Review Summary: Missy Elliott's magnum opus, and a gem from the commercial rap era
During a time when commercial hip hop was frowned upon, and heavily criticized, Missy Elliott proved there could be originality in it. Not afraid to experiment with different genres, and have a unique personality, Missy's ear for beats helped the quality of her music as well. With the help of Timbaland (who was relatively unknown at the time), a fresh, innovative production style was heard by the world.
Missy's style was unique too, she had a melodic delivery, as well as her unorthodox rap style not yet heard by a female in hip hop, and hardly even heard by males in hip hop. Perhaps one of the most versatile female MC's of all time, it would make sense why she would team up with Timbaland, one of the most versatile hip hop producers of all time. Timbaland's production style, as proven on this album, is original, versatile, and above all, sounds great. From smooth R&B sounds, to head-nodding hip hop tracks, Timbaland proved himself to be one of the best, and most versatile hip hop producers.
Missy Elliott's melodic, sing-song delivery helped her songs sound better, and keeps the listener interested throughout the album. On top of being a talented rapper, Missy Elliott is a very talented singer as well. Missy Elliott had head-nodding hip hop tracks ("Izzy Izzy Ahh", "Gettaway"), great R&B tracks ("Why You Hurt Me", "Friendly Skies", "Best Friends"), and more sounds to keep you interested. There's enough diversity on this album to make you want to come back to it, and just general great music.
Supa Dupa Fly is a fantastic album, and Missy Elliott's magnum opus. From the production, to Missy's delivery, this album, as Busta Rhymes describes it in his outro, is an emotional roller coaster. From front to back, this album should keep you interested with its diversity, both in production and lyrical styles. One of the gems from the commercial rap era.
Ratings:
1. Busta's Intro (feat. Busta Rhymes): 4/5
2. Hit 'Em Wit Da Hee (feat. Lil' Kim and Mocha): 4/5
3. Sock it 2 Me (feat. Da Brat): 4/5
4. The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly): 4.5/5
5. Beep Me 911 (feat. 702 and Magoo): 4.5/5
6. They Don't Wanna F**k With Me (feat. Timbaland): 4.5/5
7. Pass Da Blunt: 3.5/5
8. Bite Our Style-Interlude
9. Friendly Skies (feat. Ginuwine): 5/5
10. Best Friends (feat. Aaliyah): 4.5/5
11. Don't Be Coming (In My Face): 4/5
12. Izzy Izzy Ahh: 4.5/5
13. Why You Hurt Me: 4.5/5
14. I'm Talkin': 4.5/5
15. Getaway (feat. Space and Nicole): 4/5
16. Busta's Outro (feat. Busta Rhymes)
17. Missy's Finale
Best songs:
Friendly Skies
Best Friends
The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)
Izzy Izzy Ahh
They Don't Wanna F**k With Me
Weakest song: Pass da Blunt
Production: 9.2/10
Lyrics: 8.4/10
Overall rating: 88/100
Grade: B+
