D.R.A.M. returns with a new single, “Gilligan,” featuring Juicy J and A$AP Rocky.  On “Gilligan,” he moves away from singing.

It’s safe to say that D.R.A.M. had a big year in 2016.  Sure, his debut album Big Baby D.R.A.M. hasn’t been a massive breakthrough commercially, but it showcases tremendous potential.  More importantly, D.R.A.M. broke through thanks to hit single “Broccoli,” easily one of the most fun songs of the year.  Assisted by Lil Yachty (for better or for worse), “Broccoli” was infectious AF.  The fun-loving rapper/singer returns with a new single, “Gilligan,” assisted by A$AP Rocky and Juicy J.  

 Listen one time, and it’s clear that D.R.A.M. is opting for a harder rap sound as opposed to pop-rap or R&B.  The production work, co-produced by D.R.A.M. and Juicy J, echoes and anchors this sentiment, making “Gilligan” a banger.  The hook arrives near the top of the record, following the intro:

“Gone off the shit again, that’s just how I live / Lost just like Gilligan on my own Island.”

The hook isn’t instantly catchy, but give it a few listens, and it’ll get stuck in your head. He follows the hook with a verse, which is anything but profound.  Basically, D.R.A.M. raps about money, material things, and the lifestyle.

Juicy J arrives on the second verse.  It doesn’t take him long to reference strippers:

“I got stripper hoes snortin’ blow, dancin’ in my place.”

Most of his verse, however, references substances, including cocaine and lean.  When he mentions “purple rain,” he isn’t talking about the most famous Prince song of them all.  A$AP Rocky takes the third and final verse, and is the only rapper of the three to use Gilligan during his verse.  Basically, A$AP Rocky takes the opportunity to flex, including a notable reference to once popular rapper, Cam’ron (“All pink like I’m Killa Cam”).

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Gilligan” is another enjoyable new single from D.R.A.M.  It doesn’t supplant “Broccoli” by any means, but this change of pace is successful.  Does he excel more at pop-rap and R&B? Yes, but “Gilligan” shows his versatility in approach.  Lyrically, well, “Gilligan” is what it is.

D.R.A.M. • Gilligan – single • EMPIRE / Atlantic • Release: 4.21.17

Photo Credit: EMPIRE / Atlantic