Reading Time: 2 min read

4 out of 5 stars

Gucci Mane, I'm Not Goin' [Photo Credit: Atlantic]Southern rapper Gucci Mane delivers one of his best bangers in some time on “I’m Not Goin’” featuring fellow southern rapper Kevin Gates.

“They love my drip, you know I’m statin’ facts (I’m not goin’).” Gucci Mane has been incredibly prolific since being released from prison in 2016.  Album after album, and single after single have been issued at the hands of the mush-mouthed southern rapper. Releasing so much material, it’s easy to become saturated as an artist.  That’s happened with Gucci to a degree, even if he’s always good for a banger.  On “I’m Not Goin’,” Gucci confirms ‘he’s always good for a banger,’ getting the assist from Kevin Gates.

There’s plenty to rave about “I’m Not Goin’.”  First and foremost is the eerie, malicious production work. Yes, Gucci Mane often has a sick backdrop to fuel his fire, but “I’m Not Goin’” feels extra special.  The hard-hitting beat, and mysterious, chilling synths perfectly complement both Gucci and Gates.  Following a brief intro, Gucci blesses us with one of his better hooks in some time:

“They told me, ‘Stop buying all these fancy cars’

They told me, ‘Please take all your diamonds off’

I’m gettin’ too rich to fly commercial flights

They wanna lock me up like Suge Knight

I know that bitch want me to go for that (But I don’t wanna)

But I’m too rich to put my dick in that (Bitch, I’m not gonna, no) …”

Beautiful, in a southern rap, ‘DGAF’ sort of way.  Kevin Gates continues the flex-fest on the first verse, adding some toughness with his distinct, deep vocals.  No, nothing he serves up is transcendent but ‘da-yum,’ does he ride the beat well.  Following another iteration of his sick chorus, Gucci Mane delivers his sole verse, continuing to flex like the boss he is.  Fittingly, he blesses us for a third time with that marvelous, gritty hook.


Final Thoughts

Yes, Gucci Mane is arguably ‘extra’ given how much music he releases, but he ‘hits the nail on the head’ with “I’m Not Goin’.” This is among his best bangers in some time, and Kevin Gates serves as the perfect featured guest. It may not be transcendent, but it’s certainly a must-have, guilty pleasure.

4 out of 5 stars


Gucci Mane » I’m Not Goin’ (Ft. Kevin Gates) [Single] » Atlantic » Release: 11.15.18
Photo Credit: Atlantic

 

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

Verified by MonsterInsights