What makes Thinking Out Loud by Young Dolph notable?

The album debuted at number 49 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing Young Dolph's growing popularity within the Southern hip-hop genre. Notable for its raw lyricism and production, it has been recognized for influencing a wave of independent artists who prioritize authenticity and self-reliance. Released on January 1, 2017, 'Thinking Out Loud' followed Young Dolph's successful album 'King of Memphis,' which solidified his position in the Memphis rap scene. At this point in his career, he was gaining recognition as a prominent independent artist, building on his previous successes without major label backing.

Who is Thinking Out Loud for?

Thinking Out Loud works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove, catchy hooks for sing-alongs and streetwise storytelling vibes.

How many songs are on Thinking Out Loud?

Thinking Out Loud has 10 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Thinking Out Loud

Young Dolph · 2017

33 min · 10 tracks · trap music

Young Dolph's blend of hard-hitting beats and charismatic storytelling creates an energizing atmosphere that captures the essence of Southern hip-hop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Thinking Out Loud — The title track encapsulates Dolph's signature style, merging introspective lyrics with a confident delivery that showcases his evolution as an artist.
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Go Get Sum Mo — This track serves as an anthem of ambition and hustle, reflecting Dolph's drive and relentless work ethic while appealing to listeners seeking motivation.
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Pacific Ocean — With its smooth production and laid-back vibe, this song highlights Dolph's versatility and ability to create tracks that resonate beyond traditional street narratives.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic beats with personal storytelling, showcasing Young Dolph's style while maintaining some thematic consistency.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a high energy level with heavy bass and rapid-fire delivery.
Several tracks incorporate melodic hooks that contrast with the aggressive beats, creating dynamic shifts in mood.
The album closes with a more introspective tone, particularly in the final two tracks, which slows down the pace.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove
catchy hooks for sing-alongs
streetwise storytelling vibes
short tracks for quick listens

Maybe skip if you

seeking lengthy immersive journeys
prefer fast-paced excitement

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2017, 'Thinking Out Loud' followed Young Dolph's successful album 'King of Memphis,' which solidified his position in the Memphis rap scene. At this point in his career, he was gaining recognition as a prominent independent artist, building on his previous successes without major label backing.
Stylistic neighbors: Key Glock· Moneybagg Yo· Denzel Curry