New year, new Cudi.
On December 11th, 2020, multifaceted Cleveland-native rapper Scott Mescudi, better known as Kid Cudi, released the long-awaited Man on the Moon III: The Chosen. Kid Cudi released the first two albums in the beloved trilogy, Man on the Moon: The End of the Day in 2009 and Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager in 2010, putting 10 years between the second and third installments.
All I can say is that The Chosen is beyond worth the wait. It’s dynamic and current while still serving up the deep and psychedelic vibes we all know and love. All of these albums deserve recognition, so my first Threefer of 2021 showcases my favorite song from each installment of Man on the Moon.
Man on the Moon: “Soundtrack 2 My Life”
For anyone that’s ever struggled emotionally, monetarily or otherwise (so, all of us), “Soundtrack 2 My Life” is a timeless anthem. Kid Cudi has never been afraid to be transparent about his struggles with mental illness, fame and their intersections. I love an artist who consistently reminds fans that they’re not alone in this world.
Man on the Moon II: “The Mood”
Though “The Mood” is clearly about the enticing mix of illicit substances and certain sexual encounters, to me it represents the universal feeling of getting lost in something you love. When I’m doing something I’m truly passionate about, be it dancing, painting, or cooking, no words are necessary to convey my love for it. My mood for 2021? Giving my passions the attention they deserve.
Man on the Moon III: “Tequila Shots”
This is my favorite track from Man on the Moon III, and it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite Cudi jams overall. “Tequila Shots” serves to remind us that healing from struggle and trauma is a continuous effort. Sometimes, we will slip back into old ways, and that’s okay. We’re all fighting internal and external wars, and we all deserve a shot every once in a while.
