Ab-Soul, renowned for his unique artistry, is demanding respect and recognition for his latest album, “Soul Burger.”
On Monday, December 16, Ab-Soul took to social media platform X to express his frustrations. He feels his work is being unjustly ignored. In a bold statement, he declared, “Soul Burger is a phenomenal body of work. I put it all on the table. Stop pretending to overlook me.”
This album, released in November, includes 15 tracks featuring talented artists like Lupe Fiasco and Vince Staples, among others. Ab-Soul is not shy about its value, stating fiercely, “I will be heard. Mark my word.” His determination underscores a deeper narrative in the hip-hop world, where many artists feel overshadowed.
Interestingly, the album carries personal significance. It includes a posthumous feature from his friend Armon “Doe Burger” Stringer, who passed away in 2021. This relationship shaped not only the album’s content but its very essence. In a conversation with DJ Hed, Ab-Soul shared that the concept of “Soul Burger” was birthed through Doe Burger’s influence.
Ab-Soul says, “He wasn’t no hype man or hangaround; he was really my big homie. He was really the star of it. I just been tryna channel him.” With these words, he highlights the emotional depth of his work, making it a collaborative art form, even posthumously.
The artist’s transformation is evident, both personally and professionally. “To where this album is not me – it’s Soul Burger,” he shares, suggesting a fusion of energies and artistic souls. He sees “Soul Burger” as a new identity rather than just another album in his catalog.
Despite this, Ab-Soul’s journey is not just about music; it’s about legacy and the pursuit of acknowledgment on his terms. As he navigates the intricate dynamics of recognition in the hip-hop industry, his voice grows stronger.
Ab-Soul’s stance is clear: “Soul Burger” is not just another album; it’s a testament to his artistic prowess and his late friend’s impact. Whether or not the world is listening, Ab-Soul vows to make them hear, highlighting the timeless struggle for recognition among artists.
