Big Sean

The artist known as Big Sean has recently released the much talked about "Control," appeared on a song with girlfriend Naya Rivera and dropped his highly anticipated album, Hall of Fame. Continuing from where his debut, Finally Famous, left off, Big Sean opens Hall of Fame with the positively charged "Nothing is Stopping You." Reflecting upon his success, it becomes evident that progress is the backbone of this album. He dives into this theme deeper with "You Don't Know," featuring Ellie Goulding, which explores EDM production, and the money-hungry "Guap." Despite his victories, Big Sean humbles himself with personal songs about family and love. "Ashley," featuring Miguel, reflects on a pre-fame past relationship, while "Fire" places emphasis on pushing through personal struggles. Likewise, Big Sean enlists Nas and former G.O.O.D. Music labelmate Kid Cudi on "First Chain" to speak on the tangible goods that epitomize their success. Produced by No I.D. and Key Wane, "First Chain" embodies the themes of Hall of Fame in its entirety: growth, change, triumph and the materialistic gains. While Hall of Fame escapes the dreaded sophomore curse, it doesn't do so unscathed. Mid-album, the project is stalled by the uncomfortable "Freaky" interlude and "M.I.L.F." Despite a character verse from Nicki Minaj, the juvenile "M.I.L.F." is neither a party song like "Mona Lisa" nor a radio-hit like "Mula (Remix)," ultimately leaving much to be desired. Needless to say, Big Sean may not have solidified his position in the rap hall of fame, but is certainly in the process of paving his way.