Ridin' Dirty cover

Ridin' Dirty

UGK

Album 1996

About this album

Sound: "A gritty blend of Southern hip-hop grooves and storytelling that lays bare the struggles of street life."

Where they were

Ridin' Dirty is UGK's third studio album, released during a pivotal moment in their career after their 1994 breakthrough, Super Tight. This album solidified their reputation in the Southern rap scene and showcased their evolving sound as they began to gain national prominence.

Why it matters

Ridin' Dirty received critical acclaim and has been recognized as a seminal work in Southern hip-hop, influencing countless artists in the genre. The title track reached number 100 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and is often cited for its raw depiction of street culture and lifestyle, contributing significantly to the 'Dirty South' movement.

Essential tracks

  • "Ridin’ Dirty" — The title track serves as an anthem for the Southern hip-hop scene, capturing the essence of UGK's storytelling prowess and cultural commentary.
  • "Diamonds & Wood" — This track highlights UGK's unique blend of luxury and struggle, showcasing their lyrical depth and melodic hooks that resonate with listeners.
  • "3 in the Mornin’" — With its haunting production and narrative-driven lyrics, this song exemplifies UGK's ability to convey complex emotions tied to street life.
  • "Murder" — This track confronts harsh realities with unflinching honesty, illustrating the dangers of street life while solidifying UGK's reputation for bold lyricism.

Release Date

July 30, 1996

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Intro 1:05
  2. 2 One Day 5:24
  3. 3 Murder 3:52
  4. 4 Pinky Ring 5:12
  5. 5 Diamonds & Wood 5:13
  6. 6 3 in the Mornin’ 5:41
  7. 7 Touched 5:04
  8. 8 Fuck My Car 3:59
  9. 9 That’s Why I Carry 5:38
  10. 10 Hi Life 5:25
  11. 11 Good Stuff 3:48
  12. 12 Ridin’ Dirty 5:32
  13. 13 Outro 9:26