About this album
Where they were
Aziatic is AZ's third studio album, following his acclaimed debut, Doe or Die, released in 1995. By 2002, AZ was solidifying his status in hip-hop after the commercial success of his sophomore effort, 9 Lives, which had further established his lyrical abilities and unique style. This album reflects his continued evolution as an artist while navigating the changing landscape of early 2000s hip-hop.
Why it matters
Upon its release, Aziatic debuted at number 98 on the Billboard 200 chart, representing a solid presence amidst fierce competition. The album received positive reviews from critics who praised AZ's intricate wordplay and vivid storytelling, reinforcing his influence in the East Coast hip-hop scene. Its production also illustrated a seamless blend of classic and contemporary sounds, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners.
Essential tracks
- "Wanna Be There" — This track encapsulates AZ's smooth delivery and emotional depth as he reflects on relationships and personal aspirations.
- "The Essence" — A standout for its jazzy production, it highlights AZ’s lyrical dexterity and introspective themes about life and authenticity.
- "Hustler" — In this track, AZ confronts the struggles of street life with raw honesty, showcasing his ability to narrate compelling stories through vivid imagery.
- "I'm Back" — This track serves as a declaration of AZ's return to the forefront of hip-hop, featuring sharp verses that assert his enduring relevance.
Release Date
January 1, 2002
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Once Again 2:38
- 2 A-1 Performance 3:53
- 3 Wanna Be There 3:55
- 4 Take It Off 4:23
- 5 The Essence 3:29
- 6 Hands in the Air 4:14
- 7 Fan Mail 3:36
- 8 Paradise (Life) 2:54
- 9 Take Care of Me 3:41
- 10 I'm Back 3:12
- 11 Hustler 4:08
- 12 Rebirth 2:00
- 13 Aziatic (outro) 1:07
- 14 Doing Me 3:48
