What does It's a Beautiful Thing sound like?

A vibrant mix of braggadocio and introspection layered over punchy beats and sharp lyricism. Rooted in hardcore hip-hop and East Coast hip-hop.

What makes It's a Beautiful Thing by Keith Murray notable?

The album features notable collaborations and received attention for its lyrical content and production quality, although it did not achieve the same commercial success as his earlier efforts. It has been praised in various reviews for its clever wordplay and contributions to the hardcore hip-hop genre, reinforcing Murray's status as an influential figure in the late '90s rap landscape. It's a Beautiful Thing is Keith Murray's third studio album, released in 1998 during a period when he was solidifying his place in the East Coast hip-hop scene after breakout success with his previous albums. Following the commercial performance of his sophomore effort, Enigma, this album showcases a more refined lyrical depth while still maintaining the aggressive style that characterized his earlier work.

How many songs are on It's a Beautiful Thing?

It's a Beautiful Thing has 19 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Released 28 years ago this October

It's a Beautiful Thing

Keith Murray · 1998

51 min · 19 tracks · hardcore hip-hop

A vibrant mix of braggadocio and introspection layered over punchy beats and sharp lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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When I Rap — This track opens the album with a confident declaration of Murray's lyrical prowess, establishing the tone and intent of the project. Its infectious hook and dynamic flow exemplify his unique style.
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Incredible — Showcasing his rapid-fire delivery, this track highlights Murray's ability to balance humor with serious themes, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Life on the Street — A reflective narrative that delves into personal experiences and societal observations, demonstrating Murray's capacity for storytelling within his rhymes.
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My Life — This closing track offers an introspective look at Murray's journey through life and music, providing a heartfelt conclusion to the album's themes of struggle and triumph.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Life on the Street

The verse shifts to a more somber tone as it recounts experiences of hardship and resilience against urban challenges.

This tonal shift adds depth to the narrative, contrasting with earlier bravado while grounding the album in reality.

Tracklist

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

1 Intro 0:53
2 When I Rap 3:21
3 Incredible 3:03
4 Some Shit 3:14
5 Bodega Skit 0:40
6 Slap Somebody 3:57
7 Secret Indictment 3:41
8 Radio 3:50
9 Intersection 0:52
10 Shut the F*ck Up 2:15
11 Interlude 0:36
12 Media 3:30
13 Life on the Street 4:04
14 Ride Wit Us 3:51
15 Jungle Boogie 0:56
16 High as Hell 3:22
17 Bad Day 3:55
18 A Message From Keith 2:05
19 My Life 3:45

What to play next

Listen next

The Most Beautifullest Hits

1999

Go back to

Enigma

1996

Full Keith Murray discography Artists like Keith Murray

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata