“A nigga working hard every night and day, grinding every night to get my mother straight.”
— Rob Two
Inspired his pastor father – who started his career as a bass player – Robert Johnson (professionally known as rapper Rob Two) started out in the church as a drummer for the choir. He took a hiatus from music, though, to follow the money and creative freedom that came with videography and photography work. The allure/draw was too great, though, and before long he was back at it, writing and producing music. His career seemed to metaphorically mash the gas pedal with the release of his record “Jugg,” which received a quality visual treatment. Since that point, he’s seen his social numbers jump, and was even blessed to hit the stage during SXSW. It has all led up to this, though. His first [official] project, “Dynasty,” is a cohesive well-produced ode to his journey up to this point, as well as a braggadocios salute to the good life.
With the exception of the money-centric “Fasho,” produced by Young Bugatti, all the records were produced by Rob himself and [or] his in-house producer Supaonthebeatz; the result is a very unified sound and vibe throughout, making the listening experience very consistent. The album has a bassy vibe that sits eye level with the current wave running this game, but what’s refreshing is Rob’s approach. He tends to acknowledge his come up from nothing, but not in an annoying way – songs like “Dreams,” chronicles his path in the life, while “Runnin” outlines his hustle; the latter includes an endearing voice over from his mother commending him for not giving up on his dream. You can hear the pride in her voice. The highlights – for us – was track three, “Everyday,” and the co-produced “Celebration.”
He’s kind of in the vein of Tory Lanez, but with an edge that favors contemporary rap more than singing, though he does have a more sing-songy vibe on records like the lady-focused “4 AM.” He seems to have a solid pen game, a good handle on what seems to work in today’s climate, and – judging on his outro – a humble demeanor that makes him strangely more relatable. I’d love to hear what he would on slightly different vibes. Dynasty is a solid effort worth a spot on your weekend playlist.
