Killer Mike is fervently championing his most recent album, MICHAEL, as deserving “Album of the Year.” In an exclusive interview with SOHH, the Atlanta rap icon expressed his appreciation for the album’s warm reception and divulged personal anecdotes that shaped its creation.
‘Album of The Year’
Atlanta rap legend Killer Mike passionately advocates for his latest album, MICHAEL, to be recognized as the “Album of the Year.”
In an exclusive interview with SOHH, the “RUN” rapper expressed his gratitude for the album’s positive reception and shared personal stories that influenced its creation. Killer Mike was at the ONE Musicfest in Atlanta during the weekend of Oct. 28 and Oct. 29, and when asked how he felt about the album being in the conversation of the best drops of the year, Killer Mike responded, “Album of the year, easy.”
MICHAEL, released on June 16, 2023, after the Atlanta native’s solo career hiatus, and is Killer Mike’s first solo album since 2012’s R.A.P. Music. Killer Mike had previously done four albums with Run The Jewels partner El-P.
The album, which showcases the artist’s upbringing and autobiographical narratives, reached No. 12 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It features collaborations with highly regarded artists such as Andre 3000, Future, Young Thug, CeeLo Green, 6Lack, and 2 Chainz.
Grammy Nomination?
Fans and social media users have praised MICHAEL as one of the best rap albums of the year.
One user on X commented, “That Killer Mike album is still the best album that came out this year.” Another user commented, “ The best album of the year without question for me @KillerMike with Michael.”
Killer Mike’s desire for recognition extends beyond fan acclaim. As Grammy nominations approach on Nov. 10, he hopes that MICHAEL will receive a nomination.
This nomination would mark a significant achievement for the rapper, who previously won a Grammy in 2003 as a featured artist on OutKast’s “The Whole World,” which won “Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group.” A potential win for MICHAEL would be a second victory and a testament to Killer Mike’s enduring talent.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Killer Mike made headlines in May for acquiring a new banking platform called Kinly. This acquisition aligns with his goal of promoting financial literacy in the Black community and fostering economic empowerment for Black and brown communities.
Does Hit-Boy Deserve ‘Producer of the Year’
Another artist vying for award recognition is the acclaimed producer Hit-Boy. His producing collective, Surf Club, has made an official press release advocating for his consideration in the “Producer Of The Year” category at the Grammys. Hit-Boy’s prolific collaborations with artists such as Nas, Travis Scott, Beyoncé, and more significantly bolster his candidacy for this esteemed award.