The Professional
DJ Clue · 1998
74 min · 22 tracks · contemporary R&B · hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop
A vibrant blend of gritty East Coast beats and sharp lyrical storytelling that defines late '90s hip hop.
Why this album works
'The Professional' was influential in cementing DJ Clue's reputation, debuting at number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album features notable remixes and tracks that contributed to the rise of several artists involved, especially within the Ruff Ryders collective.
- Best for
- dynamic peaks and valleys vibrant storytelling with grit late-night drive energy
- Context
- Released in early 1998, 'The Professional' marked DJ Clue's debut studio album after establishing himself as a prominent mixtape DJ. By this time, he had garnered significant attention through collaborations with artists like Nas and Jay-Z, positioning him as a key player in the East Coast hip-hop scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nas· Kool Keith· Kool G Rap
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 1:02
- 2 Ruff Ryders Anthem (remix) Standout 3:52
- 3 It’s On 3:25
- 4 Fantastic 4 5:09
- 5 Queensfinest 3:26
- 6 Exclusive New Shit 3:08
- 7 Gangsta Shit Standout 4:38
- 8 Thugged Out Shit 3:54
- 9 It’s My Thang ’99 3:00
- 10 Mariah Carey (skit) 0:21
- 11 Whatever You Want 4:06
- 12 That’s the Way 4:31
- 13 I Like Control Standout 3:48
- 14 Bitch Be a Ho 3:23
- 15 If They Want It 4:02
- 16 Pain in da Ass (skit) 0:28
- 17 The Professional 3:39
- 18 Brown Paper Bag Thoughts 3:15
- 19 Cops & Robbers 3:26
- 20 Made Men 2:41
- 21 No Love 4:12
- 22 Come On 4:31
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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