RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n) by A$AP Rocky | Song Review

A brief look at the Harlem native’s latest single

Listen to RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n): Apple Music | Spotify

A$AP Rocky blesses us once again with his latest single “RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n)”, his first taste of new music is a contrast from the slower ballad that was “Same Problems?”. This Pharell-produced banger has already become a live show staple in Rocky’s recent performances in the last year, so finally getting the CDQ version feels like a dream come true.

Those familiar with Pharrell's style are going to feel right at home with this one. His signature 4-count start kicks the song off, the use of bouncy 808s, blown-out bass, and trumpets helps give the song a moshpit-ready feel. The instrumentals here are more minimal than the layered nuances of his other singles such as “D.M.B.” but that isn’t to say it's a bad thing. While it’s a step away from his more “trap meets psychedelic” style, this stripped-back production works well here.

Flow wise Rocky has always been a versatile rapper and there’s no exception to the rule here. He channels a “Smells Like Teen Spirit” melody on the song’s chorus while his trademark triplet flow embodies the choruses. Rocky’s style and bravado are apparent through his cadences, he sounds like he almost never left.

In true Pretty Flacko fashion, “RIOT” is nothing but straight flexing from the Harlem native. He brags about getting his designer clothes for free (“I just call designers up, I free ninety-nine it.”). He gives praise to his girl (“Pass on the sweetie, I got me a RiRi.”) while also hinting at another potential collab with her at the end of the second chorus. Rocky’s cheeky lines are present throughout, very much in the standard affair of his past work.

Overall, “RIOT” is a short, simple taste of what is hopefully to come from A$AP Rocky’s next album. This latest single is a bold flex from the rapper over a bass-heavy beat that should keep fans satisfied as Rocky continues to drip-feed us with more music. It’s evident that Rocky season might finally be upon us, and with releases expected from heavy hitters like Travis Scott and Drake in the next few months, we might finally be out of this drought that hip-hop found itself in throughout 2023.

Final Rating: 7/10