It was a year ago on 3rd February 2017, that Big Sean released his fourth studio album ‘I Decided.’
Leading up to the release, he explained that the theme of the record was to be centered around rebirth, with the album cover depicting two versions of himself, his present, and his future. Appearing on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, he said “So the album is basically like having that wisdom of an old man while you’re young and going through life & figuring it out.”
Upon its release, it garnered positive reviews, reaching the top spot on the Billboard 200, as well a Top 20 position on the official UK charts. The record went platinum and Sean completed a successful US tour in support of the album.
It’s almost unbelievable that it’s been a year since its release as the replay value of ‘I Decided’ only increases with each listen.
We have picked out a few of our highlights in honour of the Detroit performer.
The Light
Featuring R&B vocalist Jeremih, this track is both beautiful and encouraging, lyrically. The video, a powerful visual directed by Lawrence Lamont, tackles issues of police violence and brutality. Big Sean spoke passionately on his Twitter account regarding the video and revealed he had paid for the video himself, in order to release it for awareness.
Bounce Back
Released as the lead single in late 2016, we love the bravado and confidence of Big Sean on this. Bounce Back, is about learning and moving on from our mistakes, something we could all learn from, and has become a signature tune.
Jump Out The Window
This bop tells the story of Big Sean intervening in his lady friend’s abusive relationship, and whilst talking her out of it, he’s also professing his love to her. Once again, a hard hitting and real topic that he’s talking about, and he really just hit us in the gut with the line ‘The question isn’t, “Do he love ya?”
The question is, “Do ya love yourself?.”
Voices In My Head/Stick To The Plan
Something we can can all relate to, The G.O.O.D music artist faces his demons and defeats them in this two parter. Voices In My Head echoes the dark thoughts we all have whilst Sean Don fights back ferociously on Stick To The Plan.
Inspire Me
We love how Sean shows us each side of his personality in his music. We’ve seen the dark side, and this highlight is dedicated to his beloved mother and the influence she holds over him. It’s touching to see the bond between him and his family, and to hear of how supportive they’ve been in the growth of his career.
Sacrifices
It’s always bound to be a hit when ATL rap trio Migos pair up with the Detroit musician. The guys roll off the sacrifices they’ve made, in this fan favourite.
Bigger Than Me
The last song on the album is the best way to complete this introspective journey he has just taken through.
Featuring The Flint Chozen Choir & Starrah, this uplifting piece of gospel rap sees the hitmaker reflect on his journey. The track ends with a phone call between his mother, where he repeats this thoughts that he is living his second life, this time to his best having learned from his mistakes.
The one word to describe this record is enlightening. We would like to thank Big Sean for creating such an honest and inspirational album and can’t wait to see what he does next.
What’s your favourite Big Sean Song? Let us know on Twitter @CelebMix!