Iggy Azalea, a rapper-turned-model-turned-rapper from Australia, is a paragon of musical talent. After teasing audiences for years with EPs and mixtapes, Azalea has finally released her debut album, "The New Classic." Riddled with powerful tracks, "The New Classic" is a total game changer in the world of female hip-hop. It would, however, be a mistake to relegate Azalea or her debut to the female sub-genre of hip hop. Drawing inspiration from her sordid past and her recent transition from underground wunderkind to mainstream breakout, Azalea has consistently produced music that is bawdy, unique and unapologetically sexual. "The New Classic" is just another stellar addition to Azalea's growing portfolio of groundbreaking discography.
Indeed, it's hard to imagine a rapper with a more bizarre backstory. Growing up in New South Wales, Australia, Azalea dropped out of high school, worked as a housekeeper with her mom to save money and ultimately made her way to the United States alone to be a part of the hip-hop and R&B scene. The hook from the album's lead single, "Work," speaks to Azalea's journey to stardom: "No money / No family / Sixteen in the middle of Miami." Totally addictive and secretly profound, this track is a perfect beginning to "The New Classic." Azalea not only flaunts her body, her sexuality and her swagger, but her music also speaks openly about her work ethic and dedication to the craft. Though "Work" is ultimately a tribute to Azalea's hard road to fame, it is peppered with the rapper's trademark indulgent raunchiness and brazen commentary: "Valley girls giving blowjobs for Louboutins / What you call that? / Head over heels."
The album features remarkable tracks that showcase tremendous growth since earlier releases. The influences of notable producers like T.I. and Diplo, coupled with inspiration from other rappers, have spurred Azalea to reach new heights while remaining grounded by her own experiences. Azalea's newfound notoriety has spawned comparisons to other female rappers and pop artists; with the grit of Azealia Banks, the hubris of Nicki Minaj, the attitude of Kesha and even the vocal chops of Katy Perry, Azalea brings together all of the best part of her counterparts in her over-the-top character.
Thanks to her collaboration with Diplo, Azalea now incorporates more electronic and house influences into her music. "Fancy," the third single off of "The New Classic," showcases Azalea's ability to branch out while maintaining her own sound. Azalea's first song to make it to the Billboard Hot 100, "Fancy" is a simple but punchy track. Leading with stark, shiny synths and aided by the vocals of underground synth-pop diva Charli XCX, this song is a modern club banger with heart. And though the album has no shortage of glitzy hits, modest tunes shine through and steal the spotlight.
One great example is the track that follows "Fancy," "New Bitch." A tribute to the awkward complexities of being someone's most recent love interest, "New Bitch" is irreverent and catchy. Also a strong number, "Rolex" flaunts synth sections and percussion that harken back to Kanye West's most recent release, "Yeezus" (2013). "Rolex" is a relaxed track, but worthy of attention.
Ultimately, "The New Classic" is compelling and one-of-a-kind. Azalea diverges from the archetype of the female rapper, though she also shows off her sexuality and skill like many of her counterparts do. Azalea's steadfast dedication to her roots and original personality set her apart. As a youngster in Australia looking to American hip-hop for inspiration and direction, Azalea put her future on the line for a shot at making it big. This stunning debut, along with her previous releases, prove that Azalea isn't wasting her chance. Keep your eyes on this talented artist — given her auspicious beginning, she'll continue to release new classics for years to come.
Iggy Azalea brings fire with debut album
