Listen to 2KBABY’s “Luigi”: Re-Upped

Welcome to Re-Upped, Audiomack’s new editorial series dedicated to spotlighting the best and hottest new songs across genres and across the globe. For a playlist of all Re-Upped selections, click here. Enjoy the vibes.

2KBABY — “Luigi” feat. Chief Keef

All 2KBABY ever wanted was to be heard. A move to Atlanta and a viral song in “Old Streets” (plus a Lil Durk remix) led to the Louisville native’s 2020’s debut project, Pregame Rituals. In the year since, 2KBABY has stayed dropping singles—and a “stimulus” care package for fans—and honing his melodic sound. The pain music he makes isn’t all too dour, with colorful inflections and breathless raps mixed in to liven things up.

“Luigi” sees the rapper pair up with a young OG, Chief Keef. Over production from Zachary Foster, we get the sense these two should’ve collabed long ago the way their rich vocals complement each other. Shootouts and horror stories give way to 2K’s blistering singing. “I know I’m gon’ die alone / I walk in the stu’ and I write my wrong,” bursts with ingenuity. “My biggest fear is going back broke—I’m working,” 2K told me back in 2020. We can tell.

Donna-Claire Chesman

October 25, 2021