Miami cover

Miami

Will Smith · 1998

13 min · 3 tracks · hip-hop

A vibrant blend of hip-hop and Caribbean influences, encapsulating the carefree spirit of summer in Miami.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Miami (radio edit) — The radio edit captures the essence of the track with its infectious beat and memorable chorus, making it a staple on airwaves during the summer of 1998.
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    Miami (Miami mix) — This mix adds a distinct flavor with enhanced rhythmic elements, perfectly aligning with Miami's vibrant nightlife scene and showcasing Smith's versatility as an artist.
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    Miami (Jason Nevins “Live on South Beach” dub) — This dub version captures the live energy of South Beach, offering a unique take that emphasizes rhythmic intricacies while maintaining the song's celebratory vibe.

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 song's vibrant production and catchy hook contribute to its status as a summer anthem.

What we noticed

  • The song features a prominent brass section that drives the upbeat tempo, creating a festive atmosphere.
  • The Miami mix includes additional percussion elements that enhance the Caribbean influence present in the original version.
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 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 — Established Will Smith's music career with mainstream success and recognition.
Themes
South Beach nightlife· Caribbean rhythms· summer celebration
Career context
In 1998, Will Smith was transitioning from a successful television career with 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' to a prominent music and film career. 'Miami' followed his album 'Big Willie Style,' which had solidified his status as a leading hip-hop artist, showcasing his ability to create infectious party anthems.
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Tracklist

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

  • 1 Miami (radio edit) 3:20
  • 2 Miami (Miami mix) 4:41
  • 3 Miami (Jason Nevins “Live on South Beach” dub) 5:11

What to play next

Willennium
Listen next

Willennium

1999

Continues the upbeat vibe with fresh tracks and explores similar themes of celebration.
Big Willie Style
Go back to

Big Willie Style

1997

Introduces the vibrant style and energy that leads into 'Miami'.
Full Will Smith discography Where to start with Will Smith Artists like Will Smith
hip-hop

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Hot Shot

Hot Shot

Shaggy

Merges reggae and hip-hop with catchy hooks, capturing a fun summer vibe.

M.I.A.M.I.

M.I.A.M.I.

Pitbull

Infuses Miami's nightlife and party atmosphere with a blend of hip-hop and Latin beats.

Dutty Rock

Dutty Rock

Sean Paul

Combines dancehall rhythms and hip-hop elements, evoking a lively, carefree summer spirit.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata