Rick Ross
God Forgives, I Don’t
(Island Def Jam Music Group)

Rick Ross, a Miami-based rapper, a.k.a. “The Bawse,” is back with his fifth solo album, God Forgives, I Don’t. This bearded hip-hop sensation who raps with his shades on has collaborated with top producers J.U.S.T.I.C.E., Rico Love and League to create polished, alluring tunes.

From rags to riches, Ross is an innate storyteller with soul; it’s a transition for the “self made millionaire.” Port of Miami, Trilla, and Teflon Don reached gold level and God Forgives, I Don’t became the top-purchased album on iTunes recently.

“Hold Me Back” is his current single and the video depicts the life he had before becoming famous. Ross excessively repeats “these niggas won’t hold me back” about fifty times or more with rage. On “3 Kings,” Ross continues to talk about the constant drive for money and features Jay-Z and Dr. Dre.

“911” has an addictive chorus with a 90’s rap appeal and religious ties, “I bow my head/I pray to God/Survival of the fittest/Help me hold my chopper lord.” Meek Mill takes over on “So Sophisticated,” with fast-paced verses and Ross holding true to his lyricist capabilities.

Many of the songs have similar underlying themes of the rich lifestyle, the struggles, and Ross’s heath issues. He needs to slow down with the repetition, yet each song is a distinctive attribute to The Bawse finding himself again.