T.I Proves Doubters Wrong Once Again

There is an African proverb that declares "smooth seas do not make skillful sailors." For the self proclaimed "King of the South," that proverb rings true throughout his latest offering, Paper Trail. After suffering through trials and tribulations, being incarcerated and losing friends and a daughter to the darkness of death, it's clear that the seas have been far from smooth for the emcee. But, after surviving the turmoil and making a new album, T.I. [click to read] set out to demand recognition through the release of emotional tension and of course, to continue building upon his collection of rubber bands.

Shedding the "just a trapper" label, T.I. once again proves doubters wrong as he flat out raps to start off the album with the voracious tracks "56 Barz," and "I'm Illy." Adding autobiographical material, Tip rips through a slew of tracks with a fury. Delving into his personal struggles, he explains his arrest ("Ready for Whatever"), discusses his growth ("Live Your Life"), establishes resilience ("No Matter What" and describes the cost of fame ("My Life Your Entertainment"). He goes in even further as he travels down memory lane ("Slide Show"), and goes on to pen a "One Love" type letter to an incarcerated comrade ("You Ain't Missin' Nothin'"). Utilizing a quick flow, he allows pen to hit the paper with true introspection over unblemished percussion on "Dead & Gone," where he effortlessly weaves through stories to unveil a new man and a new mind state.