Travis Scott, one of the most influential yet polarising figures in contemporary rap, has re-released his seminal 2014 mixtape 'Days Before Rodeo' in honour of its 10th anniversary.
This re-release, now available on streaming platforms for the first time, offers a chance to revisit the project that solidified Scott’s place in the music world and set the stage for his future dominance in the genre.
Originally dropped on August 18, 2014, 'Days Before Rodeo' was Travis Scott’s second major project, following his debut mixtape 'Owl Pharaoh'. The 12-track mixtape, released via Grand Hustle Records, was a bold statement that showcased Scott's burgeoning style; a psychedelic blend of trap, drenched in a futuristic, sci-fi atmosphere. The mixtape became an underground classic, revered by fans for its innovative sound and the way it introduced the world to Scott's unique musical vision.
Tracks like “Don’t Play,” featuring The 1975 and Big Sean, and “Mamacita,” featuring Rich Homie Quan and Young Thug, stood out not only for their cross-genre appeal but also for their ability to break the conventional barriers of rap music at the time. The mixtape also featured other high-profile collaborations, including “Skyfall” with Young Thug and “Sloppy Toppy” with Migos and Peewee Longway, further solidifying Scott's role as a curator of the then-emerging trap sound.
Listening to 'Days Before Rodeo' in 2024 is a nostalgic experience that also feels remarkably fresh. Tracks like “Days Before Rodeo: The Prayer” and “Zombies” continue to resonate with their eerie, spine-tingling production, while “Backyard” remains a defining anthem in Scott's discography. The mixtape’s influence can be heard across today's rap landscape, with many of the production techniques and stylistic choices Scott employed becoming staples in the genre.
The re-release comes with the promise of bonus cuts, potentially including unreleased tracks from the *Days Before Rodeo* era, offering a definitive edition of the mixtape that will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. As Travis Scott himself excitedly announced on social media, this re-release is more than just a nostalgic trip—it's a celebration of the foundation upon which he built his career.
'Days Before Rodeo' was more than just a mixtape; it was a cultural moment. It represented a time when Travis Scott was seen as a unifying force in the rap community, before the controversies that would later mar his reputation. The mixtape's re-release comes at a time when Scott’s legacy is being reassessed, particularly in the wake of the mixed reception to his 2023 album 'UTOPIA' and the ongoing fallout from the Astroworld tragedy.
Yet, 'Days Before Rodeo' serves as a reminder of Scott's undeniable talent and the raw energy that first captured the world's attention. It’s a project that highlights his ability to blend genres, push boundaries, and create a sound that was both ahead of its time and deeply rooted in the hip-hop tradition.
With the re-release of 'Days Before Rodeo,' Travis Scott not only pays homage to his roots but also reintroduces a pivotal work to a new generation of listeners. As the mixtape hits streaming platforms for the first time, it stands as a testament to Scott’s enduring influence on the rap genre and his ability to create music that transcends time.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or someone discovering Scott’s early work for the first time, *Days Before Rodeo* is essential listening; an artefact of a moment when Travis Scott was on the cusp of greatness, and a blueprint for the future of rap music.
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