A$AP Ferg returns with “Nasty (Who Dat),” the third single from his third album, ‘Still Striving.’ Two of the Migos – Takeoff and Quavo – assist. 

Early indications seem to suggest that A$AP Ferg is returning to the sound that made him gain a respectable following.  That sound was captured on his debut Trap Lord, while his sophomore album, Always Strive and Prosper was more experimental. Still Striving arrives August 18, 2017, a pretty quick release turnaround.  In advance of the release of Still Striving, A$AP Ferg dropped three singles: “East Coast Remix,” “Plain Jane,” and “Nasty (Who Dat).”  

On “Nasty (Who Dat),” A$AP Ferg enlist Migos for the assist.  Seems fitting – Migos have been everywhere throughout 2017.  But there is one problem – only two of the Migos show up. Offset is missing in action, as Takeoff and Quavo trade bars on the second verse.  It is tough to fit three guest rappers on a two or three-verse song without making certain modifications.  To his credit, A$AP Ferg doesn’t let Migos take over – he’s is very much the star of “Nasty (Who Dat).”

The hook is catchy, but also quite annoying. A$AP Ferg introduces it to the world at the top of the song.  He doesn’t say much, literally: “Ay, ya, ya, ya, ya, ya, ya… / Who dat, who dat, who dat…” Continuing with the form of the song, he follows it up with a verse in which he repeats the first part.  Perhaps it’s for emphasis, or perhaps it’s a bit lazy.  His verse is followed by a bridge, which precedes the hook.  After that, Takeoff and Quavo do their thing for a verse, arguably the highlight of the song.  They are followed by a Ferg chorus, a Ferg bridge, then a Ferg chorus again.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Nasty (Who Dat)” is decent.  It has the qualifications to be a banger, yet nothing more.  The production is hard-hitting.  Takeoff and Quavo shine on their verses. A$AP Ferg has dropped better joints, while the Migos have become a bit saturated.

A$AP Ferg • Still Striving • RCA • Release: 8.18.17

Photo Credit: RCA