What makes Smooth Assassin by Grand Daddy I.U. notable?

The album is significant for its contribution to the early '90s hip-hop landscape and helped solidify Grand Daddy I.U. as a notable figure in the genre. It received positive reviews from hip-hop publications and contributed to the rise of lyrical complexity in rap during a time when party anthems dominated the charts. Released in 1990, Smooth Assassin marked Grand Daddy I.U.'s debut album after making a name for himself in the late '80s through collaborations and features. At this point in his career, he was establishing his solo identity within the burgeoning East Coast hip-hop scene, building on the momentum from his previous appearances on tracks by artists like Roxanne Shante.

How many songs are on Smooth Assassin?

Smooth Assassin has 16 tracks, running approximately 68 minutes.

Smooth Assassin

Grand Daddy I.U. · 1990

68 min · 16 tracks · hip-hop

Smooth verses and infectious grooves intertwine with sharp lyricism, embodying the essence of early '90s East Coast hip-hop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Kick Ass — This track showcases Grand Daddy I.U.'s confident delivery and clever wordplay, setting the tone for his lyrical prowess throughout the album.
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Mass Destruction — Highlighting social issues with sharp commentary, this track stands out for its impactful message wrapped in catchy hooks and rhythms.
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Something New — With its smooth production and romantic themes, this song exemplifies I.U.'s versatility, balancing hard-hitting lyrics with melodic elements.
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Pick Up the Pace — This track is a high-energy anthem that combines an infectious beat with playful lyrics, making it a quintessential party track of its time.

Tracklist

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

1 The U Is Smooth 5:04
2 Pick Up the Pace 4:27
3 Something New 4:52
4 I Kick Ass 5:08
5 Mass Destruction 4:01
6 Gals Dem So Hot 4:43
7 Girl in the Mall 4:50
8 Kay Cee Is Nasty 1:58
9 Nobody Move 4:29
10 Dominos 4:27
11 Behind Bars 4:31
12 Soul Touch 4:18
13 This Is a Recording 5:14
14 Sugar Free 5:05
15 Phuck ’em Up U 2:31
16 Shout Outs 2:40

What to play next

Listen next

Lead Pipe

1994

Full Grand Daddy I.U. discography Artists like Grand Daddy I.U.

hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata