Bobby Ray Simmons is a man of many hats. The Atlanta-based artist–who goes by the oddly generic stage name B.o.B.–makes waves as a rapper, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and record producer. And as of this week, he can now add the title of “chart topper” to this ever-growing list.
His first official single “Nothin’ On You” has just surpassed Rihanna‘s “Rude Boy” to become the number one song on this week’s Billboard Hot 100, and this victory directly coincides with the release of his debut album The Adventures of Bobby Ray. But does he live up to the hype?
Well, one thing’s for sure… Kanye West better watch his back. Though certain tracks on the project take B.o.B.’s genre-fucking a little too far, the risk is generally worth the payoff. You can turn your nose up at the lackluster Rivers Cuomo collaboration “Magic”, but there’s no denying that Bobby sounds like a true rock star on second single “Airplanes”.
Whereas artists such as Lupe Fiasco or Kid Cudi previously toyed with the idea of merging hip-hop and rock culture for a modern mainstream audience, B.o.B. pulls it off in a fashion that seems both inclusive and uplifting. Don’t expect him to go away any time soon.
– Dewitt
To listen to select songs from this album, follow the JUMP:
The Betty White music video is funny, and just a little scary at the same time. 😀
Love Airplanes, wish B.o.B all the best in his career!
Dewitt, where’s the RuPaul Drag Race finale post?!
Airplanes was cool, the rest may grow on me later.
Airplanes is a beautiful song, even though I don’t like M&M…