Why It Doesn't Matter that Joey Bada$$ is 17.

Every bit of ink spilled about rapper Joey Bada$$ starts with the fact that he is only 17 years old. Though it initially seems noteworthy that Joey is producing quality music at such a young age, last weeks' release of his mix tape, 1999, proves that Joey's age is entirely inconsequential. Rap has a long history of teenage artists emerging and gaining popularity, from The Fresh Prince and Soulja Boy to Bow Wow and Romeo. Most young rappers undergo a rebranding in an attempt to remain relevant. Bow Wow and Romeo proved to be mere youth novelties, after dropping the "Lil" in front of their names, both have been inconsequential as MCs. Soulja Boy transitioned from pop-rap internet superstar to spaced out Lil B associate. After releasing a few acclaimed albums in the late 80's and early 90's, The Fresh Prince became Hollywood superstar Will Smith. Even the Odd Future crew, who rode a wave of success due in equal parts to their youth and shocking lyrical content have already reached a point of diminishing returns. Odd Future leader Tyler the Creator seems very aware of this, and in an interview with Spin Magazine, talks about his music evolving in a completely different direction.


What differentiates Bada$$ (and places him closer to early  Mobb Deep, Busta Rhymes, and NAS) is that his artistic vision on his debut is fully realized. Joey doesn't sound like a teenager. An introduction to his music doesn't need to be qualified by his age. Being known as a teenage rapper immediately conjures the words "potential" and "maturity," words that Bada$$ doesn't need to hide behind to be appreciated. Joey's flow is cool and technically sound, seemingly confident that his husky rhymes can stand toe to toe with the best rappers in the business. He is right at home rapping over chill, jazz-based beats by J Dilla, Doom, and Lord Finesse. Though it isn't to say that Joey Bada$$ doesn't have room to grow as an artist (all musicians do), but his music takes no shortcuts and makes no excuses. 1999 is a great mix tape, and regardless of its creators age, already one of the best of the year.