Travis Scott, Highest in the Room | Track Review 🎵

Grammy-nominated rapper Travis Scott returns with the vibe-filled “Highest in the Room,” which seems to reference his ended relationship with Kylie Jenner.

Anytime a new Travis Scott single arrives, it’s ‘kind of a big deal.’ Post-ASTROWORLD, one of the most successful rappers of late returns with “Highest in the Room.” The record opens with an enigmatic intro, while the entirety of the record sports those signature vibes associated with the rapper. If you know Travis, you’ll definitely catch my drift. “Highest in the Room” was produced by OZ and Nik D, featuring chill, sleek production work overall, including rhythmic drum programming.  “Highest in the Room” could be described as possessing a ‘calm energy’ of sorts.

“When I’m with you, I feel alive / You say you love me, don’t you lie / Won’t cross my heart, don’t wanna die / Keep the pistol on my side…” Travis Scott delivers easy-going, low-key rhymes. He doesn’t necessarily say much ‘explicitly,’ but reading into his lyrics, such as the aforementioned excerpt from the first verse, you can trace some of the personal elements. Those personal elements seemed to be tied to his relationship (now a breakup) with Kylie Jenner.  Sure, “We ain’t stressin’ ‘bout the loot…” on the second verse could be referring to his crew, but Kylie Jenner is off the charts financially, just like her ex. Then there’s also the double entendre of the following lyrics:

“Gorgeous, baby, keep me hard as steel
… We gon’ stay on top and break the rules
Uh, I fill my mind up with ideas…”

Additionally, Scott also references the vices of fame, including literally being high, etc. The chorus, which first appears at the beginning, slightly altered, is simple, but effective given the weight of ‘vibes’ when it comes to Travis’ music:

“Case it’s fumes (Smoke)
She fill my mind up with ideas (Straight up)
I’m the highest in the room (It’s lit)
Hope I make it outta here (Let’s go, yeah).”

Shifting back to the production, there are some additional cues during the final minute of the record. These keeps things fresh and also elevate the energy and intensity level up a notch.  That said, “Highest in the Room” is pretty hypnotic throughout.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Highest in the Room” could’ve appeared on ASTROWORLD and fit perfectly fine.  Travis Scott doesn’t change up his approach, but this is another solid record, period.  The personal touches, delivered through allusions without specifics, is a pro. As always, it’s the vibe that makes “Highest in the Room” a winner.

Travis Scott • Highest in the Room [Single] • Epic • Release: 10.4.19

Photo Credit: Epic