Westside Gunn - Still Praying (Album)
Westside Gunn’s latest album, “Still Praying,” is a testament to his consistent reign in the hip-hop landscape. It is yet another masterpiece that showcases his lyrical and creative acumen. Collaborating with DJ Drama, who weaves his trademark hype essence throughout the project, Gunn elevates his sound to new heights. Drama’s presence enhances the album’s grit and authenticity, reinforcing Gunn’s unyielding drive and artistry.
The 14-track project boasts standout contributions from heavyweights like Conway the Machine, Rome Streetz & Boldy James, each bringing their unique styles to the table and amplifying the album’s raw power. Gunn’s lyrical militia moves in sync, with every feature seamlessly adding layers of intensity and skill that fans have come to expect. The verses feel like “Verse of the Year” contenders, underscoring the quality and focus Gunn poured into the project. “Still Praying” perfectly aligns with the legendary standard Westside Gunn has consistently set. His meticulous approach to creating “gold-weighed art” is evident throughout the project, with each track seamlessly fitting into a grand, cohesive vision. Gunn’s curatorial prowess shines here, crafting an album that not only stands on its own but could arguably outclass the catalogs of many artists in the game. Every beat, feature, and verse is deliberate, reflecting Gunn’s attention to detail and ability to balance gritty realism with high art. The features—Conway, Rome Streetz, Stove God, Boldy, and Benny, among others—aren’t just add-ons but integral parts of a larger picture. Gunn’s ability to bring together such a formidable team and extract their best work shows his understanding of hip-hop as both a craft and a legacy. His unique vision and knack for creating projects that resonate beyond just music solidify After “11” as another chapter in his legacy, elevating his stature among rap’s elite.
On tracks like these, Gunn easily flexes his artistic stature, diving deep into storytelling, gritty visuals, and his unmatched charisma. He seamlessly intertwines his love for wrestling with his music, as his event, Heels Have Eyes 3, has already become legendary. This dedication to both music and culture reinforces his God-tier status, and “Still Praying” feels like a crowning achievement, solidifying Gunn’s position as an icon whose impact transcends music, embodying a powerful movement in hip-hop. This album is essential listening for fans of street narratives, lyrical mastery, and Gunn’s unmistakable flair.