Andre 3000 Pays Tribute To His Mother
It’s been about 15 years since the release of Outkast’s commercial juggernaut, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below. That album solidified the duo as Pop superstars and one of the greatest (THE greatest in my opinion) rap groups of all time. However, that was 15 years ago. Outside of the Idlewild movie soundtrack (released in 1996), the duo hasn’t recorded another album. Andre 3000 has stated in several interviews that he’s done with rap music. Although I hope his mind will change, he just dropped two new songs on Mother’s Day. He kept his promise. One of the songs is a 17 minute roller-coaster symphony. The other finds the rapper exploring his singing side again, but in a less bubbly, melodic way.
This time, Andre 3000’s new music seems to be more of a purge of sorts for him than anyone else. Both songs were released on Soundcloud, which also paired with a new Instagram account for the rapper. If anyone knows Andre 3000, then you know him engaging on social media in any fashion is a big deal. “Me&My (To Bury Your Parents)” is a bare bones track, with heartfelt lyrics. The song has a very vintage and nostalgic feel and his pain is definitely evident here. He talks about the loss of his mother and father, complete with stories of his childhood. This is not Outkast or Andre 3000, but rather an up close and personal look into Andre Benjamin’s mind.
“Look Ma No Hands” is a little harder to stomach. The song clocks in at over 17 minutes and has no words. Ironically, it speaks volumes of regret and sadness with just its instrumentation. Andre 3000 showcases his superb musicianship on both songs, playing the bass clarinet himself. Both songs are an experience that I honestly couldn’t repeat several times. Don’t mistake it. Both songs definitely showcase Andre 3000’s supreme artistry. They just weren’t expected. But isn’t that what makes a great artist after all? Now, I feel selfish for so desperately hoping for an OutKast album every year. Either way, it’s refreshing to have some new music from one half of one of the most creative groups in history.