One of Wun

One of Wun, the fifth studio album by American rapper Gunna, was released on May 10, 2024, under YSL Records and 300 Entertainment. This album is a significant addition to Gunna’s discography, showcasing his ability to evolve while staying true to his unique sound. Featuring guest appearances from Offset, Normani, Leon Bridges, and Roddy Ricch, One of Wun combines a variety of musical influences, delivering a rich auditory experience. The album’s production is handled by a cadre of talented producers, including Turbo, Teddy Walton, and Larrance Dopson, ensuring a polished and cohesive sound throughout its tracks.

The album was highly anticipated following Gunna’s previous project, A Gift & a Curse (2023), and the Bittersweet Tour that supported both albums. One of Wun kicks off with the energetic single “Prada Dem,” featuring Offset, which was released on March 15, 2024, along with a visually captivating music video. This track set the tone for the album, blending Gunna’s smooth flow with Offset’s dynamic verses, creating a perfect introduction to the album’s themes and style. In April 2024, Gunna announced the album’s title, building further anticipation among his fans. The second single, “WhatsApp (Wassam),” dropped on May 3, 2024, accompanied by the announcement of the album’s release date, generating even more excitement.

Critically, One of Wun received mixed reviews. Clash rated the album 7/10, praising its catchy tracks and polished production but noting that it occasionally treads familiar ground. Pitchfork was less favorable, giving it a 5.7/10. Alphonse Pierre of Pitchfork commented that while the tracks are reminiscent of Gunna’s past hits, they lack the fresh spark that previously defined his music. Despite these critiques, the album’s production quality was universally acknowledged as impressive, with Demi Phillips of HotNewHipHop highlighting its cohesiveness and Gunna’s precise flow. Phillips also noted that although the album showcases Gunna’s melodic prowess, it sometimes borders on monotony, especially given its 20-track length.

Commercially, One of Wun debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 on May 25, 2024, with 91,000 album-equivalent units, marking Gunna’s sixth US top-10 album. This success underscores Gunna’s enduring popularity and ability to maintain a strong presence in the competitive music industry. The album’s performance is a testament to his dedicated fan base and the effective promotion leading up to its release.

The collaborative efforts on One of Wun are particularly noteworthy. Normani’s contribution adds a soulful touch, while Leon Bridges brings a smooth, melodic element that contrasts nicely with Gunna’s rap style. Roddy Ricch’s feature provides a fresh dynamic, further enhancing the album’s appeal. The diverse range of guest artists ensures that each track offers something unique, keeping listeners engaged from start to finish.

Gunna’s career trajectory, marked by significant milestones and challenges, is reflected in One of Wun. Since his debut, he has continually evolved, navigating both artistic growth and legal hurdles. His arrest in 2022 and subsequent release, which he addressed in his music, add a layer of depth to his recent works. This personal and professional resilience is evident in One of Wun, where Gunna balances familiar themes with new explorations, showcasing his ongoing development as an artist.

In summary, One of Wun is a compelling addition to Gunna’s body of work. It captures his melodic skill, lyrical themes, and collaborative spirit while pushing the boundaries of his established style. Despite mixed critical reception, the album’s commercial success and polished production highlight Gunna’s significant impact on the rap scene. One of Wun not only solidifies his place in the music industry but also sets the stage for his continued evolution as an artist.