21 Savage’s ‘American Dream’ Review

By Amsal Madhani

21 Savage’s “American Dream” is a significant milestone in the Atlanta rapper’s career, presenting a deep and complex narrative that delves into themes of ambition, resilience, and survival within the American milieu. Debuting atop the US Billboard 200, this album not only solidifies 21 Savage’s place among rap’s elite but also highlights his development as an artist and storyteller.

Central to “American Dream” is Savage’s personal and societal exploration, particularly evident in tracks like “letter to my brudda” and “see the real.” These songs oscillate between vulnerability and assertiveness, offering insights into Savage’s life and the broader struggles of overcoming adversity.

In “see the real,” Savage delves into his journey as a renowned artist and how the individuals who were part of his life before the fame have yet to adjust to their lives under the spotlight. He discusses the “hustler” mindset that his friends continue to share with him to this day, and ponders over the reasons he still keeps them close despite his ascent to stardom.

Building on this theme, “letter to my brudda” further deepens Savage’s narrative of empathy and camaraderie. Through the song, he communicates a deep comprehension of the reasons behind people’s actions and behaviors, drawing from his own life’s journey to resonate with anyone who has faced significant challenges outside their control during their upbringing. These challenges, as Savage reveals, encompassed striving to secure financial stability, navigating an environment dominated by gang presence, and the overarching goal of transcending the limitations imposed by his neighborhood. His narrative not only shares his personal saga, but also serves as a bridge connecting with those enduring similar struggles.

The album’s emotional depth is further enriched by soulful samples and synth lines, showcasing Savage’s ability to blend introspection with his typically robust persona. He thoughtfully placed “see the real” earlier in the album as corresponded with the upbeat, high-tempo style tracks that began the project. He then chose to put “letter to my brudda” closer to the end as the slow-paced and mellow instrumental signaled a near end to the album.

While tracks such as ‘pop ur shit’ adhere to traditional Atlanta trap influences, they’ve faced criticism for lyrical content. Despite this, they highlight Savage’s versatility and ability to mix serious themes with a lighter touch, appealing to a broad audience.

Critics have praised the album for capturing the American dream’s dualities, reflecting both the stark realities of street life and Savage’s determination to excel in hip-hop. This balance has resonated with audiences, further cementing his status in the genre.

“One of 21 Savage’s unheralded strengths is that he knows how to create compelling albums with de rigueur elements… In a less capable artist’s hands, American Dream could come off like industry hackwork. One gets the sense that 21 remains on top of his game even if he’s not quite pushing himself,” Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone.

Despite its strengths, “American Dream” has its shortcomings. Tracks like “Sneaky” and “Redrum” might not carry the same level of depth or innovation as others, showcasing instances where the album’s ambition outpaces its delivery. However, these moments hardly diminish the album’s overall effect. Instead, they highlight the human element of Savage’s artistry — his readiness to navigate a spectrum of emotions and narratives, even if the outcomes vary. These tracks, while perhaps not meeting the high bar set by the rest of the album, serve to illustrate Savage’s boldness in musical experimentation and thematic exploration.

“American Dream” stands as a reflective diary of 21 Savage’s journey, blending personal stories with societal observations. This album showcases his artistic evolution and offers a lens through which to view the American experience’s complexities. With its introspective lyrics and diverse musicality, the album positions 21 Savage as a distinctive voice in rap, enriching the genre and inviting reflection on contemporary life and identity.