Kanye West | Donda Review
I decided to dissect what others haven’t.
Kanye West seems like he’s been going through some emotional and spiritual torment this year.
Many critics have said that it’s the worst album by far, or some artists called it out as “wild garbage,” something that “hedge fund bros” would listen to. However, the album has a uniquely deep meaning behind it and there’s lots of speculation going around. Instead of jumping on the bandwagon to declare that Drake’s new album, Certified Lover Boy, beats Donda — I decided to dissect what others haven’t.
I would say though, that Donda’s deep meaning doesn’t mean that it’s original — I agree with a lot of people about how rehashing nostalgic vibes can lead to looking like the songs aren’t original at all and were just “remixed.”
Some of his songs still shine when it comes to the elements he typically instills in his previous albums. His theme strikes grandeur, power, and intensity.
Here are my top three picks:
New Again
New Again embraces rejuvenation, a gospel version of one of his classics — Flashing Lights. Chris Brown’s vocals elevate the song, in ways that I haven’t heard him sing anything gospel-related, “Thank You for Your mercy, make me new again.” Usually, there’s an element of power, money, and status in his previous songs, but the lyrics, “Most insane out-of-body experience
And I repent for everything I’ma do again (I accept Him)” is alluding to Kanye probably having a grounded experience that’s difficult to explain.
Believe What I say
Arguably the best on the album, taking Ms. Lauryn Hil’s classic song Doo Wop and spinning it into an important message: ‘Don’t let, don’t let the lifestyle drag you down, Who knows when was the last time you felt the love.” Overall, it’s also about how a superficial life will make you face reality and what you’re taking for granted.
Lord, I Need You
It’s a touching song about his relationship with Kim Kardashian. The lyrics talk about what value she brought in his life, and how he’s having a hard time coming to terms with the divorce. He’s wondering if there will ever be healing, after multiple arguments and the reasons why Kim decided to separate from him.
