About this album

Sound: "A raw and fragmented exploration of vulnerability, laced with emotional intensity and minimalist production."

Where they were

Released posthumously on December 7, 2018, 'Skins' marked XXXTentacion's first album after his untimely death earlier that year. At this point in his career, he had already established himself as a controversial figure in music, known for blending genres and addressing personal struggles in his work, following the commercial success of his debut album '17'.

Why it matters

'Skins' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, making it XXXTentacion's second consecutive chart-topping album. The album's release sparked discussions around the ethics of posthumous releases and highlighted the impact of his artistry on a generation grappling with mental health issues.

Essential tracks

  • "Train food" — This track encapsulates XXXTentacion's introspective style, blending haunting production with poignant lyrics about loss and isolation.
  • "BAD!" — 'BAD!' features an infectious beat and showcases XXXTentacion’s ability to merge aggressive rap with melodic elements, contributing to his unique sound.
  • "whoa (mind in awe)" — With its ethereal production and contemplative lyrics, this track exemplifies the emotional depth that characterizes much of XXXTentacion's work.
  • "I don’t let go" — The track stands out for its vulnerable lyrics and minimalist arrangement, reflecting themes of addiction and emotional struggle.

Release Date

December 7, 2018

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Introduction 0:31
  2. 2 Guardian angel 1:48
  3. 3 Train food 2:44
  4. 4 whoa (mind in awe) 2:37
  5. 5 BAD! 1:34
  6. 6 STARING AT THE SKY 1:25
  7. 7 One Minute 3:17
  8. 8 difference (interlude) 1:16
  9. 9 I don’t let go 2:01
  10. 10 what are you so afraid of 2:30