The Ball Street Journal cover

The Ball Street Journal

E-40 · 2008

79 min · 19 tracks · hip-hop · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop

A vibrant blend of hyphy energy and introspective storytelling set against infectious beats.

Why this album works

This album is notable for its impact on the resurgence of hyphy culture during the late 2000s, contributing to E-40's reputation as a pioneer of the genre. It also showcased a diverse range of collaborations, helping E-40 reach broader audiences and solidifying his status within the hip-hop community.
Career context
By the time E-40 released 'The Ball Street Journal' in 2008, he was an established figure in West Coast hip-hop, known for his unique slang and entrepreneurial spirit. This album followed his previous work 'My Ghetto Report Card' (2006), which marked a significant commercial breakthrough. E-40 continued to refine his style while maintaining his distinct sound and connection to the hyphy movement.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Ambassador 3:45
  • 2 I’m on One Standout 4:58
  • 3 Break Ya Ankles Standout 4:00
  • 4 Got Rich Twice 3:43
  • 5 Pain No More 4:25
  • 6 Tell It Like It Is 4:00
  • 7 Give Her the Keys 4:10
  • 8 Hustle 4:17
  • 9 Wake It Up 3:56
  • 10 40 Water 3:39
  • 11 Poor Man’s Hydraulics 4:23
  • 12 The Recipe 4:20
  • 13 Hood Boy 4:09
  • 14 Earl 4:18
  • 15 Sliding Down the Pole 3:24
  • 16 I Can Sell It 5:00
  • 17 Big Time 4:03
  • 18 Alcoholism Standout 3:41
  • 19 Pray for Me 4:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata