It's Goin' Down cover

It's Goin' Down

Mike Shinoda · 2002

11 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A dynamic blend of aggressive beats and sharp lyrical flows that bridges the worlds of hip-hop and rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    It’s Goin’ Down (radio edit) — This track exemplifies the album's energy with its catchy hook and powerful verses, making it a staple in both rock and hip-hop playlists.
  • →
    X‐ecutioner of a Bum Rush (explicit) — Combining intricate scratching with relentless rapping, this track highlights Shinoda’s ability to merge turntablism and lyricism seamlessly.
  • →
    Play That Beat (Lo‐Fidelity All Stars remix) — This remix reinterprets the original with a funky twist, demonstrating the diverse range of sounds Shinoda can navigate within his collaborations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100
Lowland
Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases a solid fusion of hip-hop and rock but lacks depth for repeated listens.

What we noticed

  • The second track shifts to a more experimental sound with heavy turntablism and layered samples.
  • The third track is a remix that introduces a different tempo and arrangement, altering the feel of the original.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This single showcased a fusion of genres, enhancing Shinoda's recognition beyond Linkin Park.
Career context
In 2002, Mike Shinoda was already recognized as a key member of Linkin Park, riding the success of their debut album 'Hybrid Theory'. 'It's Goin' Down' served as a collaborative project with the turntablist group X-Ecutioners, showcasing his versatility in blending genres beyond the nu-metal sound that defined his primary band.
Stylistic neighbors
Linkin Park· Fort Minor· Breaking Benjamin

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • It’s Goin’ Down (radio edit)

    The verses shift from personal reflection to assertive challenges against adversaries, creating a compelling narrative arc.

    This duality in perspective not only showcases Shinoda's lyrical dexterity but also engages listeners by addressing both internal struggles and external confrontations.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 It’s Goin’ Down (radio edit) 3:37
  • 2 X‐ecutioner of a Bum Rush (explicit) 2:59
  • 3 Play That Beat (Lo‐Fidelity All Stars remix) 4:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata