There's a question mark at the end of A$AP Rocky's new single title-which gives a sense of where he's at in life. After the release of his latest album Testing in 2018, Rocky has had much time to reflect on life, his artistry, and the impact he and his peers have had on the world. Aside from a number of singles and features, Rocky has not released another full-length project, which adds weight to "Same Problems?".
"I think we all need time for growth. I think that it's pointless for artists to put out music when they have no fuel or no subject matter. Sometimes, I need to live a bit to give you the right subject matter to convey my experiences," shared the artist in an interview with Zane Lowe. In the span of time Rocky allowed himself to experience, his observations of the culture he partakes in became sharper.
Opened by what sounds like a Thundercat intro (he is credited on the track), "Same Problems?" take on a minimal atmospheric arrangement to deliver its poignant message. Rapping in half-whispers, Rocky questioned multiple aspects of his life and career, "Am I a product of things that I saw? Am I a product of things in my songs? Am I a product of all of my flaws?" The main question, however, hits the hardest; "How many problems get solved/If we don't get involved?"
In the track, Rocky mourned the loss of his fellow rappers who passed to various causes, namely gun violence and drug overdose. It is also no mere coincidence that the single was released on January 18, 2023, the 8-year anniversary of the passing of A$AP Yams-Rocky's close friend and the mastermind behind A$AP Mob's ascent.
The irony is not lost on Rocky that his first hit is "Fuckin' Problems", a song that's now 10 years old. Rocky, now more mature and introspective, is still facing the same issues that plague hip-hop culture-only now he's more aware of the position he holds within said culture.
Both in soundscape and lyrical subjects, Rocky's maturation is apparent. In a time where rappers churn out music at a breakneck pace just to stay relevant-irregardless of actual substance-Rocky's decision to step back sets him apart and affirms his standing. After the track ends, the sentiment in "Same Problems?" still lingers and haunts.
(alm/tim)