21 Savage - The Slaughter Tape

The Slaughter Tape, 21 Savage's debut mixtape, was released in May 2015 via self-production. It is a raw document of Atlanta trap at its inception. Far from the standards of the time but grounded in a specific sonic reality, it marks the beginning of his recognition in alternative hip-hop.

A sonic architecture dominated by Zaytoven and Metro Boomin

The production revolves around an eclectic palette that defines the sound of trap during this period. It features contributions from major names like Zaytoven, whose signature is present on Pimp and Start Dying, as well as Metro Boomin, credited on Drip. This diversity is accompanied by other producers such as Fukk 12, DJ Plugg, TrapMoneyBenny, and Mercy. However, this sonic architecture is often described as representative of "YouTube" beats, recorded through a flipped mobile phone, which gives the tracks a particular texture.

A mix considered inferior with "flip phone" beats

The overall listening experience of the album is marred by a mix that is considered inferior, often described as "trash." The flows are characterized as stiff, and the delivery on certain tracks is literally screechy, rendering several songs completely inaudible according to critics. This technical approach results in some tracks sounding like unfinished drafts that the artist apparently forgot to delete from his computer. The production is heterogeneous with a palette ranging from Zaytoven to Metro Boomin, but the overall mix is considered inferior to genre standards.

'Pimp' and 'Start Dying' as Narrative Pillars

Among the key tracks that structure the album, Pimp, produced by Zaytoven, and Start Dying, also signed by him, stand out as narrative and rhythmic pillars. These songs illustrate 21 Savage's ability to fit into varied trap production despite the technical constraints of the moment. The track Pimp in particular shows how the artist navigates dark foundations while maintaining a distinct vocal presence.

Key!'s Vocal Presence on 'Slaughter Ya Daughter'

The mixtape includes several collaborations that expand the vocal presence of the project. On Slaughter Ya Daughter, artists Key! and iLoveMakonnen add an extra layer to the track, enriching it with their contributions. Similarly, Key! is featured on Out the Bowl collaborating with 21 Savage, adding another dimension to the composition. These features are essential for understanding the collective architecture of the mixtape.

Offset's contribution to the song 'Start Dying'

One of the most notable collaborations is Offset's on Start Dying. His involvement in the track adds an extra layer, strengthening the connection between 21 Savage and his rap scene peers. This collaboration illustrates how the artist integrates his peers to build a cohesive sonic universe. ManMan Savage is also credited on Million Dollar Lick, adding his voice to the song.

This mixtape is often described as representative of the Atlanta trap scene, with production that reflects the genre's codes at the time. Despite some raspy flows on certain tracks and a mixing deemed inferior, the album marks an important step in the artist's trajectory, validating his place in the underground movement.