Review Summary: Overall, O.N.I.F.C. is a satisfying album. Some will embrace this album and others will find Wiz Khalifa’s themes repetitive. If Khalifa consolidated O.N.I.F.C. to 10 or 11 songs, we would have an exceptional album on our hands.
Years before his success, Cameron Jibril Thomaz or Wiz Khalifa was accustomed to sitting in the economy class. He was only able to glance at the glamour of first class when an attendant momentarily opened the curtains. Whether he traveled on a plane, train, or ferry, Khalifa always had a burning desire to make it to first class and never look back.
Rolling Papers, released March 29th 2011, propelled Khalifa into mainstream success. Atlantic Records was in utter delight because they discovered their new weed smoking, flamboyantly dressed; I don’t give a *** about anything, hip-hop sensation.
O.N.I.F.C (Only Nigga In First Class), released December 4th, 2012 is the fourth studio album by Khalifa. O.N.I.F.C. proves that Khalifa has said goodbye to the economy class and is now receiving luxurious service and prestige. And trust that you will hear this theme repeated in all his tracks.
The tone of this album is established in “Intro”. The polished production and ambient feel will be reminiscent of your first college bong hit. Once the airy “Paperbond” starts Khalifa lets you know he has more weed, money, and fame then you; as if you didn’t know already.
Songs such as “Let It Go (Feat. Akon)” and “The Bluff (Feat. Camron)” retain the airy synthesizer production displayed in “Intro” and “Paperbond”. “Let It Go” is a great song, however Akon adds a 1990’s Mark Morrison feel that doesn’t fit well with Khalifa’s prestigious raps. “The Bluff” opens with Khalifa hitting a spliff and we are once again reminded that Khalifa “has so much”. It is refreshing to hear Camron’s flow but overall this song will remain satisfactory for many.
Once the song “Work Hard Play Hard” hits, the constant theme of glamour begins to dwindle and Khalifa reminds us why he is sitting in first class. His flow, rap lyricism, and unique metaphors during this song, will definitely make it a fan favorite.
O.N.I.F.C. also features notable collaborations. The songs that stick out are “It’s Nothin” (Feat. 2 Chainz), “Rise Above” (Feat. Pharrell, Tuki Carter, & Amber Rose), and “Remember You” (Feat. The Weeknd). "It’s Nothin”, is a track that will be welcomed by all weed smokers. The production is extremely bass-driven and is easily the most prominent aspect of this song. “Rise Above” is a very calm track where each rapper has a chance to impress their listener and “Remember You”, balances The Weeknd’s dreary style with Wiz Khalifa’s ambient flow.
In track 14 “No Limit”, Khalifa shows his fans that he doesn’t have emphysema yet. His lungs still have the capacity to spit a speedy flow and we are gracious for their efforts. Additionally, "Medicated" (Feat. Chevy Woods And Juicy J) has one of the most memorable beats on the album and is a perfect conclusion to O.N.I.F.C.
Overall, O.N.I.F.C. is a satisfying album. Some will embrace this album and others will find Wiz Khalifa’s themes repetitive. If Khalifa consolidated O.N.I.F.C. to 10 or 11 songs, we would have an exceptional album on our hands. Regardless, you must respect the man and give this album a listen. As a working individual, you should use this album as motivation. If you work hard and play hard, maybe one day you will be upgraded to first class and receive moist towels, ample legroom, and an extra bag of peanuts like Wiz Khalifa.
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