After years of speculation, leaks, and cryptic teases, Playboi Carti surprised fans this past Friday with the long-awaited album Music. The artist clearly wasn’t wasting time in the studio—this project spans 30 tracks with a total runtime of 76 minutes. The hype has been building for what feels like forever, but is the release living up to expectations?
Carti’s Star-Studded Tracklist
Carti’s latest project is by far his most expansive and daring. The album blends high-energy beats, distorted vocals, and wild ad-libs that have become synonymous with his sound. While some fans have praised its experimental nature, others say it lacks cohesion or vision.
Adding to the excitement, Music boasts an impressive lineup of features, including Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Lil Uzi Vert, and Kendrick Lamar. These collaborations have been a major talking point. Some fans love the mix of talent, while others feel the features add too many moving parts. One of the most discussed moments comes from Kendrick Lamar’s verse on “Good Credit“, which has been heavily memed online for its odd delivery and lyrics. If you’ve been on X/Twitter or Instagram, you’ve probably seen the phrase: “Carti I need that beep, beep, beep, beep.”
Public Reaction: Quality or Quantity?
Despite the mixed reactions, Music is dominating streaming platforms. The only question is—how many of these streams are repeat listeners? Many longtime Carti fans are underwhelmed, calling the album messy and uninspired. Others argue that its bold production choices will age like fine wine.
One of the biggest criticisms centers around the album’s length. At 30 tracks, some say the sheer volume waters down the experience. Others point out that the unconventional mixing and reliance on industry trends make it feel repetitive. While the album undeniably takes risks, not every listener is convinced they pay off.
‘Music’ Streaming Success vs. Audience Takeaways
Love it or hate it, Music is a streaming powerhouse. So far, it has charted on two major platforms—Spotify and Apple Music. Interestingly, both have the same top two tracks: “Evil Jordan” at #1 and “Rather Lie” (featuring The Weeknd) at #2. Other tracks are also making waves, dominating the top 20 spots on both platforms. Say what you will about the album, but it’s definitely making noise.
Time Will Tell
Whether Music is a groundbreaking statement or a misstep depends on who you ask. Some embrace its chaotic weirdness, while others see it as a collection of unfinished ideas. One thing’s for sure—music evolves, and so does public perception. Time will tell if Playboi Carti missed the mark or if fans just need to catch up to the vision.
