Album Review: Dark Sky Paradise by Big Sean

Photo from iTunes

Words by: Nahson Wren

Technical Details
Artist: Big Sean
Album Count: 3
Year: 2015
Tracks: 12
Length: 49 minutes

Big Sean's newest release is very much like his previous releases.  He starts off the album by explaining how his dreams to make it out of inner city of Detroit lead him to his success.  Failing to meet his expectations of his life quickly became a nightmare that kept him motivated to continue to chase his dreams.  He speaks of managing time and the people from his past in a way that will keep him grounded.  He also raps a lot about the relationships in his life and how they've changed so much over the years.  He acknowledges many of the most influential people in his life, like his father and his deceased grandmother throughout the album.  "One Man Can Change The World" is the type of inspirational music that makes the struggles or difficulties that may come along seem worth it.  He's thankful for all that he has, but still hungry to keep the good times rolling.

Overall, Big Sean is adamant about the blessings that have come through the hard work that he has done.  As an inspirational figure, he shows that staying persistent when things matter the most may lead to a great deal of success.  As a fan, his music has the potential to reverse my perspective on a difficult or seemingly impossible situation that I may be looking to find some solace in.  He is constantly driven to make an effort towards passing on his blessings to others as well.  Expect to be ready to turn up the speakers for this one.  I would assume that many of his fans will hear what they've been hoping for.  This album is just another reason why Big Sean is one of my favorites artists.


Favorite Songs (Outside of the popularized radio singles): 

• Dark Sky (Skyscrapers) | This describes Big Sean's attitude towards pursuing his goals.  He takes us back to times when he had to find his way through poverty in many aspects of his life.  His struggles have been the motivation for him to take charge of his life.  His perspective towards keeping his career in order signifies his workaholic attitude and how it is the only way that he becomes content.  Like he says, he is "infatuated with just sitting at the top".  His line about working on himself shows that he knows that he has to be willing to be important to himself, even if he is the only one to think so.  

• Paradise - Extended | Originally, this came out as the first single for the album, but an extra verse was added to explain his “paradise” into further detail.  His attitude toward the work ethic that he needs to have to succeed allows him to find a sense of pride and self-worth.  Since he always dreamed of the life that he is able to live now, he feels the need to fulfill it in every way imaginable.  Although it may seem like the success is all for him, he keeps those close to him in mind.  That is the extra boost that keeps him striving for more.

• I Know [featuring Jhené Aiko] | The dialogue explains how close relationships keep him grounded when life seems to become overwhelming.  The most important people in his life allow him to keep his sanity, despite the stresses that come along with constantly working and being a public figure.  Having someone to feel comfortable with constantly re-energizes him and motivates him in a way that keeps him going.  Jhené Aiko has recently become increasingly more relevant as well, showing up in albums and singles with artists across Hip-Hop.  If this is your introduction to her, I advise you to look into her stuff as well.