Ab-Soul: An Underrated Hip-Hop Legend
Ab-Soul—Soul, SouloHOE, whatever you call him—has been on heavy rotation for me lately. I’ve known about him since I was younger, thanks to my brother and his album Control System (Track Two was my favorite song). But back then, I didn’t fully grasp his depth, and he wasn’t often played in my dad’s truck. However, every time I heard him on features, I was captivated by his unique voice, cadence, and delivery. Now, I believe Ab-Soul is one of the most underrated artists in hip-hop and deserves his flowers.
Herbert Anthony Stevens IV, known as Ab-Soul, is a Carson, California-raised rapper signed to the iconic T.D.E. label alongside Kendrick Lamar, SchoolBoy Q, and Jay Rock. While I beleive Kendrick is killing the game right now in hip-hop and is an outstanding artist, the spotlight is often on him and Ab-Soul’s brilliance is frequently overlooked. I want to share my love and appreciation for his artistry.
Soul Burger: A Masterpiece
Ab-Soul’s Soul Burger album
When I heard about Ab-Soul’s latest album, Soul Burger, released on November 8, 2024, I knew I had to listen. I hadn’t fully explored his work before, but now, as an older listener, I was ready to dive in. From the first track, 9 Mile, I was hooked. The song opens with Back to Life (However Do You Want Me) by Soul II Soul before transitioning into Shook Ones by Mobb Deep, with Ab-Soul mirroring Eminem’s 8 Mile delivery. The creativity was undeniable.
Through 9 Mile, I learned about his struggles—raising two daughters, a suicide attempt on the Del Amo Blvd bridge, and raw personal experiences. He was transparent, and I appreciated that. The album title itself is a tribute to his close friend Armon “Doe Burger” Stringer, who had passed.
“Shit ain’t been the same without Armon, shit we was on you would’ve thought we was out our mind, couple of tickin’ time bombs, don’t step on our mine…”
After hearing Soul Burger in full, I played it daily—on my way to school, home, and with friends. It deepened my respect for Ab-Soul, both as an artist and a person. It even led me to revisit his 2022 album Herbert, another phenomenal project that resonated with my personal experiences and struggles.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Ab-Soul’s Herbert album
Ab-Soul’s Skillset: A True Wordsmith
Ab-Soul has it all—wordplay, metaphors, confidence, and an unmistakable West Coast style. Even Kendrick Lamar acknowledged his lyrical prowess in Heart Pt. 6:
“Ab-Soul in the corner mumblin’ raps, fumblin’ packs of Black N’ Mild, crumblin’ kush till he cracked a smile. His words legendary, wishin’ I could rhyme like him, studied his style to define my pen…”
Favorite Tracks from Soul Burger
The album blends classic Ab-Soul with fresh sounds and innovative concepts, featuring artists like Vince Staples, Doechii, Ty Dolla $ign, Punch, Lupe Fiasco, and more. Here are my top picks:
Standout Favorites: 9 mile, Paiday, All That (feat. JasonMartin & Thirsty P), California Dream (feat. Vince Staples & Kamm Carson), B.U.C.K.O. Jr, I, Myself & Me (feat. Doechii), Dnd (feat. NOTORIOUS N.I.Q.), Go Pro (feat. Ty Dolla $ign), Squeeze 1st 2, Peace (feat. Lupe Fiasco & Punch), The Sky Is Limitless (feat. Blxst & Asia Holiday), and Righteous Man…So basically most of the album.
Most Lyrical & Impactful: 9 Mile, B.U.C.K.O. Jr, Squeeze 1st 2, Peace, The Sky Is Limitless, and Righteous Man
Righteous Man samples Kendrick Lamar’s How Much a Dollar Cost off his To Pimp a Butterfly album, which I saw as a respectful nod to one of his closest peers.
One of the most emotional songs, Peace (feat. Lupe Fiasco & Punch), is a tribute to Doe Burger. Midway through, Ab-Soul uses AI to replicate Doe’s voice, creating a chilling dialogue where Doe speaks to him from the afterlife:
“Leave them fuckin’ drugs alone, get on your A-game. You gettin’ old, it’s gettin’ cold every day, gang. I’m glad yo’ ass was in a cast and not in a casket. You coulda died but you survived, now get yo’ cash, bitch. Kiss my nieces for me, practice what you preachin’, homie. Cuz, I’m in heaven racin’ black sillis with Jesus on gold roads. Get your soul, don’t worry ’bout me…”
This is a prime example of the depth, thought, and love Ab-Soul puts into his music.
Final Thoughts
If you love hip-hop, you need to listen to Ab-Soul. His transparency, authenticity, legendary wordplay, and unique voice set him apart. He’s more than just a rapper—he’s an artist with a message. Give him the recognition he deserves.
Listen to Soul Burger and Ab-Soul’s other songs and projects now on Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube.
© 2025 Lauryn C. Powell
