Staples, Vince: Dark Times LP

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Vince Staples’ Dark Times serves as the Long Beach rapper’s sixth studio album and is a snapshot of Staples presently: on top of the world on the surface, but reality might be trickier. Throughout the album’s thirteen tracks, he grapples with life’s heaviness, all while understanding what the gravity of his work means in the grand scheme of things.

Vince Staples, born on July 2, 1993, in Compton, California, is an American rapper and songwriter. He grew up in Long Beach and became involved in the local rap scene during his teenage years. Staples first gained attention through his collaborations with the Odd Future collective, particularly with Earl Sweatshirt and Mike G.

In 2014, Staples released his debut EP, "Hell Can Wait," which included the critically acclaimed singles "Hands Up" and "Blue Suede." This project showcased his gritty lyrics and distinct voice, earning him a strong following. He followed up with his debut studio album, "Summertime '06," in 2015, a double album that further solidified his place in the hip-hop industry with its dark and introspective themes.

Staples' subsequent projects, including "Big Fish Theory" (2017) and "FM!" (2018), received widespread critical acclaim for their innovative production and sharp social commentary. Known for his candidness about social issues and his dry wit, Staples has become a respected voice in contemporary hip-hop.