Issue 63
The revival of chopped and screwed is here. Metro Boomin and 21 Savage album SAVAGE MODE II that was released about a month ago just got a Chopped Not Slopped version, and I’m all for it.
For those who needs a reminder or haven’t heard of the concept, Chopped And Screwed used to be a big thing in the 90’s and 00’s. Invented in Houston by DJ Screw (hence the name of the ”sub-genre”), Chopped And Screwed is a style where one remixes an album to be slowed down, often repeating a few lines here and there, almost like a hip hop DJ doing their magic in slow motion. Today, it’s also referred to as Chopped Not Slopped because DJ Screw needs to be involved in the remix for it being an official Chopped And Screwed version.
But for SAVAGE MODE II (Chopped Not Slopped) version, Metro Boomin and 21 Savaged managed to get OG Ron C to Chop and Slop it. Ron C was one of the founders of the sub-genre when it all began, some 40 years ago.
The name comes from DJ Screw, and the style is often referred to as the lean version, as the slowed down tempo resembles the effect you’d have if you’d listen to the original album but while under the influence of sipping lean – the mix of cough syrup and soda – a popular drug mix in the hip hop community.
Accompanying this release, I’ve brought together some other tracks as well.
Have a good one 🍻
SAVAGE MODE II (Chopped Not Slopped)
21 Savage and Metro Boomin
The slowed down version of the original album. It’s not for everyone, but can have its moments. I see it as a nice piece of art, combining hip hop lifestyle with the music as one.
Bop It
Kenny Beats, Polo G, Fivio Foreign
The most trending underground rapper (Polo G), with the hottest trap rapper (Fivio Foreign) and the star-producer (Kenny Beats) in one track – what can go wrong? (Almost nothing)
One Way Flight
Benny the Butcher, Freddie Gibbs
Benny the Butcher just released his album, Burden of Proof. It’s a straight up BARS album that truly delivers. Perfect flow, good story-telling, real stories. Pays hommage to Memphis Bleek and Jay Z in the album as well – I have nothing to complain about. Give the entire album a listen – it’s worth it. Here’s a dope collaboration with Freddie Gibbs from said album.
Glock In My Lap
21 Savage, Metro Boomin
While the Chopped Not Slopped album is featured above, I believe it’s necessary to feature a great song from the ”original” album here as well. Glock in My Lap has that nasty sounding beat that’s like a gift that keeps on giving.
Stay Down
Lil Durk, 6LACK, Young Thug
I remember listening to Lil Durk’s album Signed To The Streets, and in particular the song Dis Ain’t What U Want in 2013 and hyping up for the potential he had. I guess he partially delivered – being in the industry still – but he’s one of those artists where I still enjoy the oldies more than the new stuff unfortunately. Might be for nostalgia but it is what it is.