Chris Brown is always finding a way to redeem himself.  His recent form of redemption is his new song “Shabba” that features Wiz Kid, Hoody Baby, and Section Boyz. Though the topic of paying homage to Shabba Ranks has already been made into a song by A$AP Ferg, I’d say there’s room for a couple more! Clearly Shabba Ranks is associated with the fast and flashy lifestyle, and many want to emulate. This is cool in a way considering different artists are able to pay tribute in their own specific ways and sounds.

Chris Brown’s “Shabba” is more smooth and has his signature R&B twist to it. It’s not as trap and beat heavy as A$AP Ferg’s version and features more tones of the dance hall aesthetic. Considering the features Chris has included in this song it is also more versatile and unique. One thing that couldn’t be left out was the gold rings and chains though. They were just iconic!

It’s good to see Chris bring in talent from different countries. The Nigerian new comer Wiz Kid and London’s very own Section Boyz and Hoody Baby bring a sound that no other popular artist in America could today. Considering the fact that dance hall is on the rise, this may have been an attempt to stay in the now by mentioning the great Shabba Ranks.

All in all it is great to see different artist intermingling sounds. It seems like the older generations are always talking down on us for our music choices. I’d say its just an experimental stage, and this song definitely embodies the different aesthetics coming together for one huge collaboration we’ve haven’t fully experienced before. Hip- Hop is coming back to life in its own way!

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