Hip hop, like many other genres, is simply vast in the amount of artists, styles, and albums that are encompassed within it. Because it is so huge, listeners often forget about albums, mixtapes, and songs shortly after they are released. This is a shame because there is so much great hip hop out there that flies under the radar because it isn’t brand new. One project that was seemingly forgotten by many hip hop fans is Juicy J’s Stay Trippy album, which celebrated its fifth birthday this week after being released on August 23rd, 2013.

Juicy’s third solo album

After distancing himself from Three 6 Mafia in order to focus on his solo career, Juicy J announced this project in 2012 in conjunction with the release of his single “Bandz A Make Her Dance” featuring 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne. The album was announced shortly after he signed with Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang label, making it his first release under the label.

“Bandz A Make Her Dance” was received well, topping out at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 song chart. Later in 2012, Juicy announced that Stay Trippy was delayed until 2013.

The announcement of his album dropping in 2013 set Juicy up for a big year. He released singles “Show Out” and “Bounce It” during the lead up to the release date of August 23rd. When the album finally released, it debuted at number 4 on the Billboard 200 album chart. The new project sold 64,000 copies in its first week. Featured artists on the album included Wiz Khalifa, Chris Brown, The Weeknd, ASAP Rocky, and many more.    

Notable tracks

With the success that the pre-released singles gained, the album definitely shaped up quite well into a great effort.

“Bandz A Make Her Dance” – Juicy J ft. 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne

You had to expect that this one would be a standout. On this track, we hear Juicy J, 2 Chainz, and Lil Wayne go in over some classic Mike Will Made-It production. This is Juicy’s highest-ever charting solo track, and for good reason. It’s truly the quintessential party anthem of 2013, and continues to get heavy plays to this day.

“The Woods” – Juicy J ft. Justin Timberlake  

One of the things that makes this track standout from the rest of Juicy’s discography is that it sounds so different from everything else he’s done besides his features on pop tracks. It’s got a smooth hook from JT, some dope verses from Juicy, and a Timbaland beat. So what’s not to love? If you’re looking for a track that’s chock full of chill vibes but also has Juicy’s distinct flow, this is the track for you.

“Talkin’ Bout” – Juicy J ft. Wiz Khalifa and Chris Brown

This has always been a personal favorite track of mine from Stay Trippy. The hook with Wiz and Juicy is smooth as butter, and catchy too. You’ll have it stuck in your head for the rest of the day after you hear this song. We also get to hear a surprisingly good rap verse from the one and only Chris Brown. This is also a good track for that party playlist, as is most of this album.

Wrap up

Overall, Juicy J’s Stay Trippy is one of the better hip hop albums that dropped in 2011 and it stands the test of time. It still sounds as fresh as it did the day it dropped. If you have yet to take a listen to this project, I’d suggest doing so. And if you want to get more into Juicy J’s music, check out his old stuff with Three 6 Mafia as well as his other solo projects. Happy rapaversary Stay Trippy!

Image owned by Juicy J/Taylor Gang/Kemosabe/Columbia