Wiz Khalifa’s “Fly Times” blends foreign and familiar

Solid production but predictable lyrics make Wiz’s latest project a mixed bag.

Adam Pigott, Staff Writer • April 27, 2019

Wiz Khalifa’s “Fly Times” blends foreign and familiar

Photo courtesy of Courtesy of rhymehiphop.com

If someone were to tell you Wiz Khalifa has not accomplished anything, their statement would be the furthest thing from the truth. Khalifa’s albums “Rolling Papers” and “O.N.I.F.C” and mixtapes series “Cabin Fever” cement him as one of the most well-known Pittsburgh-bred artists. However, it is safe to say Khalifa has surpassed his prime. His lyrics and flow are incredibly predictable, but the impressive production and new features allow a few tracks to shine.

EXPERIENCED PRODUCTION

Because of its nostalgic vibes, “Big Pride” remains a favorite from the album. The beat is powerful, and he exerts energy similar to those from albums “Blacc Hollywood” and the “Khalifa” mixtape. Produced by Atlanta native TM88, who worked with Wiz Khalifa and Juicy J on the collaboration album “Rude Awakening,” the implementation of the base, flow and drums bring a unique blend to the album.

“Yea Yup” also features substantial production, crediting hip-hop veteran Harry Fraud, who produced tracks “Wrong” by the A$AP Mob and the album “Kissland” by The Weeknd. Its classical-style introduction, upbeat, clapping background and exciting bass properly set listeners up for Khalifa’s rap verses. Although the combination in the track is unexpected, the song is soothing and pleasant.

COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS

With many mainstream artists featuring up-and-coming artists, Khalifa follows the trend in his latest album. “Big Pride” samples underground artist Young Deji in its chorus, adding a unique element to the track. Deji instills a singsong tune similar to “Hope,” featured on Khalifa’s 2014 LP, allowing longtime fans to remember Khalifa’s old style.

Despite the unlikely collaboration with Bay Area-based R&B duo THEMXXNLIGHT, “G.O.A.T.,” the track presents high momentum throughout.

STALE LYRICISM

Khalifa’s classic flow defines his sound, but can become boring and bland with no sense of growth from his previous albums. One can only rap about weed, women, diamonds, golden bottles of expensive champagne and money so much. Lacking thoughtful lyricism, Khalifa fails to deliver in “Fly Times,” but it remains a decent work with barely any fresh characteristics. While new fans may enjoy the album, hardcore fans are better off returning to older Wiz Khalifa projects.

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About the Contributor

Adam Pigott, Staff Writer

Adam Pigott is a journalism major set to graduate in the spring of 2021. He enjoys training in martial arts and exploring Los Angeles as well as Orange County in his free time. Hey there! I am a junior journalism major with an emphasis in broadcasting from the beautiful state of Hawaii. I grew up on the Big Island in a small town called Honokaa. I participated in a lot of production-based work in my later years of high school, and I fell in love with telling stories from that point on. My love of stories originally came from my love of movies. I knew that I wanted to tell stories, but for the longest time, I did not know of the best path to take in order to do that. That’s when broadcasting came along. I love telling stories, and Biola has given me the path to do that. Telling stories through a video camera allows viewers to truly experience the story. Viewers get to experience the emotions, pace and mood because it's taking place right on their screen. I love being a part of bringing viewers that experience. I want to expand my horizons by not just becoming a good broadcaster, but also being a good writer. I am blessed to be a part of The Chimes, and I look forward to displaying my work.