Cardi B has released her second album, 'Am I the Drama?'. The project features a mix of personal reflections, genre exploration, and direct responses to public discourse. It includes collaborations with artists like Selena Gomez, Lizzo, Summer Walker, and Tyla, showcasing Cardi B's range as an artist.
The album delves into various aspects of her life, including her highly publicized relationship with Offset, her Afro-Caribbean heritage, and her interactions with other figures in the music industry. It also contains references to political figures and classic music samples, blending contemporary themes with established sounds.
Key Takeaways
- Cardi B addresses her relationship with Offset in multiple songs.
- The album features more rapping and less singing compared to her debut.
- It includes a strong merengue-influenced track, 'Bodega Baddie'.
- Cardi B responds to past criticisms and industry disputes.
- Several tracks sample classic songs from artists like Jay-Z and Janet Jackson.
- Vice President Kamala Harris is mentioned in a rap lyric.
- Selena Gomez and Summer Walker contribute to the album.
Exploring Personal Relationships and Public Discourse
Cardi B uses 'Am I the Drama?' to discuss her relationship with ex-husband Offset. She includes direct references and emotional insights into their dynamic. Tracks like "Magnet" contain pointed lines, while later songs offer a more vulnerable perspective on the personal impact of their highly visible relationship.
On "Man of Your Word," Cardi B delivers one of her most intimate performances. Over a drumless beat, she reflects on sacrifices made and the challenges of balancing a relationship with her career.
"Should’ve held back from you, instead I gave you a son," she raps, adding, "As a wife I should’ve realized when you was hurt/but instead I put my music first."
This track concludes with a gesture of goodwill, wishing him well. The themes of romantic turmoil continue on "What’s Going On" with Lizzo and "Shower Tears" featuring Summer Walker, where she addresses infidelity and the desire for independence.
Album Details
The album features nine distinct takeaways, highlighting different aspects of Cardi B's artistry and personal narrative. It includes a total of 12 tracks, with guest appearances from a diverse group of artists.
Focus on Rapping Skill
Compared to her debut album, 'Invasion of Privacy', this new project emphasizes Cardi B's rapping abilities. While her first album showcased some singing, 'Am I the Drama?' largely focuses on her lyrical delivery and flow. This shift demonstrates her growth as an MC and her commitment to honing her core rap skills.
Fans will note a deliberate move away from the vocal melodies present in earlier tracks like "Be Careful." The album prioritizes intricate bars and sharp wordplay.
Cultural Heritage and Industry Responses
Cardi B consistently celebrates her Afro-Caribbean background. The track "Bodega Baddie" is a clear example of this. It incorporates merengue tipico and dembow sounds, reflecting her upbringing in the Bronx.
The song was previewed on TikTok before the album's release, generating significant anticipation. Its energetic, dance-oriented beat suggests potential for broad appeal across Latin, rap, and pop charts.
Afro-Caribbean Influence
Cardi B has often spoken about the blend of Latin and Black cultures that shaped her identity. This cultural fusion is a recurring element in her music, allowing her to connect with a wide audience.
Addressing Industry Critics
Cardi B also uses the album to respond to past criticisms and industry disputes. On "Pretty & Petty," she addresses a previous disagreement with fellow artist Bia. This track follows earlier exchanges, including a diss track from Bia. Cardi B's lyrics on "Pretty & Petty" are direct and confrontational.
"I’d rather die on the surgery table before I gotta walk around lookin’ like you," she raps, challenging her counterpart.
This continues a pattern of Cardi B using her music to address public challenges directly.
Musical Homages and Notable Collaborations
'Am I the Drama?' incorporates several samples from classic songs. This approach allows Cardi B to engage with timeless music, a stated goal of hers. She aims for her music to have lasting impact, similar to icons like Beyoncé and Madonna.
- "Imaginary Playerz" samples Jay-Z's track of a similar name.
- "Principle" flips Janet Jackson’s "Pleasure Principle."
- "What’s Going On" with Lizzo creatively samples 4 Non Blondes’ "What’s Up?"
- "Killin You Hoes" borrows a refrain from Trina’s 2008 song.
These samples are often signaled by the song titles themselves, making the references clear to listeners.
Kamala Harris Reference
Vice President Kamala Harris makes an appearance in Cardi B's lyrics. In "Magnet," Harris is mentioned in a line alongside a reference to Offset. Cardi B raps about "all my hoes who wear the pants like Kamala," juxtaposing this with her "baby daddy acting like my baby mama."
This lyric follows Cardi B's public support for Harris during her 2024 presidential campaign. During a rally speech in Milwaukee, Cardi B praised Harris, stating, "Women have to work 10 times harder, perform 10 times better, and still people question us, how we got to the top. I can’t stand a bully, but just like Kamala, I always stand up to one."
Political Shout-out
Kamala Harris's inclusion in a rap lyric marks a notable moment for political figures appearing in mainstream hip-hop. It highlights her role as a symbol of female leadership for some artists.
Guest Artists Bring Diverse Sounds
Despite earlier speculation, Beyoncé is not featured on the album. However, 'Am I the Drama?' includes several other significant collaborations that expand its musical scope.
Selena Gomez contributes to "Pick It Up," offering a blend of hip-hop and R&B. Her airy vocals provide a distinct sound, reminiscent of her earlier work that explored trap and R&B influences. This marks a new collaboration dynamic for Gomez and Cardi B, differing from their 2018 track "Taki Taki."
Summer Walker appears on two tracks, "Dead" and "Shower Tears." The pairing feels natural, given their shared experiences in the public eye, particularly concerning relationships and motherhood. Their collaborations offer a sense of mutual support and shared perspective.
On "Dead," both artists express resilience in the face of detractors. Cardi B previously advised Walker to "put that shit in your music and make money off it," a sentiment reflected in their joint efforts. "Shower Tears" further explores their shared emotional depth, showcasing their sensitivity.
These collaborations underscore Cardi B's ability to work across genres and create impactful tracks with diverse artists.