What You Gonna Do When the Grid Goes Down? cover

What You Gonna Do When the Grid Goes Down?

Public Enemy · 2020

44 min · 17 tracks · hardcore hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · political hip-hop

A fierce blend of politically charged lyrics and dynamic beats reflecting contemporary societal issues.

Why this album works

The album debuted at number 16 on the Billboard 200, marking a significant return for the group after years of relative quiet. Its bold political messaging garnered attention during a time of social unrest, particularly resonating with movements such as Black Lives Matter, which further solidified Public Enemy’s position as critical voices in hip-hop.
Best for
politically charged lyrical engagement dynamic flow with interludes short bursts of intensity
Context
Released in 2020, this album is Public Enemy's first studio project in over a decade since 'How You Sell Soul to a Soulless People Who Sold Their Soul?' (2007). It captures the group's enduring commitment to social justice and activism amid a tumultuous political landscape, reaffirming their relevance in modern hip-hop.
Stylistic neighbors
Busta Rhymes· Nas· KRS-One

Tracklist

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

  • 1 When the Grid Go Down… 1:31
  • 2 Grid 4:32
  • 3 State of the Union (STFU) Standout 2:54
  • 4 Merica Mirror (interlude) 0:08
  • 5 Public Enemy Number Won Standout 5:25
  • 6 Toxic 3:11
  • 7 Yesterday Man 3:03
  • 8 Crossroads Burning (interlude) 0:12
  • 9 Fight the Power: Remix 2020 Standout 4:57
  • 10 Beat Them All 2:52
  • 11 Smash the Crowd 3:06
  • 12 If You Can’t Join Em Beat Em 0:50
  • 13 Go at It 3:21
  • 14 Don’t Look at the Sky (interlude) 0:09
  • 15 Rest in Beats 3:57
  • 16 R.I.P. Blackat 3:35
  • 17 Closing: I Am Black 0:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata