After years of anticipation, Playboi Carti has finally dropped his third studio album, MUSIC, a sprawling 30-track masterpiece that hit streaming platforms on March 14, 2025. Released through AWGE and Interscope Records, this long-awaited follow-up to 2020’s Whole Lotta Red is already making waves, breaking Spotify’s record for the most-streamed album in a single day in 2025 so far. With a star-studded lineup of collaborators and a bold evolution in sound, Playboi Carti’s MUSIC album is a testament to his growth as an artist—and it’s got fans and critics buzzing. Here’s why this release is a defining moment in Carti’s career and how it showcases his journey from Atlanta’s underground to rap’s cutting edge.
A Long Road to 'MUSIC'
The road to MUSIC has been a rollercoaster. Carti first teased a new project back in March 2021, just months after Whole Lotta Red shook the rap world. Initially titled Narcissist, the album morphed over years of delays, snippets, and cryptic Instagram posts. By 2022, he’d settled on MUSIC—a name he told XXL reflected his headspace: “Music because that’s all it is at this point.” Recorded in a cave-like studio in Paris and tweaked relentlessly, the project became rap’s most anticipated drop, fueled by live previews like “All Red” at Lyrical Lemonade’s Summer Smash and cryptic billboards from Spotify saying “STREETS READY.”
On March 9, 2025, Carti announced it was finished. Three days later, he confirmed the March 14 release, and the 30-track behemoth arrived, featuring heavyweights like Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Future, Lil Uzi Vert, Skepta, Ty Dolla Sign, Jhené Aiko, and Young Thug. With production from legends like Kanye West, Metro Boomin, and F1lthy, Playboi Carti’s evolution is on full display—and it’s wilder than ever.
The Sound of Evolution
MUSIC isn’t just an album—it’s a sonic odyssey. Spanning 30 tracks, it’s Carti’s most ambitious project yet, blending the punk-trap chaos of Whole Lotta Red with new layers of experimentation. Gone is the heavy reliance on his “baby voice” from Die Lit (2018); instead, he leans into a deeper, raspier cadence that’s become his signature in this era. Tracks like “Evil J0rdan” and “HBA” (formerly “H00dByAir”)—previewed earlier on Instagram—bring a gritty, menacing energy, while “Rather Lie” and “Cocaine Nose” flirt with melodic vibes and hypnotic loops.
The production is a playground of innovation. F1lthy and Cardo’s heavy, distorted beats anchor the album, while Metro Boomin and Kanye West add cinematic flair. Samples pop up too—“Evil J0rdan” borrows from The Weeknd’s “Popular,” and “Backd00r” nods to Lil Wayne’s “Red Rum.” It’s a mix of rage-inducing bangers and introspective cuts, showcasing Playboi Carti’s musical growth from a mumble-rap pioneer to a genre-defying visionary.
Star Power and Standout Moments
The guest list on MUSIC reads like a who’s-who of modern hip-hop. Travis Scott’s trippy flow elevates “Crank,” while Kendrick Lamar’s razor-sharp bars on “Jumpin” remind us why he’s a GOAT. The Weeknd, fresh off collabs like “Timeless,” brings a haunting vibe to “Toxic,” and Future’s woozy energy shines on “Good Credit.” Lil Uzi Vert, a longtime Carti partner-in-crime, pops up on “Wake Up F1LTHY,” channeling their Die Lit-era chemistry.
But Carti’s the star here. Tracks like “Pop Out” and “HBA” are pure adrenaline, built for mosh pits and late-night drives. “Rather Lie” slows things down, revealing a vulnerable side rarely seen, while “Cocaine Nose” flexes his knack for catchy, off-kilter hooks. With 30 songs, there’s something for every mood—proof of Playboi Carti’s 2025 album pushing his artistry to new heights.
A Cultural Milestone
MUSIC isn’t just a drop—it’s a moment. Dropping five years after Whole Lotta Red redefined trap, it cements Carti’s role as a trendsetter. His influence on the “rage” subgenre—think distorted beats and chaotic energy—has birthed a wave of artists under his Opium label, like Ken Carson and Destroy Lonely. Now, with MUSIC, he’s raising the bar again, blending punk, rap, and experimental sounds into a 30-track epic that’s both divisive and addictive.
Spotify’s record-breaking streams—confirmed on March 15—show its instant impact. Posts on X call it everything from “his weakest project” to “a masterpiece,” reflecting Carti’s polarizing power. Love it or hate it, Playboi Carti’s evolution is undeniable—he’s not just riding waves; he’s making them.
How to Dive In
Missed the drop? Stream MUSIC on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you vibe. At 30 tracks, it’s a commitment—clocking in over 90 minutes—but worth it for the journey. Start with “Pop Out” for the hype, “Rather Lie” for the feels, or “HBA” for that classic Carti edge. Videos for “Evil J0rdan” and “2024” are on YouTube too, giving a visual taste of his dark, stylish world.
What’s Next for Carti?
With MUSIC out, the question is: where does Playboi Carti go from here? His 2024 teases—like “All Red” and “BACKR00MS”—kept fans on edge, and this album’s scope suggests he’s got more up his sleeve. Will he tour this beast? Drop more visuals? Keep evolving his sound? One thing’s clear: Playboi Carti’s 2025 album release isn’t the end—it’s a launchpad.
A New Chapter in Carti’s Legacy
Playboi Carti releases 30-track album MUSIC isn’t just a flex of quantity—it’s a showcase of his growth from Atlanta’s underground to a global icon. From the viral “Magnolia” days to the punk-trap of Whole Lotta Red, and now this sprawling, star-packed epic, Carti’s journey is one of reinvention. MUSIC is chaotic, bold, and unapologetic—just like him.
What’s your favorite track off MUSIC? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear how Carti’s evolution’s hitting you! Stay tuned for more as this album shakes up 2025.
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