Yes, it probably has been a minute since you've heard this guy. Juvenile released a new album, Cocky & Confident, a few weeks ago - a title that definitely represents his attitude but does not make the record soar.
Juvenile signed with Cash Money Records during the late 1990s and released 400 Degreez in 1998. The album contained the smash-hit singles, "Ha," and, "Back That Azz Up." The latter became a middle-school dance anthem and introduced the world to a hot young rapper at the time: Lil' Wayne.
Juvenile and Weezy also were in the Cash Money group called the Hot Boys, which featured rappers B.G. - creator of the term "bling bling" - and Turk.
In 2001, Juvenile left Cash Money Records to start his own record label. Two years later, he returned to Cash Money to release Juve the Great, which contained his No. 1 single, "Slow Motion." He later left Cash Money Records again, citing poor financial management.
For Cocky and Confident, Juvenile decided to work only with young, up-and-coming producers, a move intended to create a fresh sound for the Southern-rap pioneer. Still, it is not exactly original.\nThe album does have some good tracks. "Gotta Get It," which is easily the best song he has released since 2006's "Rodeo" - will get any club bouncing. Another decent track on the album is "Top of the Line," but the rest lacks originality. Juvenile still can rap but he has to have to right beats to back him up
I am not in the music business, nor do I plan to be. I do, however, have two wishes for Juvenile. First, record with producer Mannie Fresh again. The bounce he makes never goes out of style and is perfect for Juvenile's delivery. Second, do another album with the Hot Boys, who reunited last year at a Lil' Wayne concert.
Both B.G. and Wayne have confirmed that there will be some new recordings from the legendary group. Unfortunately, the reality is that the Hot Boys are facing a mountain of legal troubles. Turk is currently serving 12 years for attempting to murder a police officer. B.G. was caught with stolen guns in his car and is locked up in New Orleans for an undetermined period of time. Even worse, Lil' Wayne has been convicted of illegal gun possession and is expected to serve a year in prison later in 2010.
So, as it turns out, Juvenile is the only Hot Boy still standing tall after all of these years. Cocky & Confident is nothing special but it does have a few good tracks with redeeming qualities. Honestly, the only song worth keeping on your iPod is "Gotta Get It." Other than that, just cross your fingers for B.G. and Wayne to get out of jail for a Hot Boys album. That'd be what's up.
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