American Dream, the highly anticipated third studio album by 21 Savage, was officially released on January 12, 2024, through Slaughter Gang Entertainment and Epic Records. This album marks Savage’s return to the spotlight following his critically acclaimed 2018 project, i am > i was. Spanning nearly 50 minutes, American Dream explores the multifaceted world of hip hop and trap, showcasing a variety of influences and collaborations that underscore Savage’s versatility and growth as an artist.
The album’s production is a testament to 21 Savage’s ability to curate a diverse sound, featuring contributions from some of the industry’s most renowned producers. Metro Boomin, London on da Track, and Cardo are among the prominent names behind the beats, alongside other notable producers like Allen Ritter and OG Parker. Their combined efforts ensure a rich auditory experience, blending traditional trap elements with innovative sounds and textures. The album’s production is complemented by a roster of talented guest artists, including Doja Cat, Young Thug, Lil Durk, and Travis Scott, each adding their unique flair to the project.
In the lead-up to the album’s release, Savage embarked on an extensive promotional campaign. This began with a high-profile concert tour alongside Drake, known as the It’s All a Blur Tour. This tour not only showcased Savage’s live performance prowess but also served as a platform to tease his forthcoming album. Following the tour, Savage’s solo headlining tour in November 2023 built anticipation for American Dream, culminating in a high-profile performance at London’s O2 Arena where he hinted at the album’s imminent release. The promotional efforts intensified in December 2023 with billboards and banners appearing in key locations, further amplifying excitement among fans.
A particularly notable aspect of American Dream‘s promotion was the announcement of a biopic film titled American Dream: The 21 Savage Story, which is set to be released on July 4, 2024. This film, starring Savage alongside Donald Glover and Caleb McLaughlin, was revealed through a trailer that featured a preview of music from the album. The film’s announcement was strategically timed to coincide with the album’s release, creating a cohesive promotional strategy that generated significant buzz.
The album’s first singles, “Redrum” and “N.H.I.E.” (featuring Doja Cat), were released on January 17, 2024, followed by “Née-Nah” (featuring Travis Scott and Metro Boomin) on January 23, 2024. These singles set the tone for the album, showcasing its blend of hard-hitting trap beats and melodic hooks. The third single, “Prove It” (featuring Summer Walker), was released on June 4, 2024, continuing the album’s trajectory of successful singles.
Critical reception of American Dream has been generally favorable, with Metacritic giving it a score of 73 out of 100, indicating positive reviews. Critics have praised the album’s production and Savage’s lyrical introspection. Clash highlighted Savage’s ability to balance rap with softer, R&B elements, while HipHopDX commended the album’s deeply personal and reflective nature. However, some reviewers noted that the album occasionally lacked a cohesive thematic through-line, as noted by HotNewHipHop.
Commercially, American Dream debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, making it 21 Savage’s fourth consecutive number-one album in the US. The album also made a significant impact internationally, reaching the top of album charts in several countries and breaking records for first-week streams for a trap album. With 14 tracks debuting on the Billboard Hot 100, including two in the top 10, American Dream solidified 21 Savage’s position as a major force in contemporary hip hop.
Overall, American Dream serves as a powerful statement from 21 Savage, blending his raw, autobiographical lyrics with cutting-edge production and high-profile collaborations. It represents both a personal and professional milestone for the artist, further establishing his legacy in the world of hip hop.
