Last year, Logic’s “1-800-273-8255” rocked the world with a message about suicide prevention and reaching out to those with mental health issues. The single hit 5X Platinum and peaked in the top 5 of several of Billboard’s charts. Logic’s newest release, “Young Sinatra IV,” also known as “YSIV” follows this overarching theme of mental health, as well as commenting on popular political topics.
The album was released Friday and is the last of Logic’s “Young Sinatra” series. The first three were mixtapes, all released from 2011-2013.
Much of what makes the album unique and pleasing to listen to are the creative decisions made by Logic. Whether it be the voice recordings of various fans in “Thank You” or short skit in “Sweet Dreams II,” “YSIV” utilizes different musical elements to set itself aside from other current rap albums.
Logic’s message of self love and self care is present in songs such as “One Day” featuring Ryan Tedder, which has repeated verses of affirmation that one day, the singer will be better and where he wants to be in life (“And maybe one day I’ll be wiser/ ‘Cause maybe one day I’ll be further from here/ Put all of my faith in tomorrow, dark days keep me up all night/ Only thing I know, it’s gonna be— alright”). Here, Logic pushes the idea of believing in oneself and getting past the boundaries that hold us back.
Logic is known for writing songs with political commentary, which is seen in songs like “Killing Spree.” “Killing Spree” offers insight about gun violence and the abuse of social media in modern day society. This style is well represented on “YSIV,” with tracks “Wu Tang Forever” and “Last Call” commenting on the situations that push young Americans into gang activity. Also present is an overarching theme of opposition to police brutality, as seen in “Ordinary Day.”
My personal favorite of the album was “Thank You,” an homage by Logic to his fans and those who have helped him rise to such a level of success. Logic also looks back to where he started, commenting on how thankful he is of his success and wealth. This track is my favorite not only because of the audio recordings previously mentioned but because of the connection established with Logic’s fans and audience within the lyrics. The fact that the artist considered those listening when writing this song shows how much he cares and contrasts from other artists whose songs focus only on money and how successful they are.
Logic is currently working on his latest album, “Ultra 85,” which does not have an official release date yet. However, if it is anything like “YSIV,” we can look forward to another album of inspirational messages and political viewpoints.
_Edited by Siena DeBolt | sdebolt@themaneater.com_
