What makes Born to Be Wild by MC Shan notable?

The album is significant for its impact on the East Coast hip-hop scene and features tracks that helped define MC Shan's style and lyrical prowess. 'Born to Be Wild' also received critical attention for its production quality and has been recognized as an essential work in the evolution of hip-hop during a transformative era. Born to Be Wild is MC Shan's second album, following his debut project, Down By Law, released in 1987. At this point in his career, Shan was solidifying his reputation within the hip-hop scene, particularly as a member of the influential Juice Crew collective. This album marked a continuation of his exploration of themes around freedom and self-empowerment in hip-hop.

How many songs are on Born to Be Wild?

Born to Be Wild has 11 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Born to Be Wild

MC Shan · 1988

49 min · 11 tracks · contemporary R&B

Energetic beats collide with sharp lyricism, encapsulating the essence of late 80s hip-hop culture and its social commentary.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Pioneered This — This track opens the album with a bold declaration of Shan's contributions to hip-hop, setting the tone for self-affirmation and pride throughout the record.
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Born to Be Wild — The title track serves as an anthem celebrating freedom and independence, showcasing Shan's ability to blend catchy hooks with meaningful lyrics.
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Juice Crew Law — Here, Shan reflects on the dynamics within the Juice Crew, offering listeners insight into the competitive yet supportive nature of this influential hip-hop collective.
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Give Me My Freedom — This song stands out for its compelling message advocating personal liberation and empowerment, resonating with broader social themes in hip-hop.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Give Me My Freedom

In this track, a powerful refrain repeatedly emphasizes a demand for liberation, creating a rallying cry for listeners seeking autonomy.

The repetition not only reinforces the urgency of the message but also establishes a communal spirit among listeners who relate to this quest for freedom.

Tracklist

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

1 I Pioneered This 4:50
2 Give Me My Freedom 4:06
3 So Def 3:34
4 Back to the Basics 3:46
5 Go for Yours (’Cause I’m Gonna Get Mine) 3:53
6 Born to Be Wild 4:53
7 She’s Gone 5:20
8 Juice Crew Law 4:30
9 Words of a Freestyle 4:33
10 They Used to Do It Out in the Park 4:43
11 Never Rock a Party 4:59

What to play next

Listen next

Play It Again, Shan

1990

Go back to

Down by Law

1987

Full MC Shan discography Artists like MC Shan

contemporary R&B hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata