Royalty cover

Royalty

Donald Glover · 2012

59 min · 18 tracks · contemporary R&B · funk · hip-hop

Eclectic beats merge with introspective lyricism, reflecting the complexities of identity and fame.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic flow with emotional peaks introspective reflections on identity eclectic beats for focused listening
Context
By 2012, Donald Glover was transitioning from his role as a writer on '30 Rock' and star of 'Community' to a serious music artist. 'Royalty' is a significant step in his evolution, coming after his debut EP 'Camp,' which had already begun to establish him in the hip-hop scene. This mixtape showcases his growing confidence and versatility as a musician.
If you like
contemporary R&B, funk, hip-hop

Royalty is an album by Donald Glover, released in 2012. Eclectic beats merge with introspective lyricism, reflecting the complexities of identity and fame. 'Royalty' received critical acclaim upon release, noted for its ambitious blend of genres and personal themes. The project solidified Glover's position within hip-hop, further influencing artists who followed in the alternative rap scene, showcasing a shift towards more varied soundscapes in mainstream hip-hop. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Royalty sound like?

Eclectic beats merge with introspective lyricism, reflecting the complexities of identity and fame. Rooted in contemporary R&B and funk.

What makes Royalty by Donald Glover notable?

'Royalty' received critical acclaim upon release, noted for its ambitious blend of genres and personal themes. The project solidified Glover's position within hip-hop, further influencing artists who followed in the alternative rap scene, showcasing a shift towards more varied soundscapes in mainstream hip-hop. By 2012, Donald Glover was transitioning from his role as a writer on '30 Rock' and star of 'Community' to a serious music artist. 'Royalty' is a significant step in his evolution, coming after his debut EP 'Camp,' which had already begun to establish him in the hip-hop scene. This mixtape showcases his growing confidence and versatility as a musician.

Who is Royalty for?

Royalty works well if you're into dynamic flow with emotional peaks, introspective reflections on identity and eclectic beats for focused listening.

How many songs are on Royalty?

Royalty has 18 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Tracklist

18 tracks·59:27

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

  • 1 R O Y A L T Y 0:09
  • 2 We Ain’t Them 3:13
  • 3 One Up 2:32
  • 4 Black Faces Standout 3:29
  • 5 Unnecessary 3:42
  • 6 Shoulda Known 4:28
  • 7 R.I.P. 3:55
  • 8 American Royalty Standout 3:34
  • 9 It May Be Glamour Life 1:37
  • 10 Toxic Standout 2:48
  • 11 Silk Pillow 4:10
  • 12 They Don’t Like Me 2:15
  • 13 Arrangement 4:35
  • 14 Won’t Stop 3:07
  • 15 Bronchitis 3:02
  • 16 Wonderful 2:35
  • 17 Make It Go Right 4:24
  • 18 Real Estate 5:52

Release Date

July 4, 2012

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

59 min 27 sec