Ahead of his fourth studio album, ‘Flower Boy,’ Tyler, the Creator issued two promo singles: “Who Dat Boy” and “911 / Mr. Lonely.”

He’s back – Tyler, the Creator that is! The underground rapper certainly has a reputation for his raw, unapologetic rhymes.  While TTC is rough around the edges, he also brings a lot to the game, including his creative production work.  After a two-year hiatus, Tyler returns with his fourth studio album, Flower Boy.  Ahead of Flower Boy, he issued two promo singles: “Who Dat Boy” and “911 / Mr. Lonely.”

Two-part song “911 / Mr. Lonely” has a lot going on.  “911” ends up being smoother than “Mr. Lonely.” While this was released as a joint single with “Who Dat Boy” (a portion of “911” is featured in the video for “Who Dat Boy”), the two tracks aren’t side-by-side on Flower Boy.

Tyler, the Creator is assisted by Steve Lacy, Ann of the North, Syd, and Frank Ocean on “911.”  Even with so many friends helping him out, Tyler remains the star.  The focus is wooing and pursuing a lady.  On the first verse, he delivers some killer pop culture references and wordplay.

“My thirst levels are infinity and beyond / Sippin’ on that Lemonade, I need a Beyoncé / Can’t see straight, these shades are Céline Dion / Sucks you can’t gas me up, shout out to Elon Musk…”

All of this seems to be part of the game he’s putting on her.  However, even after Frank Ocean gives Tyler a lift, her comes “Mr. Lonely.” As touched on earlier, “Mr. Lonely” goes harder than “911,” which is smoother. A few more friends provide a small assist on the intro – A$AP Rocky and ScHoolboy Q.  Tyler, the Creator characterizes himself, following the intro.

“They say the loudest in the room is weak / That’s what they assume, but I disagree / I say the loudest in the room / Is prolly the loneliest one in the room (that’s me).”

Beyond his initial characterization, he expounds in ferocious fashion.  He concludes by referring back to “911”:

“Treat me like direct deposit / Check in on me sometime / Ask me how I’m really doin’ / So I never have to press that 911.”

Final Thoughts 

Following up “Who Dat Boy” is tough.  Luckily, Tyler, Creator concocts more magic on “911 / Mr. Lonely.” If you had to pick, would you pick “Who Dat Boy” or “911 / Mr. Lonely?” “Who Dat Boy” would win, but “911 / Mr. Lonely” is another capable song without question.    

Tyler, the Creator • Flower Boy • Columbia • Release: 7.21.71

Photo Credit: Columbia