Westside Gunn Song Lyrics

Westside Gunn: A Pioneer in the Revival of Underground Hip-Hop

In a world where mainstream hip-hop often dominates the airwaves, few artists have managed to carve out a distinct lane as effectively as Westside Gunn. Known for his gritty lyricism, vivid storytelling, and unrelenting work ethic, Westside Gunn has redefined the boundaries of underground rap, positioning himself as one of the most influential figures in modern hip-hop. His unique style, rooted in the traditions of 90s rap while embracing avant-garde production, has earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim across the globe.

Early Life and Background

Born on July 27, 1982, in Buffalo, New York, Westside Gunn, whose birth name is Alvin Lamar Worthy, was introduced to music at an early age. Raised in a tough urban environment, Gunn was influenced by the realities of street life and the iconic sounds of 90s rap. It was this combination of harsh surroundings and musical influence that shaped his style—a blend of nostalgia for golden-era hip-hop with a contemporary twist. In his youth, Gunn found solace in the music of artists like Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and other members of the Wu-Tang Clan, whose raw lyricism and cinematic storytelling left a lasting impression. But it wasn’t just the music that inspired him—it was also the struggle of growing up in a city like Buffalo, which often went overlooked in mainstream hip-hop narratives. Gunn’s experiences would later fuel the rich, detailed worlds he paints in his lyrics. Westside Gunn began his musical journey in the early 2010s, working alongside his brother, Conway the Machine, and friend Benny the Butcher, who would all go on to form the legendary collective Griselda Records. Griselda’s early work was marked by an authenticity and grit that harkened back to the boom-bap sounds of New York rap's golden era, but with a modern, unfiltered edge.

Musical Style and Evolution

Westside Gunn’s music is a complex fusion of multiple influences, blending the streetwise authenticity of 90s New York rap with avant-garde, experimental production. His style is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, with an emphasis on hard-hitting beats, abstract lyricism, and an unrelenting energy that makes his tracks stand out in the hip-hop landscape. Genre Fusion: At the core of Westside Gunn's music is a love for traditional boom-bap, but he isn’t confined by genre. His tracks often draw on influences from the underground rap scene, incorporating elements of soul, jazz, and even horrorcore. This genre-blurring approach allows him to keep his sound fresh and unpredictable, often pulling from unexpected places. Lyrical Themes: Gunn's lyrics are gritty and filled with street wisdom, often reflecting his experiences in the streets of Buffalo, New York. He tells tales of street life, struggles, survival, and success with a kind of detached coolness that makes his bars feel cinematic. His lyrical approach can be bleak at times, but it’s delivered with such finesse that it pulls listeners into his world. Instrumentation: Westside Gunn is known for collaborating with some of the most talented producers in hip-hop, including the legendary Alchemist, Daringer, and Beat Butcha. The production on his tracks is haunting, with many of his beats featuring eerie samples, minimalistic percussion, and gritty textures that complement his raw delivery. This creates an atmosphere of tension and suspense, as though every track is a cinematic experience.

Career Milestones

Westside Gunn’s career has been marked by a series of breakthrough moments. His first major project, *Flygod* (2016), established his reputation as a heavyweight in underground rap. The album was met with critical acclaim, with tracks like “Westside Devine” and “Benny the Butcher” solidifying Gunn’s place in hip-hop. In 2017, he followed up with *Supreme Blientele*, which further honed his craft, earning praise for its intricate wordplay and cohesive production. The album’s lead single, “The Flygod Is An Awesome God,” showcased Gunn’s knack for blending street narratives with abstract artistry. Perhaps his most significant milestone came with the release of *Pray for Paris* (2020). The album was a cultural reset, featuring high-profile collaborations with artists like Tyler, The Creator, and Joey Bada$$. *Pray for Paris* was lauded for its experimental production and thoughtful lyricism, marking Westside Gunn’s arrival as a major player in the contemporary rap scene. Throughout his career, Westside Gunn has been nominated for several awards and has enjoyed chart success, with numerous projects entering the top 20 of the Billboard 200. His influence in the underground rap scene cannot be overstated, with critics and fans alike citing his ability to bring an old-school vibe to new school production.

Discography Overview

Westside Gunn’s discography spans several albums, mixtapes, and collaborations, each contributing to his legacy as one of the most innovative figures in rap today. Here are some of his key works:

• Flygod (2016) – Gunn's debut studio album, which helped cement his place in the underground rap world.
• Supreme Blientele (2017) – A critical follow-up that refined his sound and cemented his style.
• Pray for Paris (2020) – A defining moment in his career, showcasing his ability to balance artistic expression with mainstream appeal.
• Hitler Wears Hermes Series (2010-2020) – A long-running mixtape series that blends gritty, street-level narratives with abstract production.
• Flygod Is An Awesome God (2019) – A more introspective and spiritual project, with Gunn reflecting on his journey in the music industry.

Many of Gunn’s tracks have become fan favorites, with *"The Butcher Coming"* and *"L’s"*, featuring Benny the Butcher, earning widespread acclaim. These tracks showcase Gunn’s ability to create an immersive world with his words, where every line feels like a scene from a street-level film noir.

“I see myself as a modern-day Picasso, painting pictures with my words, giving you a vision of what I’ve been through.”

Westside Gunn

Impact and Influence

Westside Gunn’s influence stretches far beyond his music. As a founder of Griselda Records, he has redefined what it means to be an independent artist in the modern era. Griselda’s collective vision has brought Buffalo to the forefront of hip-hop, and Westside Gunn’s leadership within the group has created a new blueprint for independent artists who seek creative freedom while achieving commercial success. His success has also paved the way for other artists in the underground rap scene, inspiring a new generation of lyricists who value authenticity and creativity over commercial appeal.

Fan Engagement

Westside Gunn’s relationship with his fans is one of mutual respect and admiration. His live shows are a testament to his dedicated following, with fans often quoting his lyrics word-for-word. He is known for his deep connection to his audience, often taking the time to engage with fans on social media and at concerts. Gunn’s ability to create an intimate bond with his listeners is also reflected in his philanthropic efforts, where he has been vocal about giving back to his community and helping the next generation of artists find their voice.

Artists Who Resonate with Westside Gunn

Artists who share a similar style or influence to Westside Gunn include his Griselda colleagues, such as Benny the Butcher and Conway the Machine. Additionally, the gritty, cinematic nature of his lyrics aligns him with artists like Jay Electronica, Roc Marciano, and even Nas during his early years.

“We are the street poets, and our music speaks for those who can't speak for themselves.”

Westside Gunn Westside Gunn’s work continues to resonate with fans who crave authenticity and artistry in hip-hop. Whether it's his vivid lyricism or his ability to bring together an eclectic mix of producers and collaborators, he remains a cornerstone of underground rap. His evolution as an artist, and his ability to stay true to his roots while embracing new influences, makes him a unique and irreplaceable figure in the music world today.