About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of Southern hip-hop grooves and braggadocious lyricism that captures the party atmosphere of early 2000s Atlanta."

Where they were

Released on October 7, 2003, 'Chicken-n-Beer' was Ludacris's fourth studio album, following his acclaimed release 'Word of Mouf' in 2001. At this point in his career, he had solidified his status as a leading voice in the Southern hip-hop scene and was gaining mainstream recognition. This album showcased his ability to balance humor with serious themes while continuing to push the boundaries of hip-hop production.

Why it matters

The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, further establishing Ludacris's commercial appeal. It features the hit single 'Stand Up,' which received significant radio play and contributed to Ludacris winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2004. Its playful yet poignant exploration of Southern culture resonated widely, influencing a generation of artists within the genre.

Essential tracks

  • "Stand Up" — 'Stand Up' is an anthem of empowerment with a catchy hook that exemplifies Ludacris's unique ability to craft club bangers with substance.
  • "Splash Waterfalls" — This track combines smooth production with clever wordplay, showcasing Ludacris’s storytelling prowess and charm.
  • "Hard Times" — 'Hard Times' stands out for its introspective lyrics that address personal struggles, offering a glimpse into the artist's vulnerability amidst the party vibes.
  • "P-Poppin’" — 'P-Poppin’' features infectious beats and playful lyrics, highlighting Ludacris's signature style while capturing the essence of crunk music prevalent during this era.

Release Date

October 7, 2003

Artist Origin

Gabon

Tracklist

  1. 1 Southern Fried Intro 3:55
  2. 2 Blow It Out 4:05
  3. 3 Stand Up 3:33
  4. 4 Rob Quarters Skit 1:04
  5. 5 Splash Waterfalls 4:50
  6. 6 Hard Times 5:15
  7. 7 Diamond in the Back 4:12
  8. 8 Screwed Up 4:52
  9. 9 T Baggin’ Skit 0:53
  10. 10 P-Poppin’ 4:49
  11. 11 Hip Hop Quotables 3:09
  12. 12 Black Man’s Struggle Skit 0:35
  13. 13 Hoes in My Room 4:40
  14. 14 Teamwork 3:46
  15. 15 Interactive Skit 1:03
  16. 16 We Got 4:21
  17. 17 Eyebrows Down 5:20