What makes Special Reserve by Obie Trice notable?

Special Reserve received mixed reviews but was notable for its candid portrayal of struggles faced by those living in urban environments. The album's exploration of themes like homelessness and addiction resonated within the Midwest hip-hop scene and showcased Trice's ability to address serious social issues. It further solidified his reputation as a thoughtful lyricist committed to authenticity, even amidst commercial challenges. Released in 2009, Special Reserve is Obie Trice's third studio album, following his 2006 release, Second Round's on Me. At this point, Trice was navigating a transitional phase in his career, having spent years under the Eminem-led Shady Records label before moving to a more independent approach. This album reflects his desire to regain creative control and establish a distinct voice in the evolving hip-hop landscape.

Who is Special Reserve for?

Special Reserve works well if you're into raw urban storytelling experience, short tracks for quick engagement and gritty realism with sharp insights.

How many songs are on Special Reserve?

Special Reserve has 11 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Special Reserve

Obie Trice · 2009

35 min · 11 tracks · hip-hop

A raw exploration of urban life, blending gritty realism with sharp lyrical introspection and an unmistakable Midwest hip-hop flair.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
You've Been Slain — This track captures Trice's narrative style, addressing themes of loss and betrayal with poignant storytelling that highlights his lyrical prowess.
→
Dope, Jobs, Homeless — As one of the album's most impactful tracks, it confronts the harsh realities of addiction and poverty, showcasing Trice’s commitment to exploring difficult subjects.
→
4 Stories — Here, Trice weaves together multiple narratives that delve into personal experiences and societal issues, demonstrating his skill in crafting vivid imagery through rap.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

raw urban storytelling experience
short tracks for quick engagement
gritty realism with sharp insights
reflective moments amidst energetic flows

Maybe skip if you

prefer polished production styles
seek lengthy, immersive narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2009, Special Reserve is Obie Trice's third studio album, following his 2006 release, Second Round's on Me. At this point, Trice was navigating a transitional phase in his career, having spent years under the Eminem-led Shady Records label before moving to a more independent approach. This album reflects his desire to regain creative control and establish a distinct voice in the evolving hip-hop landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Budden· Royce da 5'9"· Black Milk

Tracklist

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

1 Welcome 1:31
2 Got Hungry 3:47
3 You've Been Slain 2:02
4 On and On 3:32
5 I Am 3:23
6 4 Stories 2:10
7 Roughnecks 4:31
8 Cool Cats 3:27
9 What You Want 3:34
10 Jack My Dick 3:23
11 Dope, Jobs, Homeless 4:17

What to play next

Listen next

Bottoms Up

2012

Go back to

Worldwide Hustler

2008

Full Obie Trice discography Artists like Obie Trice

Midwest hip-hop hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata