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Revision as of 00:53, 21 June 2014 editXoloz (talk | contribs)Autopatrolled, Extended confirmed users16,915 editsm Xoloz moved page These Days… to These Days... (Ab-Soul album): per RM discussion on talk page← Previous edit Latest revision as of 23:34, 11 November 2024 edit undo2001:861:4344:8b70:29be:c6aa:294f:3043 (talk) →Track listingTags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit 
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{{Infobox album {{Infobox album
| Name = These Days… | name = These Days...
| Type = studio | type = studio
| Artist = ] | artist = ]
| Cover = Ab-Soul, 'These Days…', front cover art, May 30, 2014.jpg | cover = Ab-Soul, 'These Days…', front cover art, May 30, 2014.jpg
| alt =
| Released = {{start date|2014|06|24}}
| released = {{start date|2014|06|24}}
| Recorded = 2013–14
| recorded = August–October 2013
| Genre = ]
| Length = 1:29:28 | venue =
| studio =
| Label = ]
| Producer = {{flat list| | genre = ]
| length = 89:28
*]
| label = ]
*]
| producer = {{hlist|]|]|]|]|]|]|The Kathy|]|DNYC3|]|]|Blended Babies|]|]|]|]|]|]}}
*]
| prev_title = ]
*]
| prev_year = 2012
*Skhye Hutch
| next_title = ]
*The Kathy
| next_year = 2016
*Tommy Black
| misc = {{Singles
*DNYC3
| name = These Days...
*]
| type = studio
*Kenny Beats
| single1 = Dub Sac
*]
| single1date = October 25, 2013
*]
| single2 = Tree of Life
*]
| single2date = April 18, 2014
*]
| single3 = Stigmata
*]
| single3date = May 22, 2014
*Blended Babies
| single4 = Hunnid Stax
*]
| single4date = June 10, 2014
}}
}}
| Last album = '']''<br/>(2012)
| This album = '''''These Days…'''''<br/>(2014)
| Next album =
| Misc =
}} }}


'''''These Days…''''' is the upcoming third ] by American ] ] ], scheduled to be released on June 24, 2014, via ] (TDE). It serves as the follow-up to 2012's critically acclaimed '']''. '''''These Days...''''' is the third ] by American rapper ]. It was released on June 24, 2014, by ] (TDE). The record serves as the follow-up to his critically acclaimed '']'' (2012). The album features ]s from ] affiliates ], ] and ]; as well as ], ], ] and ] (as Delusional Thomas), whose in-house studio is where Ab-Soul recorded the majority of the record, among others.<ref name=Billboard>{{cite magazine|last1=Ramirez|first1=Erika|title=The Juice Podcast Ab-Soul Talks 'These Days' Delays, Plus Ratking Interview|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6106271/the-juice-podcast-ab-soul-ratking-interviews|magazine=Billboard|accessdate=7 June 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref>


The album's ] was handled by ]' ], ] and ], among others such as ], ], ], Like of ], ], ], Mac Miller as ] and ].
The album features ]s from ] affiliates ], ] and ], as well as ], ], ] and ] (as Delusional Thomas), whose in-house studio is where Ab-Soul recorded the majority of the record, among others.<ref name=Billboard>{{cite web|last1=Ramirez|first1=Erika|title=The Juice Podcast Ab-Soul Talks 'These Days' Delays, Plus Ratking Interview|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6106271/the-juice-podcast-ab-soul-ratking-interviews|website=Billboard.com|publisher=Billboard|accessdate=7 June 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref>

The album's ] was handled by ]' ], ] and ], among others such as ], ], ], Like of ], ], Corin Roddick of ], Mac Miller as ] and ].


==Background== ==Background==
On May 5, 2014, after rumors that his album was called ''Black Lip Pastor'', Ab-Soul revealed the album to be titled ''These Days…''.<ref name="title"/> In a May 2014 interview, with ]'s Life+Times, Ab-Soul spoke on his song "Stigmata", not having a super conceptual title for the album and recording the majority of it at Mac Miller's house among several other things. When asked what should listeners take away from ''These Days…'', Ab-Soul answered: "Balance. Variation. A spice of life. I want to try and touch as many bases as possible. I want something on there for everybody. There will be a lot of references to the vibe of today, the sound of today and the subject matter of today."<ref name="L+T">http://lifeandtimes.com/ab-soul-talks-new-music-t-d-e-and-these-days-album</ref> What has been your favorite part of creating ''These Days…'', he answered: "It would probably be this part – being able to present it and talk about it. This is what I’ve really been waiting on. The recording process was very fun, of course. I recorded the majority of it at Mac Miller‘s house, so you know that was just crazy. It was great recording, but I just couldn't wait for this part."<ref name="L+T"/> When speaking on the album's title with ], Ab-Soul stated: "It’s kind of like self-explanatory. I just wanted it to be a little time capsule of the last couple of years since my absence. The vibe of music and life right now like the last couple of years."<ref name=HHDX1/> On May 5, 2014, after clearing up these rumors that his new album was initially titled ''Black Lip Pastor'', Ab-Soul later revealed that the true title for his new album will be called ''These Days…''.<ref name="title"/> In May 2014, in an interview with ]'s ''Life+Times'', Ab-Soul spoke on several topics. When asked about what should listeners take away from ''These Days…'', Ab-Soul answered: "Balance. Variation. A spice of life. I want to try and touch as many bases as possible. I want something on there for everybody. There will be a lot of references to the vibe of today, the sound of today and the subject matter of today."<ref name="L+T">{{cite web|url=http://lifeandtimes.com/ab-soul-talks-new-music-t-d-e-and-these-days-album|title=Ab-Soul Talks New Music, T.D.E., and "These Days…" Album|work=Life+Times|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
When asked about what had been his favorite part of creating ''These Days…'', Ab-Soul answered: "It would probably be this part – being able to present it and talk about it. This is what I’ve really been waiting on. The recording process was very fun, of course. I recorded the majority of it at Mac Miller's house, so you know that was just crazy. It was great recording, but I just couldn't wait for this part."<ref name="L+T"/>
When speaking on the album's title with '']'', Ab-Soul stated: "It's kind of like self-explanatory. I just wanted it to be a little time capsule of the last couple of years since my absence. The vibe of music and life right now like the last couple of years."<ref name=HHDX1/>


==Recording and production== ==Recording and production==
On June 1, 2014 Ab-Soul described the album would be a "Top Dawg party" and will feature production from ], ], Skyhe Hutch and Tommy Black, among others.<ref name=HHDX1/> He called the recording process for ''These Days…'' "fun" and says he recorded most of the album at fellow American rapper ]’s ] home: "We had a lot of fun in that red room," Ab-Soul says. "Very psychedelic, you could lose track of time. Just open the door and it’s daylight. People like recording there ’cause of the vibe."<ref name=HHDX1/> On June 1, 2014, Ab-Soul described the album would be a "Top Dawg party" and will feature the production from ], ], Skyhe Hutch and Tommy Black, among others.<ref name=HHDX1/> He called the recording process for ''These Days…'' "fun" and says he recorded most of the album at fellow American rapper ]'s ] home: "We had a lot of fun in that red room," Ab-Soul says. "Very psychedelic, you could lose track of time. Just open the door and it's daylight. People like recording there 'cause of the vibe."<ref name=HHDX1/>


==Release and promotion== ==Release and promotion==
On August 6, 2013, Ab-Soul announced he was working on a new project.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Nostro|first1=Lauren|title=Ab-Soul "Christopher DRONEr"|url=http://www.complexmag.ca/music/2013/08/ab-soul-christopher-droner|website=Complexmag.ca|publisher=Complex Media|accessdate=6 Jun 2014|date=6 Aug 2013}}</ref> The following day he would speak to '']'' and confirm that ] and ], will appear on the upcoming project.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Miranda|title=Ab-Soul Speaks On New Single And Upcoming Project With JMSN|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/ab-soul-speaks-on-new-single-and-upcoming-project-with-jmsn/|website=XXLmag.com|publisher=Harris Publications, Inc.|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=8 Aug 2013}}</ref> On October 17, 2013, Ab-Soul stated that he was close to finalizing it.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Miranda|title=Ab-Soul Is Putting The Final Touches On His Next Project|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/ab-soul-putting-final-touches-next-project/|website=XXLmag.ca|publisher=Harris Publications, Inc.|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=17 Oct 2013}}</ref> On October 25, 2013, Ab-Soul released a track titled "Dub Sac".<ref>http://www.stereogum.com/1538671/ab-soul-dub-sac/mp3s/</ref> Then later that week, he confirmed that his new album had been turned in for ] and cleared up rumors that it was titled ''Black Lip Pastor''.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Lilah|first1=Rose|title=Ab-Soul Talks On Upcoming Project & Confusion Surrounding Title, Isaiah Rashad & "Unit 6"|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ab-soul-talks-on-upcoming-project-and-confusion-surrounding-title-isaiah-rashad-and-unit-6-news.7792.html|website=HotNewHipHop.com|publisher=Urbanlinx Media, Inc.|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=22 Oct 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Tardio|first1=Andres|title=Ab-Soul Finalizing New Album, Title Unknown|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.25844/title.ab-soul-finalizing-new-album-title-unknown|website=HipHopDX.com|publisher=Cheri Media Group|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=19 Oct 2013}}</ref> On August 6, 2013, Ab-Soul announced that he was working on a new project.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Nostro|first1=Lauren|title=Ab-Soul "Christopher DRONEr"|url=http://www.complexmag.ca/music/2013/08/ab-soul-christopher-droner|website=Complexmag.ca|accessdate=6 Jun 2014|date=6 Aug 2013}}</ref> The following day he would speak to '']'', to confirm that ] and ] will be appearing on the upcoming project.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Miranda|title=Ab-Soul Speaks On New Single And Upcoming Project With JMSN|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/ab-soul-speaks-on-new-single-and-upcoming-project-with-jmsn/|website=XXLmag.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=8 Aug 2013}}</ref> On October 17, 2013, Ab-Soul stated that he was close to finalizing it.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Miranda|title=Ab-Soul Is Putting The Final Touches On His Next Project|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/ab-soul-putting-final-touches-next-project/|website=XXLmag.ca|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=17 Oct 2013}}</ref> On October 25, Ab-Soul released a track, titled "Dub Sac".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stereogum.com/1538671/ab-soul-dub-sac/mp3s/|title=Ab-Soul – "Dub Sac" - Stereogum|work=Stereogum|date=25 October 2013 |accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref> Later that week, he confirmed that his new album has been turned in for ] and cleared up these rumors that it was initially titled ''Black Lip Pastor''.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Lilah|first1=Rose|title=Ab-Soul Talks On Upcoming Project & Confusion Surrounding Title, Isaiah Rashad & "Unit 6"|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ab-soul-talks-on-upcoming-project-and-confusion-surrounding-title-isaiah-rashad-and-unit-6-news.7792.html|website=HotNewHipHop.com|publisher=Urbanlinx Media, Inc.|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=22 Oct 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Tardio|first1=Andres|title=Ab-Soul Finalizing New Album, Title Unknown|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.25844/title.ab-soul-finalizing-new-album-title-unknown|website=HipHopDX.com|publisher=Cheri Media Group|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=19 Oct 2013}}</ref>


On January 6, 2014, in an interview with Bootleg Kev, when speaking on the album, Ab-Soul stated: "Ali is mixing it right now," and that they were waiting on the perfect way to present the project, as a result of creative releases such as ]'s '']''.<ref name=BootlegKev>{{cite web|title=Ab-Soul Interview w/ Bootleg Kev (Exclusive)|url=http://bootlegkev.com/v2/2014/01/ab-soul-interview-w-bootleg-kev-exclusive/|website=BootlegKev.com|publisher=BSC MultiMedia LLC|accessdate=7 June 2014|date=6 January 2014}}</ref> He also revealed that the album is about progression and confirmed there would be appearances from his TDE label-mates, as well as the production from a ] producer ].<ref name=BootlegKev/> On April 18, 2014, Ab-Soul premiered a song, titled "Tree of Life", to promote the album.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/04/ab-soul-tree-of-life|title=Listen to Ab-Soul's New Song "Tree Of Life"|date=18 April 2014|work=Complex|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref> On May 5, 2014, Ab-Soul took to ], announcing that his third solo effort would be titled ''These Days…''.<ref name="title">{{cite web|last1=Walsh|first1=Peter|title=Ab-Soul's Album Title Is 'These days…'|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/05/ab-soul-reveal-album-title-via-twitter/|website=XXLmag.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=6 May 2014}}</ref> On May 22, Ab-Soul released a song, titled "Stigmata", via TDE's ] page. The song was produced by Rahki. The song was inspired by ]' "The Cross", and features guest verses from ] and Philadelphia-based rapper Asaad.<ref name=Pitch1>{{cite web|last1=Gordon|first1=Jeremy|title=Ab-Soul Teams With Action Bronson on Nas-Inspired "Stigmata"|url=http://pitchfork.com/news/55304-ab-soul-shares-nas-inspired-stigmata-featuring-action-bronson/|website=Pitchfork Media|accessdate=11 Jun 2014|date=23 May 2014}}</ref> On May 30, its ], which was directed by Dave Free and APLUSFILMZ, was released.<ref name="thefourohfive1">{{cite web|author=<!--Not stated-->|title=Ab-Soul details new album, unveils video for 'Stigmata'|url=http://www.thefourohfive.com/news/article/ab-soul-details-new-album-unveils-video-for-stigmata-140|website=The 405|access-date=7 November 2024|date=31 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602120635/http://www.thefourohfive.com/news/article/ab-soul-details-new-album-unveils-video-for-stigmata-140 |archive-date=June 2, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The video clocks in a minute and a half, because of the removal of the two guest rappers' verses, finds a blood-soaked Ab-Soul, re-imagined as Jesus Christ, trekking alone through a desert environment with a wooden cross on his back and a crown of thorns on his head. The clip ends with the album's cover art and release date.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Lyons|first1=Patrick|title=Ab-Soul "Stigmata" Video|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ab-soul-stigmata-video-new-video.28746.html|website=HotNewHipHop.com|accessdate=12 Jun 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Ab-Soul Reveals Video for "Stigmata" & Album Release Date|url=http://www.stereogum.com/1684067/ab-soul-stigmata-video/video/|website=Hypetrack.com|accessdate=12 Jun 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref> Top Dawg management took it to Twitter to confirm that ''These Days…'' is scheduled for a June 24, release date.<ref name="thefourohfive1"/><ref>{{cite web|last1=Benton-Martin|first1=Erika|title=Ab-Soul Releases 'These Days…' Album Art, Release Date And 'Stigmata' Teaser Video|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/6480/20140531/ab-soul-releases-these-days%E2%80%A6-album-art-release-date-and-stigmata-teaser-video.htm|website=MusicTimes.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=31 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Frydenlund|first1=Zach|title=Watch Ab-Soul's Video for "Stigmata"|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/05/watch-ab-souls-video-for-stigmata|website=Complexmag.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref> On June 1, 2014, Ab-Soul appeared on ]'s ''Real Late with Rosenberg'', to discuss and promote the album.<ref name=HHDX1>{{cite web|last1=Harling|first1=Danielle|title=Ab-Soul Says "These Days…" Will Be A "Top Dawg Party"|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.29098/ab-soul-says-these-days-will-be-a-top-dawg-party-/|website=HipHopDX.com|accessdate=7 June 2014|date=4 June 2014}}</ref> On June 10, he premiered the audio for a song off the album, titled "Hunnid Stax", featuring his ] cohort ].<ref name=Okay1>{{cite web|author1=Karaslamb|title=Ab-Soul x Schoolboy Q – "Hunnid Stax"|url=http://www.okayplayer.com/news/ab-soul-schoolboy-q-hunnid-stax-single-mp3.html|website=Okayplayer.com|accessdate=12 Jun 2014|date=10 Jun 2014}}</ref> Ab-Soul performed "Stigmata" sans Action Bronson and Asaad on ] on June 19.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Goddard|first1=Kevin|title=Ab-Soul Performs 'Stigmata' On Revolt TV |url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ab-soul-performs-stigmata-on-revolt-tv-new-video.29224.html|website=HotNewHipHop.com|accessdate=21 Jun 2014|date=19 Jun 2014}}</ref> On June 20, TDE released a music video for a song from the album, titled "Closure".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/06/21/video-ab-soul-closure/|title=Rap-Up.com -- Video: Ab-Soul – 'Closure'|work=Rap-Up.com|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/videos/id.16759/title.ab-soul-closure-/ |title=Ab-Soul - "Closure" |publisher=HipHopDX |date=2014-06-20 |accessdate=2015-08-18}}</ref> On July 15, 2014, Top Dawg Ent. released the music video for "Hunnid Stax".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pitchfork.com/news/55888-ab-soul-schoolboy-q-mac-miller-share-hunnid-stax-video/|title=Ab-Soul, Schoolboy Q, Mac Miller Share "Hunnid Stax" Video|work=Pitchfork|date=14 July 2014 |accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/07/watch-ab-souls-hunnid-stax-video-f-schoolboy-q|title=Watch Ab-Soul's "Hunnid Stax" Video f/ ScHoolBoy Q|date=14 July 2014|work=Complex|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
On January 6, 2014, in an interview with Bootleg Kev, when speaking on the album Ab-Soul stated: "Ali is mixing it right now," and that they were waiting on the perfect way to present the project, as a result of creative releases such as ]'s '']''.<ref name=BootlegKev>{{cite web|title=Ab-Soul Interview w/ Bootleg Kev (Exclusive)|url=http://bootlegkev.com/v2/2014/01/ab-soul-interview-w-bootleg-kev-exclusive/|website=BootlegKev.com|publisher=BSC MultiMedia LLC|accessdate=7 Jun 204|date=6 Jan 2014}}</ref> He also revealed the album is about progression and confirmed there would be appearances from his TDE label-mates, as well as production from hip hop producer ].<ref name=BootlegKev/> On April 18, 2014, Ab-Soul premiered a song titled "Tree of Life", in promotion for the album.<ref>http://www.complex.com/music/2014/04/ab-soul-tree-of-life</ref>


==Critical reception==
On May 5, 2014, Ab-Soul took to ] to announce his third solo effort would be titled ''These Days…''.<ref name="title">{{cite web|last1=Walsh|first1=Peter|title=Ab-Soul's Album Title Is 'These days…'|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/05/ab-soul-reveal-album-title-via-twitter/|website=XXLmag.com|publisher=Harris Publications, Inc.|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=6 May 2014}}</ref> On May 22, 2014, Ab-Soul released a song titled "Stigmata", via TDE's ] page. Produced by Rahki, the song was inspired by ]' "The Cross" and features ] and Philadelphia-based rapper Asaad.<ref name=Pitch1>{{cite web|last1=Gordon|first1=Jeremy|title=Ab-Soul Teams With Action Bronson on Nas-Inspired "Stigmata"|url=http://pitchfork.com/news/55304-ab-soul-shares-nas-inspired-stigmata-featuring-action-bronson/|website=Pitchfork.com|publisher=Pitchfork Media Inc.|accessdate=11 Jun 2014|date=23 May 2014}}</ref> On May 30, 2014, its music video, directed by Dave Free and APLUSFILMZ, was released.<ref>{{cite web|author1=The 405|title=Ab-Soul details new album, unveils video for 'Stigmata'|url=http://www.thefourohfive.com/news/article/ab-soul-details-new-album-unveils-video-for-stigmata-140|website=TheFourOhFive.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=31 May 2014}}</ref> The video, which clocks in a minute and a half because of the removal of the two guest rappers' verses, finds a blood-soaked Ab-Soul, re-imagined as Jesus Christ, trekking alone through a desert environment with a wooden cross on his back and a crown of thorns on his head. The clip ends with the album's cover art and release date.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Lyons|first1=Patrick|title=Ab-Soul "Stigmata" Video|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ab-soul-stigmata-video-new-video.28746.html|website=HotNewHipHop.com|publisher=Urbanlinx Media, Inc.|accessdate=12 Jun 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Ab-Soul Reveals Video for "Stigmata" & Album Release Date|url=http://www.stereogum.com/1684067/ab-soul-stigmata-video/video/|website=Hypetrack.com|accessdate=12 Jun 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref>
{{Album ratings
<!-- Aggregate scores -->
| MC = 70/100<ref name="metacritic1">{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/music/-these-days/ab-soul|title=Reviews for These Days... by Ab-Soul|work= Metacritic|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
<!-- Review scores -->
|rev1 = ]
|rev1Score = {{rating|4|5}}<ref name="allmusic1">{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/-these-days-mw0002698290|title=These Days... - Ab-Soul - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|work=AllMusic|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
|rev2 = '']''
|rev2Score = B−<ref name="avclub1">{{cite web|url=http://www.avclub.com/review/ab-soul-loses-control-these-days-206032|title=Review: Ab-Soul loses control on These Days… · Music Review|work=The A.V. Club|date=24 June 2014 |accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
|rev3 = ]
|rev3Score = 7.5/10<ref>{{cite web|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/06/24/ab-soul-these-days-album-review/ |title=Ab-Soul: 'These Days' Album Review |publisher=AllHipHop |date=2014-06-24 |accessdate=2015-08-18}}</ref>
|rev4 = '']''
|rev4score = 7/10<ref>{{cite web|last=Weekes |first=Jabbari |url=http://exclaim.ca/Reviews/HipHop/ab-soul-these_days |title=Ab-Soul These Days |publisher=Exclaim.ca |date=2014-06-23 |accessdate=2015-08-18}}</ref>
|rev5 = ]
|rev5Score = {{rating|4|5}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Balfour |first=Jay |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/album-reviews/id.2302/title.ab-soul-these-days |title=Ab-Soul - These Days |publisher=HipHopDX |date=2014-06-28 |accessdate=2015-08-18}}</ref>
|rev6 = '']''
|rev6score = 7.7/10<ref name="pastemagazine1">{{cite web|url=http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2014/06/ab-soul-these-days-review.html|title=Ab-Soul: These Days... Review|work=pastemagazine.com|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
|rev7 = ]
|rev7Score = 7.7/10<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/19481-ab-soul-these-days/ |title=Ab-Soul: These Days... |publisher=Pitchfork |date=2014-06-26 |accessdate=2015-08-18}}</ref>
|rev8 = '']''
|rev8Score = 5/10<ref name="popmatters1">{{cite web|url=http://www.popmatters.com/review/183526-ab-soul-these-days/|title=Ab-Soul|work=PopMatters|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
|rev9 = '']''
|rev9Score = {{Rating|3|5}}<ref name="rollingstone1">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/albumreviews/these-days-20140725|title=Ab-Soul These Days... Album Review|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=25 July 2014 |accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref>
|rev10 = '']''
|rev10Score = 4/5<ref name="xxlmag1">{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/rap-music/reviews/2014/06/ab-soul-these-days-album-review/ |title=Ab-Soul Crafts A Lyrical Masterpiece On 'These Days...' - XXL |publisher=Xxlmag.com |date=2014-06-24 |accessdate=2015-08-18}}</ref>
}}
''These Days...'' received generally positive reviews from music critics. At ], which assigns a ] rating out of 100 to reviews from mainstream critics, the album received an ] score of 70 based on 17 reviews, which indicates "generally favorable reviews".<ref name="metacritic1"/> Jabbari Weaks of '']'' wrote "the self-proclaimed 'Genius, idiot' succeeds for the most part in moving out of his sonic comfort zone while toeing the lyrical line between enlightenment and ignorance."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://exclaim.ca/Reviews/HipHop/ab-soul-these_days|title=Ab-Soul|publisher=|accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref> G. Avant of ] wrote "''These Days'' was just one step further in solidifying the position of Ab-Soul and TDE as a collective for long term success."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/06/24/ab-soul-these-days-album-review/|title=AllHipHop » Ab-Soul: 'These Days' Album Review|work=AllHipHop|date=24 June 2014 |accessdate=6 October 2014}}</ref> Eric Thurm of '']'' noted "for someone so comfortable wearing his poetic heart on his sleeve, the black-lipped pastor has made an oddly distant album."<ref name="avclub1"/> Kellan Miller of '']'' wrote "if he continues to release profound, well-rounded material, his name will no doubt be included in Top Five Lists across the board."<ref name="xxlmag1"/> Philip Cosores of '']'' wrote "These days, there is almost always as much reason to be thinking deeply as there is to escape. That Ab-Soul tries to do both makes for a pretty entertaining ride, even when he technically falters."<ref name="pastemagazine1"/> In a positive review, ]'s David Jeffries wrote "his third album is a bit scattered and a tad overwhelming, but those who like their hip-hop to be a mix of machismo and maverick can easily ignore these small bumps in the road, because These Days... offers a whirlwind of excellent hooks and exciting ideas."<ref name="allmusic1"/> In a more critical review, Marshall Gu of '']'' wrote that the album is "too long" and that it felt like Ab-Soul was "just trying to throw everything at the wall in the hopes that something will stick so that Interscope will take notice and finally sign him."<ref name="popmatters1"/> Jon Dolan of '']'' wrote "He rarely strives for the depth of Lamar or the intensity of Q; there's plenty of clever imagery on These Days . . ., but a fully realized dude never quite comes into focus."<ref name="rollingstone1"/>


==Commercial performance==
Also on May 30, 2014, Top Dawg management took to Twitter to confim that ''These Days…'' is scheduled for a June 24, release date.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Benton-Martin|first1=Erika|title=Ab-Soul Releases 'These Days…' Album Art, Release Date And 'Stigmata' Teaser Video|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/6480/20140531/ab-soul-releases-these-days%E2%80%A6-album-art-release-date-and-stigmata-teaser-video.htm|website=MusicTimes.com|publisher=MusicTimes.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=31 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Frydenlund|first1=Zach|title=Watch Ab-Soul's Video for "Stigmata"|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/05/watch-ab-souls-video-for-stigmata|website=Complexmag.com|publisher=Complex Media|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=30 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author1=The 405|title=Ab-Soul details new album, unveils video for 'Stigmata'|url=http://www.thefourohfive.com/news/article/ab-soul-details-new-album-unveils-video-for-stigmata-140|website=TheFourOhFive.com|accessdate=7 Jun 2014|date=31 May 2014}}</ref> On June 1, 2014, Ab-Soul appeared on ]'s ''Real Late with Rosenberg'', to discuss and promote the album.<ref name=HHDX1>{{cite web|last1=Harling|first1=Danielle|title=Ab-Soul Says "These Days…" Will Be A "Top Dawg Party"|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.29098/ab-soul-says-these-days-will-be-a-top-dawg-party-/|website=HipHopDX.com|publisher=Cheri Media Group|accessdate=7 June 2014|date=4 June 2014}}</ref> On June 10, 2014, he premiered the audio for a song off the album titled "Hunnid Stax", featuring his ] cohort ].<ref name=Okay1>{{cite web|author1=Karaslamb|title=Ab-Soul x Schoolboy Q – "Hunnid Stax"|url=http://www.okayplayer.com/news/ab-soul-schoolboy-q-hunnid-stax-single-mp3.html|website=Okayplayer.com|publisher=okayplayer.com|accessdate=12 Jun 2014|date=10 Jun 2014}}</ref>
The album debuted at number 11 on the ], with first-week sales of 21,812 copies in the United States.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio |first=Andres |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.29560/title.hip-hop-album-sales-week-ending-06-29-2014 |title=Hip Hop Album Sales: Week Ending 06/29/2014 |work=HipHop DX |date=2014-07-02 |accessdate=2014-07-02}}</ref>


== Track listing == ==Track listing==
{{Track listing {{Track listing
| extra_column = Producer(s) | extra_column = Producer(s)
| total_length = 89:28
| writing_credits = yes
| total_length =


| title1 = God's Reign (These Days) | title1 = God's Reign
| note1 = featuring ] | note1 = featuring ]
| writer1 = ], Solana Rowe, Corin Roddick | writer1 = {{hlist|]|]|]}}
| extra1 = ] | extra1 = ]
| length1 = 4:18 | length1 = 4:18


| title2 = Tree of Life | title2 = Tree of Life
| writer2 = Stevens, Dwan Howard, Dacoury Natche | writer2 = {{hlist|Stevens|]|]}}
| extra2 = ] & ] | extra2 = {{hlist|]|]}}
| length2 = 5:37 | length2 = 5:37


| title3 = Hunnid Stax | title3 = Hunnid Stax
| note3 = featuring ] | note3 = featuring ]
| writer3 = Stevens, Quincey Hanley | writer3 = {{hlist|Stevens|]|]}}
| extra3 = Kenny Beats | extra3 = ]
| length3 = 3:23 | length3 = 3:23


| title4 = Dub Sac | title4 = Dub Sac
| writer4 = Stevens, David Friley | writer4 = {{hlist|Stevens|]|]}}
| extra4 = ] & Tommy Black | extra4 = {{hlist|]|]}}
| length4 = 5:50 | length4 = 5:50


| title5 = World Runners | title5 = World Runners
| note5 = featuring ] & ] | note5 = featuring ] and ]
| writer5 = Stevens, Wasalu Jaco, Nikki Jean, Donte Perkins | writer5 = {{hlist|Stevens|]|]|]}}
| extra5 = ] | extra5 = ]
| length5 = 5:02 | length5 = 5:02


| title6 = Nevermind That | title6 = Nevermind That
| note6 = featuring ] | note6 = featuring ]
| writer6 = Stevens, William Roberts | writer6 = {{hlist|Stevens|]}}
| extra6 = The Kathy | extra6 = The Kathy
| length6 = 4:39 | length6 = 4:39


| title7 = Twact | title7 = Twact
| note7 = featuring Jinx & Short Dawg | note7 = featuring Yung Jinx and Short Dawg
| writer7 = Stevens, Supreme Williams, Donte Blacksher | writer7 = {{hlist|Stevens|Supreme Williams|Theron Morgan|Donte Blacksher}}
| extra7 = DNYC3 | extra7 = DNYC3
| length7 = 3:48 | length7 = 3:48


| title8 = Just Have Fun | title8 = Just Have Fun
| writer8 = {{hlist|Stevens|Gabriel Stevenson|Richard Perry|Jonathan Keller|]|Anthony Palman|]|]|]}}
| writer8 = Stevens, Gabriel Stevenson
| extra8 = ] & Blended Babies | extra8 = {{hlist|]|Blended Babies}}
| length8 = 5:30 | length8 = 5:30


| title9 = Kendrick Lamar's Interlude

| title9 = Kendrick Lamar's Interlude | note9 = performed by ]
| note9 = featuring ] | writer9 = {{hlist|]|]}}
| writer9 = Stevens, Kendrick Duckworth, Terrace Martin | extra9 = ]
| extra9 = ]
| length9 = 4:59 | length9 = 4:59


| title10 = Closure | title10 = Closure
| writer10= {{hlist|Stevens|]}}
| note10 = featuring ]
| writer10 = Stevens, Mark Spears
| extra10 = ] | extra10 = ]
| length10 = 3:28 | length10= 3:28


| title11 = Sapiosexual | title11 = Sapiosexual
| writer11 = Stevens, Jermaine Cole | writer11= {{hlist|Stevens|]}}
| extra11 = ] | extra11 = ]
| length11 = 3:36 | length11= 3:36


| title12 = Stigmata | title12 = Stigmata
| note12 = featuring ] & Asaad | note12 = featuring ] and Asaad
| writer12 = Stevens, Saayid Asaad, Arian Asllani, Columbus Smith | writer12= {{hlist|Stevens|]|Saayid Asaad|]}}
| extra12 = ] | extra12 = ]
| length12 = 3:48 | length12= 3:48


| title13 = Feelin' Us | title13 = Feelin' Us
| note13 = featuring ] & ] | note13 = featuring ] and ]
| writer13= {{hlist|Stevens|]|]|]|]|]}}
| writer13 = Stevens, RaVaughn Brown, Johnny McKinzie
| extra13 = Skhye Hutch | extra13 = ]
| length13 = 5:09 | length13= 5:09


| title14 = Ride Slow | title14 = Ride Slow
| note14 = featuring ] & ] | note14 = featuring ] and ]
| writer14 = Stevens, Daniel Sewell, Malcolm McCormick | writer14= {{hlist|Stevens|]|]|]}}
| extra14 = ] | extra14 = ]
| length14 = 7:21 | length14= 7:21


| title15 = W.R.O.H | title15 = W.R.O.H
| note15 = featuring ] | note15 = featuring ]
| writer15 = Stevens, Christian Berishaj, Donte Perkins | writer15= {{hlist|Stevens|]|Perkins|Davone Campbell}}
| extra15 = ] | extra15 = TaeBeast
| length15 = 23:00 | length15= 23:00

| total_length = 1:29:28
}} }}


;Notes<ref>{{cite web|author1=Pizzo|title=Ab-Soul – "These Days" (feat. The O'My's) + Album Tracklist|url=http://www.hiphopsite.com/2014/06/13/ab-soul-these-days-feat-the-omys-album-tracklist/|website=HipHopSite.com|accessdate=14 Jun 2014|date=12 Jun 2014}}</ref> '''Notes'''<ref>{{cite web|author1=Pizzo|title=Ab-Soul – "These Days" (feat. The O'My's) + Album Tracklist|url=http://www.hiphopsite.com/2014/06/13/ab-soul-these-days-feat-the-omys-album-tracklist/|website=HipHopSite.com|accessdate=14 Jun 2014|date=12 Jun 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140617151504/http://www.hiphopsite.com/2014/06/13/ab-soul-these-days-feat-the-omys-album-tracklist/|archive-date=17 June 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*"God's Reign (These Days)" features additional vocals from ]. * "God's Reign" features additional vocals by ].
*"Tree of Life" features additional vocals from ] and ]. * "Tree of Life" features additional vocals by ] and ].
*"Hunnid Stax" features additional vocals from ] and ]. * "Hunnid Stax" features additional vocals by ] and ].
*"Dub Sac" features additional vocals from A-Mack and Punch. * "Dub Sac" features additional vocals by A-Mack and ].
*"World Runners" features additional vocals from Jade Honesty. * "World Runners" features additional vocals by Jade Honesty.
*"Nevermind That" features additional vocals from ]. * "Nevermind That" features additional vocals by ].
*"Twact" features additional vocals from DoeBurger. * "Twact" features additional vocals by DoeBurger.
*"Just Have Fun" features additional vocals from ], RetcH and The O'My's. * "Just Have Fun" features additional vocals by ], Mac Miller and F.O.A.R.
* "Just Have Fun" contains the hidden track "These Days..." featuring The O'My's.
*"Kendrick Lamar's Interlude" features additional vocals from JaVonté.
*"Sapiosexual" features additional vocals from ], Jae Crizz, ] and Isaiah Rashad. * "Kendrick Lamar's Interlude" features additional vocals by JaVonté.
*"Ride Slow" features additional vocals from ] and DoeBurger. * "Closure" features additional vocals by ].
* "Sapiosexual" features additional vocals by Bilal Chaudhry (B-Diddy), Jae Crizz, ] and Isaiah Rashad.
* "Ride Slow" features additional vocals by ] and DoeBurger.
* "W.R.O.H" features additional vocals by ].

'''Sample credits'''
* "Hunnid Stax" contains a ] of "]" performed by ].
* "Just Have Fun" contains an ] of "]", written by ], Anthony Palman, ], ] and ].
* "Closure" contains a sample of "Get Out", composed by ].
* "Feelin' Us" contains an interpolation of "]", written by ] and ].
* "W.R.O.H" contains a sample of "Air for Life", composed by ] and ].

==Charts==
{{col-start}}
{{col-2}}

===Weekly charts===
{|class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"
|-
!Chart (2014)
!Peak<br/>position
|-
{{album chart|UK|96|artist=Ab-Soul|accessdate=July 24, 2014}}
|-
{{album chart|UKR&B|7|artist=Ab-Soul|accessdate=July 5, 2014}}
|-
{{Album chart|Billboard200|11|artist=Ab-Soul|accessdate=July 3, 2014}}
|-
{{album chart|BillboardRandBHipHop|2|artist=Ab-Soul|accessdate=July 3, 2014}}
|-
{{album chart|BillboardRap|2|artist=Ab-Soul|accessdate=July 3, 2014}}
|-
{{album chart|BillboardIndependent|3|artist=Ab-Soul|accessdate=July 3, 2014}}
|}
{{col-2}}

===Year-end charts===
{|class="wikitable plainrowheaders"
|-
!Chart (2014)
!Position
|-
|US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2014/top-r-and-b-hip-hop-albums|title=Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums – Year-End 2014|magazine=Billboard|accessdate=July 10, 2020}}</ref>
|style="text-align:center"|92
|}
{{col-end}}


==References== ==References==
{{reflist|2}} {{reflist|30em}}

{{Ab-Soul}}


{{Black Hippy}} {{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:These Days...}} {{DEFAULTSORT:These Days...}}
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Latest revision as of 23:34, 11 November 2024

2014 studio album by Ab-Soul
These Days...
Studio album by Ab-Soul
ReleasedJune 24, 2014 (2014-06-24)
RecordedAugust–October 2013
GenreHip hop
Length89:28
LabelTDE
Producer
Ab-Soul chronology
Control System
(2012) 		These Days...
(2014) 		Do What Thou Wilt.
(2016)
Singles from These Days...
  1. "Dub Sac"
    Released: October 25, 2013
  2. "Tree of Life"
    Released: April 18, 2014
  3. "Stigmata"
    Released: May 22, 2014
  4. "Hunnid Stax"
    Released: June 10, 2014

These Days... is the third studio album by American rapper Ab-Soul. It was released on June 24, 2014, by Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). The record serves as the follow-up to his critically acclaimed Control System (2012). The album features guest appearances from Black Hippy affiliates Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q and Jay Rock; as well as Rick Ross, Lupe Fiasco, Action Bronson and Mac Miller (as Delusional Thomas), whose in-house studio is where Ab-Soul recorded the majority of the record, among others.

The album's production was handled by Digi+Phonics' Dave Free, Sounwave and Tae Beast, among others such as Rahki, Curtiss King, DJ Dahi, Like of Pac Div, Terrace Martin, Corin Roddick, Mac Miller as Larry Fisherman and J. Cole.

Background

On May 5, 2014, after clearing up these rumors that his new album was initially titled Black Lip Pastor, Ab-Soul later revealed that the true title for his new album will be called These Days…. In May 2014, in an interview with Jay Z's Life+Times, Ab-Soul spoke on several topics. When asked about what should listeners take away from These Days…, Ab-Soul answered: "Balance. Variation. A spice of life. I want to try and touch as many bases as possible. I want something on there for everybody. There will be a lot of references to the vibe of today, the sound of today and the subject matter of today."

When asked about what had been his favorite part of creating These Days…, Ab-Soul answered: "It would probably be this part – being able to present it and talk about it. This is what I’ve really been waiting on. The recording process was very fun, of course. I recorded the majority of it at Mac Miller's house, so you know that was just crazy. It was great recording, but I just couldn't wait for this part."

When speaking on the album's title with HipHopDX, Ab-Soul stated: "It's kind of like self-explanatory. I just wanted it to be a little time capsule of the last couple of years since my absence. The vibe of music and life right now like the last couple of years."

Recording and production

On June 1, 2014, Ab-Soul described the album would be a "Top Dawg party" and will feature the production from Sounwave, Tae Beast, Skyhe Hutch and Tommy Black, among others. He called the recording process for These Days… "fun" and says he recorded most of the album at fellow American rapper Mac Miller's Los Angeles home: "We had a lot of fun in that red room," Ab-Soul says. "Very psychedelic, you could lose track of time. Just open the door and it's daylight. People like recording there 'cause of the vibe."

Release and promotion

On August 6, 2013, Ab-Soul announced that he was working on a new project. The following day he would speak to XXL, to confirm that JMSN and Jhené Aiko will be appearing on the upcoming project. On October 17, 2013, Ab-Soul stated that he was close to finalizing it. On October 25, Ab-Soul released a track, titled "Dub Sac". Later that week, he confirmed that his new album has been turned in for mixing and cleared up these rumors that it was initially titled Black Lip Pastor.

On January 6, 2014, in an interview with Bootleg Kev, when speaking on the album, Ab-Soul stated: "Ali is mixing it right now," and that they were waiting on the perfect way to present the project, as a result of creative releases such as Nipsey Hussle's Crenshaw. He also revealed that the album is about progression and confirmed there would be appearances from his TDE label-mates, as well as the production from a hip hop producer Statik Selektah. On April 18, 2014, Ab-Soul premiered a song, titled "Tree of Life", to promote the album. On May 5, 2014, Ab-Soul took to Twitter, announcing that his third solo effort would be titled These Days…. On May 22, Ab-Soul released a song, titled "Stigmata", via TDE's SoundCloud page. The song was produced by Rahki. The song was inspired by Nas' "The Cross", and features guest verses from Action Bronson and Philadelphia-based rapper Asaad. On May 30, its music video, which was directed by Dave Free and APLUSFILMZ, was released. The video clocks in a minute and a half, because of the removal of the two guest rappers' verses, finds a blood-soaked Ab-Soul, re-imagined as Jesus Christ, trekking alone through a desert environment with a wooden cross on his back and a crown of thorns on his head. The clip ends with the album's cover art and release date. Top Dawg management took it to Twitter to confirm that These Days… is scheduled for a June 24, release date. On June 1, 2014, Ab-Soul appeared on Hot 97's Real Late with Rosenberg, to discuss and promote the album. On June 10, he premiered the audio for a song off the album, titled "Hunnid Stax", featuring his Black Hippy cohort ScHoolboy Q. Ab-Soul performed "Stigmata" sans Action Bronson and Asaad on Revolt Live on June 19. On June 20, TDE released a music video for a song from the album, titled "Closure". On July 15, 2014, Top Dawg Ent. released the music video for "Hunnid Stax".

Critical reception

Professional ratings
Aggregate scores
SourceRating
Metacritic70/100
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusic
The A.V. ClubB−
AllHipHop7.5/10
Exclaim!7/10
HipHopDX
Paste7.7/10
Pitchfork Media7.7/10
PopMatters5/10
Rolling Stone
XXL4/5

These Days... received generally positive reviews from music critics. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from mainstream critics, the album received an average score of 70 based on 17 reviews, which indicates "generally favorable reviews". Jabbari Weaks of Exclaim! wrote "the self-proclaimed 'Genius, idiot' succeeds for the most part in moving out of his sonic comfort zone while toeing the lyrical line between enlightenment and ignorance." G. Avant of AllHipHop wrote "These Days was just one step further in solidifying the position of Ab-Soul and TDE as a collective for long term success." Eric Thurm of The A.V. Club noted "for someone so comfortable wearing his poetic heart on his sleeve, the black-lipped pastor has made an oddly distant album." Kellan Miller of XXL wrote "if he continues to release profound, well-rounded material, his name will no doubt be included in Top Five Lists across the board." Philip Cosores of Paste wrote "These days, there is almost always as much reason to be thinking deeply as there is to escape. That Ab-Soul tries to do both makes for a pretty entertaining ride, even when he technically falters." In a positive review, AllMusic's David Jeffries wrote "his third album is a bit scattered and a tad overwhelming, but those who like their hip-hop to be a mix of machismo and maverick can easily ignore these small bumps in the road, because These Days... offers a whirlwind of excellent hooks and exciting ideas." In a more critical review, Marshall Gu of PopMatters wrote that the album is "too long" and that it felt like Ab-Soul was "just trying to throw everything at the wall in the hopes that something will stick so that Interscope will take notice and finally sign him." Jon Dolan of Rolling Stone wrote "He rarely strives for the depth of Lamar or the intensity of Q; there's plenty of clever imagery on These Days . . ., but a fully realized dude never quite comes into focus."

Commercial performance

The album debuted at number 11 on the Billboard 200, with first-week sales of 21,812 copies in the United States.

Track listing

No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."God's Reign" (featuring SZA)Purity Ring4:18
2."Tree of Life"5:37
3."Hunnid Stax" (featuring Schoolboy Q)Kenny Beats3:23
4."Dub Sac"5:50
5."World Runners" (featuring Lupe Fiasco and Nikki Jean)TaeBeast5:02
6."Nevermind That" (featuring Rick Ross)The Kathy4:39
7."Twact" (featuring Yung Jinx and Short Dawg)
  • Stevens
  • Supreme Williams
  • Theron Morgan
  • Donte Blacksher
DNYC33:48
8."Just Have Fun"5:30
9."Kendrick Lamar's Interlude" (performed by Kendrick Lamar)Terrace Martin4:59
10."Closure"Sounwave3:28
11."Sapiosexual"J. Cole3:36
12."Stigmata" (featuring Action Bronson and Asaad)Rahki3:48
13."Feelin' Us" (featuring Jay Rock and RaVaughn)Skhye Hutch5:09
14."Ride Slow" (featuring Danny Brown and Delusional Thomas)Larry Fisherman7:21
15."W.R.O.H" (featuring JMSN)TaeBeast23:00
Total length:89:28

Notes

  • "God's Reign" features additional vocals by Isaiah Rashad.
  • "Tree of Life" features additional vocals by Audra the Rapper and Joey Badass.
  • "Hunnid Stax" features additional vocals by Mac Miller and Puff Daddy.
  • "Dub Sac" features additional vocals by A-Mack and Punch.
  • "World Runners" features additional vocals by Jade Honesty.
  • "Nevermind That" features additional vocals by BJ the Chicago Kid.
  • "Twact" features additional vocals by DoeBurger.
  • "Just Have Fun" features additional vocals by Dash, Mac Miller and F.O.A.R.
  • "Just Have Fun" contains the hidden track "These Days..." featuring The O'My's.
  • "Kendrick Lamar's Interlude" features additional vocals by JaVonté.
  • "Closure" features additional vocals by Jhené Aiko.
  • "Sapiosexual" features additional vocals by Bilal Chaudhry (B-Diddy), Jae Crizz, SZA and Isaiah Rashad.
  • "Ride Slow" features additional vocals by Earl Sweatshirt and DoeBurger.
  • "W.R.O.H" features additional vocals by Daylyt.

Sample credits

Charts

Weekly charts

Chart (2014) Peak
position
UK Albums (OCC) 96
UK R&B Albums (OCC) 7
US Billboard 200 11
US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums (Billboard) 2
US Top Rap Albums (Billboard) 2
US Independent Albums (Billboard) 3

Year-end charts

Chart (2014) Position
US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums (Billboard) 92

References

  1. Ramirez, Erika (30 May 2014). "The Juice Podcast Ab-Soul Talks 'These Days' Delays, Plus Ratking Interview". Billboard. Retrieved 7 June 2014.
  2. ^ Walsh, Peter (6 May 2014). "Ab-Soul's Album Title Is 'These days…'". XXLmag.com. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  3. ^ "Ab-Soul Talks New Music, T.D.E., and "These Days…" Album". Life+Times. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
  4. ^ Harling, Danielle (4 June 2014). "Ab-Soul Says "These Days…" Will Be A "Top Dawg Party"". HipHopDX.com. Retrieved 7 June 2014.
  5. Nostro, Lauren (6 Aug 2013). "Ab-Soul "Christopher DRONEr"". Complexmag.ca. Retrieved 6 Jun 2014.
  6. Johnson, Miranda (8 Aug 2013). "Ab-Soul Speaks On New Single And Upcoming Project With JMSN". XXLmag.com. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  7. Johnson, Miranda (17 Oct 2013). "Ab-Soul Is Putting The Final Touches On His Next Project". XXLmag.ca. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  8. "Ab-Soul – "Dub Sac" - Stereogum". Stereogum. 25 October 2013. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
  9. Lilah, Rose (22 Oct 2013). "Ab-Soul Talks On Upcoming Project & Confusion Surrounding Title, Isaiah Rashad & "Unit 6"". HotNewHipHop.com. Urbanlinx Media, Inc. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  10. Tardio, Andres (19 Oct 2013). "Ab-Soul Finalizing New Album, Title Unknown". HipHopDX.com. Cheri Media Group. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  11. ^ "Ab-Soul Interview w/ Bootleg Kev (Exclusive)". BootlegKev.com. BSC MultiMedia LLC. 6 January 2014. Retrieved 7 June 2014.
  12. "Listen to Ab-Soul's New Song "Tree Of Life"". Complex. 18 April 2014. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
  13. Gordon, Jeremy (23 May 2014). "Ab-Soul Teams With Action Bronson on Nas-Inspired "Stigmata"". Pitchfork Media. Retrieved 11 Jun 2014.
  14. ^ "Ab-Soul details new album, unveils video for 'Stigmata'". The 405. 31 May 2014. Archived from the original on June 2, 2014. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
  15. Lyons, Patrick (30 May 2014). "Ab-Soul "Stigmata" Video". HotNewHipHop.com. Retrieved 12 Jun 2014.
  16. "Ab-Soul Reveals Video for "Stigmata" & Album Release Date". Hypetrack.com. 30 May 2014. Retrieved 12 Jun 2014.
  17. Benton-Martin, Erika (31 May 2014). "Ab-Soul Releases 'These Days…' Album Art, Release Date And 'Stigmata' Teaser Video". MusicTimes.com. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  18. Frydenlund, Zach (30 May 2014). "Watch Ab-Soul's Video for "Stigmata"". Complexmag.com. Retrieved 7 Jun 2014.
  19. Karaslamb (10 Jun 2014). "Ab-Soul x Schoolboy Q – "Hunnid Stax"". Okayplayer.com. Retrieved 12 Jun 2014.
  20. Goddard, Kevin (19 Jun 2014). "Ab-Soul Performs 'Stigmata' On Revolt TV [New Video]". HotNewHipHop.com. Retrieved 21 Jun 2014.
  21. "Rap-Up.com -- Video: Ab-Soul – 'Closure'". Rap-Up.com. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
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Ab-Soul
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Studio albums
Featured singles
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