Ok so, last Friday was my first time listening to Future’s new album ‘HNDRXX” and I must say I am astonished. Not only did it put me in the mood for the new Spring season that is taking way too long to come, but it also made me realize that maybe Future is not trash after all. That was a bit harsh, I know– but I am someone who not only appreciates great music but I I also recognize when it is pure rubbish (or complete fluff). With that being said, I want to tell you why HNDRXX is great!

Let’s get started.

To begin, a few of the headlines for reviews of the album are entitled “Future Thrives as a Hitmaker on  ‘HNDRXX’ album” and “Future shows his sensitive side.” I think I agree with these headlines. One of the things that I appreciate the most about this album is that I can actually understand him. Future not only gives his audience anecdotes into his personal life, but we can actually understand him when he enunciates his words. Part of the reason I was never a huge Future fan was because I had a hard time relating to any of his lyrics, partially because I could not understand them. Yes, I can admit he had some great beats and tunes to back him up, which made a tremendous difference, but as far as speaking plain, easy-to-understand english… well, you may know the rest.

Author, Patrick Lyons, for Hot New Hip Hop quotes  “HNDRXX is the product of pain, patience, and meditation, and it could very well be Future’s best album yet.” Again, I completely agree.

The lyrics:

They said I couldn’t reach Mars, so I turned to a star.

This line is from the song “Coming out Strong” featuring The Weekend. Throughout the song, both artists explain how those who doubted them are able to see their success from the front row. They explain that they will (if they have not already) “Come out Strong” as the title suggests. This song represents empowerment; even when those who doubt you try to tear you down, you must thrive through all of the trials and tribulations that you are faced with.

In  “I Thank U,” Future carries on to say this:

I can see it written all over your face
You doubted me from the first day
And it never went away
So I say this…
Girl I thank you, I thank you
I thank you
‘Cause you made me hustle

He continues highlighting all the times that he has been underestimated. Instead of being discouraged and distraught, he proceeded in “hustling” so that one day he never would be in the position to be humiliated by those who did so in the past. Most importantly, he recognizes that the doubt from the people who surrounded him in the past was actually needed. If he had not received so many critiques and negative energy, he would not have had the courage and endurance to go forth and chase his dreams.

This is a reminder to all of us: even when people try to throw dirt on our names, they will only be helping us; for we are seeds and we shall grow.

Til next time.