2 weeks ago, everyone in the world was talking about Big Sean’s song "Control" which featured Kendrick Lamar and Jay Electronica. The song was significant because it reminded everyone that Hip Hop should be a competition. Unfortunately this song didn’t make the cut for Big Sean’s sophomore album due to sampling issues.
With rappers such as J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar and Drake being on top of the rap game right now, Big Sean makes his presence felt with his sophomore release. In "Hall of Fame," he tries to back up his lyrics “tryna be better than everybody that’s better than everybody” on his "Control" verse.
Big Sean got his start after he snuck backstage in a Detroit radio station after his friend told him Kanye West was around. He got the opportunity to rap for Kanye West and after impressing Kanye, they kept in touch. The leading track "Nothing is Stopping You" talks about the same thing happening to him where a fan rapped for him just like he did for Kanye. The point of the song is to inspire people to follow their dreams no matter the obstacles they face. Big Sean got help from Jhene Aiko and Lil Wayne for the album’s lead single "Beware." He uses his personal experience with a dysfunctional relationship to create a story that a lot of people can relate to. With regards to relationships, he dedicates a song “Ashley” to his ex-girlfriend who stood by his side early on his career.
My favorite track on the album is "First Chain." In this track he recruits Hip Hop heavy weights Nas and Kid Cudi to illustrate their experiences behind their first piece of jewelry. This song is great because it shows how important your first chain or watch was that it becomes a part of you. You work so hard to earn money for it and once you finally purchase it, you don’t leave home without it. Big Sean also released 2 singles “Guap” and “Switch Up” which can be found on the deluxe version of the album. In an interview with Billboard, Big Sean gives a track-by-track breakdown of Hall of Fame.
This album is great because it shows his growth from his first album, and there’s a song in it for everyone.