After years of anticipation and several delays, Playboi Carti has finally released his much-anticipated album, I AM MUSIC. The album dropped early on March 14, 2025, hitting streaming services around 4:45 AM PT, much to the excitement of fans around the world.
Spanning over 30 tracks and lasting just over 76 minutes, I AM MUSIC features some of the biggest names in modern hip-hop. Collaborations abound with artists like Future lending his vocals to multiple tracks, including "CHARGE DEM HOES A FEE," "TRIM," and "DIS 1 GOT IT." Meanwhile, Lil Uzi Vert appears on the tracks "JUMPIN" and "TWIN TRIM," and Kendrick Lamar delivers powerful verses on "GOOD CREDIT." The Weeknd, not to be outdone, contributes to "RATHER LIE," and Travis Scott showcases his talents on "CRUSH," "PHILLY," and "WAKE UP F1LTHY," rounding out this star-studded lineup. Skepta also makes his mark on the track "TOXIC," elevying the album's international appeal.
This new release stands as Carti's first full-length project since his sophomore album, Whole Lotta Red, which came out back in December 2020. Given the years of teasers, rumors, and missed deadlines leading up to the release, fans were eager to see whether the album would live up to the hype.
Originally teased under the title Narcissist, Carti has spent significant time developing I AM MUSIC. Known for his experimental approach to music, much of the album was recorded in unique environments, including what has been described as a cave-like studio setting located in Paris. Carti's creative process has been complex, and the album reflects his ability to push artistic boundaries.
From the moment Carti began his promotional push on social media and Spotify with billboards around major cities and cryptic teasers of the album's announcement, anticipation grew. His more chaotic style, previously acknowledged on projects like Whole Lotta Red, was expected to shift slightly on I AM MUSIC. This expectation was largely discussed on social media platforms, where fans speculated about the project and the various singles leading up to its release.
"It's been years since Playboi Carti first started teasing his third studio album, but the wait is finally over," reported Variety, capturing the communal excitement surrounding the album drop, evocative of the spirited fandom surrounding Carti's work, which continues to influence the modern music scene.
Notably, the title of the album created some confusion. While it has been referred to as both I AM MUSIC and simply Music on streaming platforms, the album cover embodies the former title. This mix-up seems fitting, as Carti's unconventional marketing methods and artist ethos often defy mainstream conventions.
The album is also home to extensive content featuring many songs teased over the past several years. Fans may recall tracks like "H00dByAir"—retitled as "HBA," and "Ketamine," now called "K Pop"—putting their hopes on the fan-favorite tracks making it onto the album. Carti took his time to refine the project, making sure it was not just another release but signified something greater.
Aside from the musical content, some discussions surrounding I AM MUSIC have also referenced personal developments in Carti's life. He faced legal troubles earlier, with reports indicating his arrest for alleged domestic violence, marking another significant period of turbulence outside of his music career. Although his legal issues are pending, they contribute to the broader narrative surrounding the artist.
Despite the challenges, I AM MUSIC stands as proof of Carti’s dedication to his craft. Its diverse collection of tracks and collaborations showcases his evolution as both an artist and figure within hip-hop culture. With captivating beats and lyrically rich verses, it's clear this album might dominate playlists, solidifying Carti's influence for years to come.
Stream I AM MUSIC now on your favorite music platforms and find out for yourself how Carti continues to carve out new paths within the hip-hop genre.