T.I. is among an elite group of rappers that dominated the charts without sacrificing his integrity as a hip-hop artist. However, since his release from prison, he has found it hard regaining his musical popularity. With a stale mixtape and singles failing to generate any buzz, fans are forced to relish in Tip’s past projects. One project in particular is his debut, I’m Serious.
Tip, who was 20 at the time of the LP’s release, told stories of a young man growing up in the streets of Atlanta. Many listeners (myself included) may not have experienced what he detailed, but his illustrative storytelling was so vivid listeners could easily visualize the story. Looking back, I’m Serious is one of the more underrated rap debuts in recent history.
The Neptunes crafted the beat and provided the hook for “What’s Yo Name,” a gem from the LP. It introduced us to the charismatic, arrogant, “trouble man” we know and love today. It’s also one of the first times we heard Tip refer to himself as the “King of Da South.” His consistency with reigning instrumentals is why disputing the assertion eventually grew wildly unpopular.
