THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY

VIC MENSA

2017

In the words of Vic Mensa himself; It all started when when Edward and Betsy Mensa "Made love and made a legend." Everything after that just left room for inspiration.

This album review will break down Vic Mensa's 2016 debut studio album: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY, and showcase the Chicago's rapper love for his city, and the hardships of keeping your humanity while growing up in tumultuous times.

The are very few albums that's I can just put on and play in it's entirety, and enjoy every single song that graces my ears. To me, THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY, is a comfort album for this reason. I find myself coming back to it in different era's of my own life and finding new appreciations for it.

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Vic Mensa - 2023

TRACKS 1-5

1. SAY I DIDN'T

2. MEMORIES ON 47TH STREET

3. ROLLIN LIKE A STONER

4. HOMEWRECKER

5. GORGEOUS

The introduction tracks: SAY I DIDN'T and MEMORIES ON 47TH STREET, effectively set the stage with a vivid depiction of VIC MENSA'S environment while growing up. The lyrics paint a raw picture of Vic's upbringing in Chicago, immediately immersing the listener in some of the harsh realities of urban life.

The contrast between the innocence of childhood and the harshness of the streets is starkly portrayed, reflecting Vic Mensa's personal experiences and the environment that shaped him. Memories on 47th Street serves not just as a recounting of events but as a crucial piece in understanding the layers of Vic Mensa's identity and the forces that shaped his artistry, A reoccurring theme throughout the album.

ROLLING LIKE A STONER was released as a single, prior to the drop of the album. in the sense of smoking a stupid amount of weed, but also moving like a Rolling Stone- the rockstar life where relationships don't last. That's not my speculation, though. Double-entrentre

The next two tracks, HOME WRECKER and GORGEOUS provide more backstory to his "rolling stone" lifestyle, depicting what one could consider a toxic relationship that doesn't make sense but feels right.

TRACKS 6-10

6. HEAVEN ON EARTH

7. CARD CRACKER (SKIT)

8. DOWN FOR SOME IGNORANCE

9. COFFEE & CIGARETTES

10. WINGS

The poignant song HEAVEN ON EARTH, showcases Vic's exceptional lyrical storytelling ability by weaving a narrative that is both heartbreaking and introspective. The track serves as a letter to his late friend Cam, who tragically lost his life. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics, Vic Mensa takes listeners on a journey through the complexities of their friendship and the events that led to Cam's untimely death.

"Dear Cam, I miss you, dawg, I hope you hear me up in heaven."

This opening sets a somber tone, immediately drawing listeners into the emotional weight of the narrative. The lyrics delve into themes of regret and retaliation, hinting at the turbulent circumstances surrounding Cam's death. Vic reflects on moments of betrayal and the pressures of street life, capturing the harsh realities of growing up in Chicago where violence and loss are all too familiar.

Off the tail of HEAVEN ON EARTH, is one of my favorite skit's of any album, ever. CRACKER CARD SKIT fondly crosses my mind often, fully memorized, for it's :

Man 1: "Yeah, what y'all get?"

Man 2: "What didn't we get? PlayStation 4, AirBnBs, smart TVs, dumb TVs, ATVs, Air Force 1s, 2s, 3s, 4s and them ain't even out yet. 10 pairs of Gucci flip flops, a Gucci stroller, a Moncler for D-Block's dog. Bought a chain from his jeweler, studio time, a Young Chop beat, a Backwoods forever, Robin jeans, some jeans from a robin, bunch of birds: parrots, parakeets, gluten free Harold's, 10 gallons of mild sauce, a hundred long fashion shirts. And the crazy part is, we set it all up to make it look like that mothafucka __ did it..."

Shakespeare.

COFFEE AND CIGARETTES produces a melancholic vibe throughout my mind when it plays.

TRACKS 11-15

11. HEAVEN ON EARTH

12. THE FIRE NEXT TIME

13. WE COULD BE FREE

14. RAGE

15. OMG

WE COULD BE FREE packs a lyrical punch with each line. Sorrowful for the hardships he witnesses his community experience, with a overall hopeful message of breaking free from generational chains. Love one another, and try seeing your fellow man as your own. Treat them accordingly.

RAGE is a bonus track on the album. I appreciate it for it's inspiring tone and allusion to another work. As the lyrics repeat: "rage into the night," it clicked that it was inspired by a 1951 poem by writer Dylan Thomas, Do not go gentle into that good night.

OMG are both bonus tracks. In all honestly, ending the album on OMG always felt a bit out of place with me. It's does not feel as impactful lyrically as either WE COULD BE FREE or RAGE are.

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CONCLUSION

In examining the discourse surrounding rap music, one often encounters the debate over its alleged promotion of violence. While some artists may indeed perpetuate this stereotype, Vic Mensa stands apart by using his music as a poignant narrative of real-life struggles and pain. His lyrics vividly depict the harsh realities of communities marred by violence, offering a raw and authentic portrayal rather than glorification.

For many artists like Vic Mensa, rap serves not as an embellishment but as a stark reflection of the challenges faced daily. It emerges as a powerful means of expression, capturing the turmoil and trauma experienced on the streets. Vic Mensa's journey from Chicago's south side exemplifies resilience and determination, turning adversity into opportunity through his artistry.

In "THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY," Vic Mensa masterfully blends contrasting themes, from infectious, upbeat tracks to introspective moments of melancholy. This dynamic approach underscores his ability to provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of his personal experiences and the broader social issues he confronts.

Ultimately, Vic Mensa's music challenges stereotypes and enriches the discourse around rap culture, highlighting its role as a platform for truth-telling and social commentary. His work underscores the profound impact of art in illuminating complex realities, offering listeners an opportunity for empathy and reflection.

WHAT'S VIC MENSA UP TO IN 2024?

Vic now works on growing the initiative "Feed the Block, Warm the Block", to bring food and clothing to the city’s unhoused population.