What makes Born Like This by MF DOOM notable?

The album received notable attention for its unique approach to hip-hop, charting at number 12 on the US Billboard Independent Albums chart. Critics praised it for its inventive production and lyrical depth, further solidifying MF DOOM's influence in alternative hip-hop circles. Additionally, tracks like 'Gazzillion Ear' were highlighted for their cultural resonance, contributing to DOOM's enduring legacy. Born Like This was MF DOOM's first album after his collaboration with Danger Mouse on The Mouse and the Mask in 2005. By this point, he had solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in underground hip-hop, following the critically acclaimed album Madvillainy released in 2004. This record showcases an evolution in his style, emphasizing more experimental production choices and complex wordplay.

Who is Born Like This for?

Born Like This works well if you're into wave-like pacing with surprises, intricate lyricism for deep thinkers and short tracks for quick bursts.

How many songs are on Born Like This?

Born Like This has 17 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Born Like This

MF DOOM · 2009

40 min · 17 tracks · alternative hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · underground hip-hop

An intricate tapestry of abstract lyricism and experimental beats that challenges conventional hip-hop norms.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with surprises
intricate lyricism for deep thinkers
short tracks for quick bursts
playful irreverence throughout the album
experimentation that challenges norms

Maybe skip if you want

prefer straightforward song structures
seek long, cohesive narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Born Like This was MF DOOM's first album after his collaboration with Danger Mouse on The Mouse and the Mask in 2005. By this point, he had solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in underground hip-hop, following the critically acclaimed album Madvillainy released in 2004. This record showcases an evolution in his style, emphasizing more experimental production choices and complex wordplay.
Stylistic neighbors: Aesop Rock· Madlib· El-P

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Supervillain (intro) 0:55
2 Gazzillion Ear 4:11
3 Ballskin 1:30
4 Yessir! 2:33
5 Absolutely 2:43
6 Rap Ambush 1:28
7 Lightworks 1:52
8 Batty Boyz 3:16
9 Angelz 3:05
10 Cellz 4:21
11 Still Dope 2:39
12 Microwave Mayo 2:26
13 More Rhymin’ 1:38
14 That’s That 2:15
15 Supervillainz 2:48
16 Bumpy’s Message 1:35
17 Thank Yah 1:14

What to play next

Listen next

Expektoration

2010

Go back to

Unexpected Guests

2009

Full MF DOOM discography Artists like MF DOOM

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop underground hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata