About this album
Sound:
"A gritty exploration of personal triumph and struggle set against hard-hitting beats and intricate lyricism."
Where they were
By 2011, Royce da 5'9" was revitalizing his career after years of ups and downs. 'Success Is Certain' followed his acclaimed collaboration with Eminem on the 'Hell: The Sequel' EP, marking a significant return to form as he embraced both his lyrical prowess and commercial viability.
Why it matters
'Success Is Certain' was well-received both commercially and critically, debuting at number 17 on the US Billboard 200. Critics praised its introspective lyrics and production quality, solidifying Royce's status within the hip-hop community.
Essential tracks
- "Legendary" — This opening track sets the tone for the album, showcasing Royce's confidence and lyrical braggadocio over a powerful beat, making it a statement piece.
- "Writer’s Block" — In 'Writer’s Block', Royce reflects on the struggles of creativity, delivering poignant verses that resonate with artists facing self-doubt.
- "Merry Go Round" — 'Merry Go Round' highlights Royce's storytelling ability, exploring themes of life's cyclical nature through vivid imagery and a catchy hook.
- "I Ain’t Coming Down" — This track features an infectious chorus and embodies the determination present throughout the album, emphasizing resilience amidst adversity.
Release Date
January 1, 2011
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Legendary 4:49
- 2 Writer’s Block 4:35
- 3 Merry Go Round 2:40
- 4 Where My Money 3:14
- 5 ER 2:54
- 6 On the Boulevard 3:47
- 7 I Ain’t Coming Down 3:44
- 8 Security 3:39
- 9 Second Place 3:46
- 10 My Own Planet 3:36
- 11 I’ve Been Up, I’ve Been Down 4:13
