Travis Scott’s “Astroworld” storms through the charts

The Houston emcee delivered a great album after years of endless hype.

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David LaChapelle

Album cover for Travis Scott’s new album “Astroworld”

After almost two years of immense hype and anticipation, Travis Scott’s third LP “Astroworld” was finally released on August 3rd, 2018, to the praise of fans and critics alike. Pitchfork went as far as to say that it’s his “strongest album to date.” With features from the likes of Kid Cudi, Migos, and The Weeknd, the Houston rapper went all-out with this new album, and the result was fireworks.

Astroworld debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 100, selling a massive 537,000 album-equivalent units in the first week, the second highest first week of the year aside from superstar Drake’s Scorpion. Scott’s success drew the ire of Nicki Minaj, who was furious that her album release was overshadowed by Scott’s second week sales. The Queen’s femcee claimed that Scott relied on Kylie Jenner’s promotion and the bundling of his album with his merchandise. However, what she failed to realize was that she also included her album in a bundle to generate more sells, making herself look foolish in the process.

One track that’s clearly stood out as a fan favorite is banger “SICKO MODE.” After a major tease in the beginning and a solid showing from Scott and Rae Sremmurd, member Swae Lee, Drake’s verse at the end has become a major highlight on the album. The Toronto rapper’s verse is so infectious, it’s almost impossible not to nod your head in awe as he effortlessly glides over the Tay Keith beat.

Pictures of Drake (left) and Travis Scott (right) side-by-side.

Another song that fans have become particularly attached to is “STOP TRYING TO BE GOD.” With a collaboration with Stevie Wonder, of all people, as well as the soulful hums Kid Cudi is famous for, it’s no wonder this song has gotten so much attention. The harmonica-laced hook was also a unique yet surprisingly effective direction for the auto-tuned MC to take.

Critics have fallen in love with this album almost as much as Scott’s fanbase. NME gave the album 5 stars, writing “This is the sound of a musician who has worked to forge an entire world, an empire, around himself.” Rolling Stone also sung the album’s praises, writing “Astroworld marks the first time that his music has actually matched the aspirations of his art-crunk bluster, rock-star stage dives and aisle-crossing fashions.”

After the release of the album, Scott announced his “Astroworld: Wish You Were Here” tour. The rapper will be performing in Tampa on November 12th at the Amalie Arena. Make sure to get your tickets now; as prices are skyrocketing as each day passes. You can stream Astroworld on Apple Music or Spotify.

A promotional poster for Scott’s Astroworld tour.

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