The Untouchable cover

The Untouchable

Scarface

Album 1997

About this album

Sound: "A gritty exploration of street life layered with soulful melodies and razor-sharp lyrics."

Where they were

By 1997, Scarface had established himself as a key figure in Southern hip-hop, following his critically acclaimed album 'The Diary' from 1994. 'The Untouchable' served as his fifth studio album, further solidifying his reputation for introspective storytelling amidst the backdrop of gangsta rap. This release came during a pivotal moment in the genre when Southern artists were gaining more mainstream recognition.

Why it matters

'The Untouchable' debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Rap Albums chart and featured tracks that resonated deeply within the hip-hop community. The album's critical reception highlighted Scarface's lyrical depth and authenticity, influencing countless artists in the genre and contributing to the rise of Southern rap in the late '90s.

Essential tracks

  • "Untouchable" — The title track encapsulates Scarface's narrative style, blending personal reflection with an assertive declaration of his untouchable status in the rap game.
  • "Smile" — 'Smile' features a poignant collaboration with Tupac Shakur, showcasing themes of resilience and vulnerability that resonate throughout the album.
  • "Mary Jane" — This track offers a unique perspective on relationships through the metaphor of marijuana, illustrating Scarface's ability to tackle complex subjects with creativity.

Release Date

March 11, 1997

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Intro 0:56
  2. 2 Untouchable 4:13
  3. 3 No Warning 2:36
  4. 4 Southside 2:13
  5. 5 Sunshine 3:53
  6. 6 Money Makes the World Go Round 4:29
  7. 7 For Real 4:32
  8. 8 Ya Money or Ya Life 5:19
  9. 9 Mary Jane 4:41
  10. 10 Smile 5:00
  11. 11 Smartz 5:05
  12. 12 Faith 5:57
  13. 13 Game Over 4:50
  14. 14 Outro 1:47