, his rise to fame and his critiques of the music industry.
“Status” opens the album with a haunting choir and monologue from Satan himself — introduced as Andre — who attempts to guide Gibbs down a path of temptation and greed.
“Cosmo Freestyle” provides an unfiltered analysis of Gibbs’ career, likening the hardships of urban life in poverty to the music industry — set to the boom-bap beats defined in 90s hip-hop.
The song reflects the classic hip-hop style Gibbs grew up with and drew inspirations from, according to The Vogue.
The second track, “Wolverine,” taps into Gibbs’ activist roots, presenting a vibrant blend of Black culture through jazz, hip-hop and bold social commentary.
“Too many sex crimes, sex scenes, Weinstein, Epsteins / Them crackers rich forever, you Black, they want the whole thing,” Gibbs raps.
The ensuing “Brick Fees” complements “Wolverine’s” dissection of Black communities by delving into its darker aspects — drawing from Gibbs’ involvement in gangs.
“I wasn’t no killer, but they pushed me / Just breathe in deep and squeeze / Don’t close your eyes or you a pussy,” Gibbs raps.
It isn’t until the album’s eighth track, “30 Girlfriends (Yeah Yeah),” where the album’s themes fully develop. Gibbs questions if he’s stuck in his old ways, reflecting on a past marked by gang ties, drug dealing and an inability to settle down.
“30 Girlfriends (Yeah Yeah)” sparks his realization of the album’s core message — life has more to offer than material possessions.
“Ruthless” furthers Gibbs’ search for purpose, in which he raps about the hollow satisfaction his fame provides.
The chorus falls flat in its comparison to flex culture in the rap scene. The beat remains static across its two-minute runtime, resulting in a derivative addition to an otherwise innovative album.
“Neck game stupid (yeah) / Wrist game stupid (yeah) / Whip game stupid (yeah),” Gibbs raps.
“On The Set” ends the album with frustration-fueled commentary on the rap industry.
Reflecting on the deaths of icons Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G., a sense of betrayal is detailed in lines recounting the industry’s prioritization of material wealth over honoring the dead legends of rap.
“When you die, they ain’t got shit for your moms, they’d rather ice they neck out / Rest in peace to Rich Homie Quan, you was too young to check out / Industry wasn’t checkin’ for Gary, I feel like I was left out,” Gibbs raps.
Blending raw lyricism, pensive moments and uncompromising critiques of the industry, “You Only Die 1nce” solidifies Gibbs as an ever-evolving artist who confronts uncomfortable truths.
“You Only Live 1nce” is available on all major streaming platforms.
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