Backed by an angelic backdrop, Trippie Redd doesn’t stick with a spiritual script on “Topanga,” where the rapper spits about guns and violence.

The new school of rappers are an interesting bunch – understatement.  Among the members of that new school is Trippie Redd, who continues to bring a melodic approach to rap.  Redd released an album in 2018, Life’s a Trip, but seems to embrace the Jay-Z mantra of “On to the Next One”.  Why? On October 22, 2018, he released a new single, totally unattached to Life’s a Trip, “Topanga.”

“Topanga” definitely isn’t your everyday name for a rap single.  The first thing that came to mind before ever listening was Boy Meets World – man, am I showing my age! Anyways, Trippie Redd isn’t rapping about Cory Matthews’ eventual wife, but rather Topanga, California.  The record itself is beautiful, produced by ChopSquad DJ. It incorporating a contemporary gospel sensibility within the production, amplified by the Maurette Brown Clark, “It Ain’t Over”. Besides the harmonic progression, Clark can be heard highly pitch-shifted on the recurrent lyric, “It ain’t over.” Also worth noting is the gorgeous piano, rhythmic drum programming, and angelic sounds, sigh.

The backdrop suits Trippie Redd without a doubt.  While there’s a sense of church to some degree, there’s ultimately nothing religious about “Topanga.” The memorable chorus is evidence of this, with its profanity and mention of guns and violence:

“Don’t talk to strangers
Since a youngin’ I’ve been totin’ bangers
I might take that lil bitch to Topanga
I said, ‘Stop, little bitch, you in danger’
Yeah-eah, you in danger
I might take your lil ass to Topanga
Just don’t move like no motherfuckin’ strangers
Know I tote bangers, boom-boom-boom-boom
Stop, you in danger.”

Last time I checked, cursing isn’t usually part of the church service…  A post-chorus follows the chorus, featuring one spiritual lyric, however – “Open my hand like Jesus and save ya…”

Final Thoughts 

My advice – don’t play “Topanga” for the church members, particularly the pastor.  It’s highly unlikely the reverend/priest/rabbi/father will be pleased with numerous iterations of bitch, nigga, and guns.  Well… with the guns, there is that scripture about “an eye for an eye…” Secularly speaking, Trippie Redd has a record on hand with some great moments, particularly the production.  His delivery is unique – perhaps an acquired taste – but there’s potential by all means.

Trippie Redd • “Topanga” [Single] • TenThousand Projects • Release: 10.22.18

Photo Credit: TenThousand Projects