Hubbry Logo
Because the InternetBecause the InternetMain
Open search
Because the Internet
Community hub
Because the Internet
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Because the Internet
Because the Internet
Because the Internet
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Because the Internet
A man wearing a tropical-themed shirt stares at the viewer. After a few seconds, the animated image fuzzes out quickly, showing strong brush-like strokes. The image becomes blurred and eventually quickly turns back to its original image.
Album cover GIF
Studio album by
Childish Gambino
ReleasedDecember 10, 2013 (2013-12-10)
Recorded2012–2013
StudioThe Temple, Los Angeles, California
GenreHip hop
Length57:52
LabelGlassnote
Producer
Childish Gambino chronology
Royalty
(2012) 		Because the Internet
(2013) 		STN MTN / Kauai
(2014)
Singles from Because the Internet
  1. "3005"
    Released: October 22, 2013
  2. "Crawl"
    Released: February 7, 2014
  3. "Sweatpants"
    Released: June 9, 2014
  4. "Telegraph Ave."
    Released: August 19, 2014

Because the Internet is the second studio album by American rapper Donald Glover, under the stage name Childish Gambino. It was released on December 10, 2013, by Glassnote Records. The recording process began in 2012 and ended in October 2013. Recording primarily took place at a mansion owned by basketball player Chris Bosh, which Gambino rented. The album features guest appearances from Chance the Rapper, Problem, Jhené Aiko, and Azealia Banks, with production primarily handled by Gambino himself, Stefan Ponce, and Ludwig Göransson, among others.

Because the Internet was supported by four singles: "3005", "Crawl", "Sweatpants", and "Telegraph Ave.". Gambino also released a short film titled Clapping for the Wrong Reasons and a 72-page screenplay to go along with the album in promotion of it.

Because the Internet received generally positive reviews from critics. It also performed well commercially, debuting at number seven on the US Billboard 200 and number 12 on the Canadian Albums Chart. The album received a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. It was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in February 2016. As of November 2016, the album has sold 992,000 album-equivalent units in the United States.

Background

[edit]
Under his Childish Gambino name, Donald Glover was the primary songwriter, performer, and producer of the album.

In July 2013, Gambino signed on to create a music-themed show for FX titled Atlanta, a series which premiered on September 6, 2016, and which he stars in, writes, and executive produces. Consequently, he decided to reduce his work for NBC, and only appeared in five episodes of Community's 13-episode fifth season. His role was reduced in order to work more on his music career.[1][2][3][4]

On October 4, 2013, Gambino announced on Twitter that his second studio album was completed.[5] He further revealed details at Homecoming Week at Penn State on October 7, stating that "I got a new album coming out soon, so this is the last time we're gonna play a lot of this shit."[6] The same day, he premiered a new song titled "Yaphet Kotto".[7]

On October 8, 2013, Gambino released a teaser video for the album, which he announced as being titled Because the Internet and that it would be released in December 2013.[8] Gambino told MTV that singer Beck gave him the idea for the album title.[9] He explained the title, saying: "Because the internet I'm here, because of the internet we're all here. It's the language of earth. Everyone keeps saying by this or that year, Mandarin or Spanish will be the most dominant language, but the internet is already a language we are all connected to; even my dad can understand the meme format. But the thing is, there are no rules, which is also the awesome thing."[10]

After the release date announcement, Gambino stated he was upset since Glassnote Records wanted to push back its release to 2014, which he said was because "it's not a holiday record and I'm not a big artist".[11] He responded to this, saying: "If it wasn't gonna be released then, I was gonna release it myself. What's the point of waiting? I feel like that's the only time people would be able to listen to it. December is the perfect time. Albums made a really big impact on me when I was alone and everything was quiet, and I know that's when students go home, that's when everything is closed, so it's a good time to just listen to something and be yourself."[9] On October 21, he announced a release date of December 10, 2013, for the album.[12][13]

Recording and production

[edit]
Rapper Azealia Banks made an appearance on the album track "Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)".

On November 4, 2012, producer Ludwig Göransson said in an interview, he and Gambino were in his studio coming up with new ideas for Gambino's next album. Göransson said it was to be a bigger album than his debut, Camp, with more people involved.[14] Over the following months, Gambino disappeared from social media, remaining reclusive while recording material for the album.[15] The album was primarily recorded in Miami Heat player Chris Bosh's mansion in Los Angeles, which Gambino dubbed "The Temple". There, he kept strict rules, which included "no tweeting or instagramming", "no shoes", and "work begins at 10 am".[9][16] In October 2013, he revealed that he had collaborated with Kid Cudi on a song, but the song would not be featured on the album.[16][17] In October 2013, during a Toronto listening session, Gambino revealed Jhené Aiko as one of the album's guest appearances.[18] He also collaborated with American rappers Chance the Rapper and Azealia Banks on the album.[19]

Cover art

[edit]

The cover is an animated GIF of Gambino staring at the viewer, which quickly fuzzes out after a few seconds (with strong brush-like strokes blurring his features to the point where he is unrecognizable) as if it had jumped at the viewer, in a process similar to zooming in. The GIF format is a reference to the internet, which made it popular.[20] Certain physical versions of the album function with lenticular printing to mimic the animation effect.[21] The cover was shot by American photographer Autumn de Wilde.[22]

Promotion

[edit]

On January 11, 2012, Gambino announced he would be releasing a new mixtape soon.[23] The mixtape Royalty was released on July 4, 2012, to positive critical reception.[24][25][26] The mixtape featured guest appearances by Nipsey Hussle, Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, Danny Brown, Tina Fey, Chance the Rapper, Beck, Ghostface Killah and RZA, among others.[24][27]

On July 23, 2013, Gambino released a promotional single named "Centipede".[28] The song opens with Gambino singing a cappella before "giving way to a spacey beat built around a chunky piano riff" and Gambino's confident rap delivery.[29] The outro of "Centipede" samples a part from an online mini-documentary about and featuring Charles Hamilton, "Behind the Lava Lamp".[30] On August 15, 2013, Gambino released a short film, Clapping for the Wrong Reasons. In the film Gambino previews new music and it features cameo appearances by producer Flying Lotus, actor Danielle Fishel, porn star Abella Anderson, and fellow rappers Trinidad James and Chance the Rapper.[31][32]

On October 25, 2013, in an interview with Power 105, Gambino stated he wanted to have a "dope roll out" for the album, which he said would also include a film.[33] Later that week, he told XXL that the album would also come with a screenplay.[34] On December 6, 2013, Gambino released a 72-page screenplay designed to sync up with the album. It was revealed on the website becausetheinter.net.[35] The screenplay, which is light on dialogue and involves stage directions that are written out Internet-speak and emojis, was accompanied by short, silent clips from Clapping for the Wrong Reasons, and songs from the album were included to be played as the story unfolds. The central character, The Boy, lives in a mansion and spends his days tweeting at celebrities and posting videos to WorldStarHipHop. Everywhere The Boy goes, he sees the words "Roscoe's Wetsuit." Eventually, he's forced to sell drugs.[36] Gambino prefaces the screenplay with a notice indicating that Clapping for the Wrong Reasons is considered a prelude, intending it to be viewed before reading the screenplay.[35]

On January 7, 2014, Gambino used a video chat with Abella Anderson to announce The Deep Web tour. The tour featured 22 concerts and ran from February 27, through May 3, 2014.[37]

Singles

[edit]

On October 21, 2013, Gambino released "3005", the album's first official single.[38][39] The following day it was released for digital download on iTunes.[40] The introspective song was produced by Gambino himself, along with Stefan Ponce and Ludwig Göransson.[41] On November 15, 2013, the song's lyric video was premiered on Vevo.[42] The music video was released on December 6, 2013.[43]

On February 7, 2014, one of the album's promotional singles "Crawl", was serviced to urban contemporary radio in the United Kingdom as the album's second official single.[44]

On November 25, 2013, "Sweatpants" which features ad-libs from rapper Problem was leaked online, which Gambino responded unfavorably to.[45] Shortly after, it was made available to those who pre-order the album on iTunes, as the album's first promotional single.[46] The music video for "Sweatpants" was released on April 14, 2014, which concludes with a dream sequence for "Urn".[47] "Sweatpants" would later be serviced to urban contemporary radio in the UK as the album's third official single on June 9, 2014.[48]

On August 19, 2014, the song "Telegraph Ave.", was serviced to rhythmic contemporary radio in the United States as the album's fourth single.[49]

Critical reception

[edit]
Because the Internet ratings
Aggregate scores
SourceRating
AnyDecentMusic?5.5/10[50]
Metacritic64/100[51]
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStarStarStar[52]
The A.V. ClubB−[53]
Entertainment WeeklyB−[54]
The GuardianStarStarStar[55]
Los Angeles TimesStarStarHalf star[56]
Pitchfork5.8/10[57]
QStarStar[58]
Rolling StoneStarStarStarHalf star[59]
Spin2/10[60]
XXL4/5[61]

Because the Internet was met with generally positive reviews. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from professional publications, the album received an average score of 64, based on 26 reviews.[51] Aggregator AnyDecentMusic? gave it 5.5 out of 10, based on their assessment of the critical consensus.[50]

Writing for The Boston Globe, Franklin Soults said, "Love Donald Glover or hate him, this writer/actor/comedian/rapper unquestionably ranks among America's most accomplished performers. [...] The production is as rich as the raps, spanning pop, underground R&B, club music, and psychedelic experimentation. The project is further heightened by Glover's knowing irony, his gift for hooks, and his visionary theme. Without making it a burdensome concept to explain and belabor, the Internet figures prominently throughout the disc in ways empowering and emasculating."[62] Killian Fox, writing for The Observer, said, "Glover reflects on some unsettling phenomena of our internet-addled age, such as the 3D printing of guns – and his restless delivery is matched by jerky, off-kilter production. The results are intriguing, occasionally frustrating, rarely boring."[63] Jabbari Weekes of Exclaim! said, "Because the Internet is a vast improvement over his debut effort, showcasing an artist who has confidently found a way to coalesce his love for music and films into one hybrid effort."[64] Christian Lee of HipHopDX said, "He raps because, well, he can. Most of all, in his ambitious second album Because The Internet, he raps as if to pass the time. Anxious introverts may recognize what Childish Gambino does here, repeatedly: flit around, try to be sociable, but then flee. Childish Gambino still manages to mostly hold our attention, though, because he concerns himself instead with his own terms."[65] David Jeffries of AllMusic said, "Connecting with the album is nearly impossible, understanding it is difficult, and often enough, its inflated ego is irksome, but Because the Internet is too free and fascinating to be dragged down by these complaints, so if a Yeezus with more flash and fun is what's required, Gambino's got the good stuff."[52]

Perry Kostidakis of the FSView & Florida Flambeau wrote, "From a purely musical standpoint, Because the Internet finds itself in contention for best rap album of 2013. Produced almost solely by Gambino (with help from Community composer Ludwig Goransson), it seems as if BTI is the first rap album this year that is completely confident in what it is."[66] Lizzie Plaugic of CMJ stated in a mixed review, "Because The Internet is not easily dismissible, because it's so self-awarely annoying. It trips over its own feet hoping the cool kids will roll their eyes at it, because behind those eye rolls is a jealousy that Gambino can fall with such nonchalance. Even though Because The Internet is kind of strange and kind of a bummer, it does show Glover's range as a musician."[67] Craig Jenkins of Pitchfork stated, "With Gambino's wordplay ping-ponging from caustic wit to message board snark, the enduring strength of the album is its production. Gambino and Göransson handle the bulk of it here alongside usual suspect Stefan Ponce and alley oops from twin act Christian Rich and Flying Lotus associate Thundercat. Because the Internet's production team not only ensures the sounds are pretty, spacey, and jarring in all the right places, but they also effortlessly nail the album's Dark Side of the Moon/Wizard of Oz synchronicity gambit."[57]

Dom Sinacola of Slant Magazine said, "More than that, it furthers the general message of the whole album, which is that for all his posturing and charm, Glover may not have it in him to participate in the kind of bacchanalia required of his position as a young, burgeoning, multi-talented rap star. Halfway between throwaway wordplay and trenchant comment about fame, the lyric says a lot about where Glover's head is at: As a former sketch comedian, writer on 30 Rock, and star of the sitcom Community, he leans on his wit as his most formidable weapon."[68] Philip Cosores of Consequence stated, "Yes, the dedication that Glover has seemingly displayed in the project is admirable. But he just doesn't seem to get music on this album. Maybe it's because of his taste, or because he is trying too hard to stand out, or because of his hubris, or because he has lost touch with reality, or maybe it is because of the internet."[69] Phillip Mlynar of Spin said, "The only reaction that Because the Internet elicits is the uncontrollable urge to skip to the next song, in hopes that things couldn't possibly get any sloppier. But they do, beginning with the cod-wailing that blights "Crawl" and volleying with the psychedelic muzak of "The Worst Guys" (co-starring Chance the Rapper) and "Zealots of Stockholm (Free Information)," which sounds like Glover has inadvertently locked himself in his practice space and is attempting to muster up a loud enough mess so that some kindly passerby will hear his cries for help. As the album collapses into itself with the closing cut, "Life: The Biggest Troll (Andrew Auernheimer)," we're resigned to existence as a gloopy mess of random thoughts. "Where's the line between Donny G and Gambino?" the rapper muses, but it's unclear whether this is meant as a genuine identity crisis or an all-knowing middle finger to critics. Maybe the entire album is a meme itself, a grand existential joke critiquing the all-conquering rise of Internet culture by parodying its overwhelming randomness. Whatever it is, though, it's a bad rap record."[60]

Accolades

[edit]

It was named the tenth best album of 2013 by Complex. They commented saying, "Because The Internet is unlike any other rap album this year. Musically, it's as ambitious as something Kanye might do. [...] It only leaked last week, but it's some of the most engaging, rewarding music we've heard all year."[70] XXL ranked it at number 15 on their list of best albums of 2013. They elaborated saying, "One of the most creative albums of the year, actor/rapper Childish Gambino meshes both his talents together for a very innovate and impressive album. He ditches the goofy-comedic rap lyrics with introspective bars that tell a story about a boy who is trying to find himself in life. [...] The music itself is really polished and well-produced, showcasing his growth lyrically and musically as he frequently sings on records."[71]

The album was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 2015 Grammy Awards.[72]

Commercial performance

[edit]

Because the Internet debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200, with first-week sales of 96,000 copies in the United States.[73] This would be an 84% increase in first week sales in his home country, compared to his debut album Camp.[74] In its second week, the album dropped to number 25, selling 28,000 more copies.[75] In its third week, the album rose to number 20 selling 33,000 more copies in the United States.[76] In its fourth week, the album moved up to number 18 on the chart, selling 16,000 more copies in the United States.[77] Due to Record Store Day, the week ending April 20, 2014, the album peaked at number one on the US Top Vinyl LPs, selling 3,000 vinyl copies.[78] On February 18, 2016, Because the Internet was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for sales of over 500,000 copies.[79] As of November 2016, the album has sold 992,000 album-equivalent units in the United States, and on-demand audio and video streams that totaled 1.1 billion.[80]

Track listing

[edit]
Because the Internet track listing
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."The Library (Intro)"Donald GloverGlover0:04
2."I. Crawl"
3:29
3."II. Worldstar"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
4:04
4."Dial Up"GloverGlover0:44
5."I. The Worst Guys" (featuring Chance the Rapper)
  • Glover
  • Göransson
3:39
6."II. Shadows"
3:51
7."III. Telegraph Ave. ('Oakland' by Lloyd)"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Rochelle Jordan
  • Glover
  • Göransson
3:30
8."IV. Sweatpants" (featuring Problem)
  • Glover
  • Göransson
3:00
9."V. 3005"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Stefan Ponce
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Ponce
3:54
10."Playing Around Before the Party Starts"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
Göransson0:54
11."I. The Party"
1:31
12."II. No Exit"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
2:51
13."Death by Numbers"GloverGlover0:43
14."I. Flight of the Navigator"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Glover
  • Göransson
5:44
15."II. Zealots of Stockholm (Free Information)"
4:50
16."III. Urn"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Glover
  • Göransson
1:13
17."I. Pink Toes" (featuring Jhené Aiko)
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Ponce
3:27
18."II. Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)" (featuring Azealia Banks)
  • Glover
  • Göransson
4:42
19."III. Life: The Biggest Troll (Andrew Auernheimer)"
  • Glover
  • Göransson
  • Glover
  • Göransson
5:42
Total length:57:52

Notes

  • ^[a] signifies an additional producer
  • "3005" is not denoted with a numeral on streaming services.
  • Physical versions divide the album into seven acts: 1 (tracks 1-3), 2 (tracks 4-9), 3 (tracks 10-12), 4 (tracks 13-16), 5 (track 17), 6 (track 18) and 7 (track 19).
  • Early physical versions erroneously note Macklemore as a featured artist on "II. Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)".
  • "III. Life: The Biggest Troll (Andrew Auernheimer)" is noted as featuring Donald Glover on physical versions.

Personnel

[edit]

Credits adapted from the album's liner notes.[81]

  • Jhené Aiko – featured artist (track 17)
  • Erik Arvinder Orchestra – strings (track 19)
  • Chris Athens – mastering
  • Azealia Banks – featured artist (track 18)
  • Chance the Rapper – featured artist (track 5)
  • Childish Gambino – primary artist, creative director, executive producer; producer (tracks 1–9, 11–19)
  • Andrew Dawson – mixing
  • Autumn de Wilde – photography
  • Doc Allison – cello (track 2)
  • Jens Filipsson – alto sax (track 3)
  • Ludwig Göransson – guitar (track 5), producer (tracks 3, 5–12, 14–19)
  • Chris Hartz – drums (track 17)
  • Rochelle Jordan – background vocals (track 7)
  • Kai – additional vocals (track 2)
  • Kilo Kish – additional vocals (track 15)
  • Pop Levi – producer (track 11)
  • Lloyd – additional vocals (track 7)
  • Steve G. Lover – backing vocals (track 3)
  • Riley Mackin – engineer
  • Miguel – additional vocals (track 12)
  • Mystikal – background vocals (track 2)
  • Edvin Nahlin – fender rhodes (track 3)
  • Yesi Ortiz – additional vocals (track 7)
  • Stefan Ponce – producer (tracks 9, 17)
  • Problem – additional vocals (track 8)
  • Christian Rich – producer (track 2)
  • Ruben Rivera – engineer
  • Brian Roettinger – art direction
  • Sam Spiegel – additional production (track 15)
  • Swank – background vocals (track 3)
  • S-X – additional drum programming (track 5)
  • Thundercat – bass, background vocals (track 17); producer (track 6)
  • Fam Udeorji – creative director, executive producer

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Certifications for Because the Internet
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA)[93] Gold 35,000‡
Canada (Music Canada)[94] Platinum 80,000‡
Denmark (IFPI Danmark)[95] Gold 10,000‡
United Kingdom (BPI)[96] Gold 100,000‡
United States (RIAA)[79] Gold 500,000‡

‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Release history

[edit]
Release dates and formats for Because the Internet
Region Date Label(s) Format(s) Ref.
United States December 10, 2013
[97]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Because the Internet

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Because the Internet is the second studio album by American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor , released under his stage name Childish Gambino. Issued on December 10, 2013, by Glassnote Records, it serves as a concept project delving into themes of , fame, isolation, and the blurred lines between online personas and real life, complemented by a 72-page screenplay and the Clapping for the Wrong Reasons. The album comprises 19 tracks, blending hip-hop, R&B, and electronic elements, with production primarily handled by alongside contributors like Stefan Ponce, Christian Rich, and Thundercat. Notable singles include "3005", featuring , which explores themes of commitment amid digital distractions, and "", with guest appearances by Problem and . The screenplay, structured in four acts, follows a protagonist known as "The Boy" navigating social media's influence on relationships and self-perception, with the album's songs integrated as its soundtrack to enhance the narrative immersion. Guests such as , , , and Miguel appear across tracks, adding diverse vocal and stylistic layers to the project's exploration of modern alienation. Critically, Because the Internet received mixed to positive reviews, praised for its ambitious scope and Glover's evolving lyricism but critiqued for occasional reliance on gimmicky wordplay and the necessity of supplementary materials for full comprehension. It earned two Grammy Award nominations at the : Best Rap Album for the project overall and Best Rap Performance for "3005". Commercially, the album debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 96,000 album-equivalent units in its first week, and has since accumulated over 1.32 million units in the as of 2018. Certified by the RIAA in 2016, it marked a significant step in Gambino's musical evolution, bridging his comedic roots with deeper artistic experimentation.

Development

Background

Following the release of his debut studio album Camp in November 2011, , performing under the stage name Childish Gambino, began developing material for his second full-length project. Having signed with independent label Glassnote Records in September 2011, Glover aimed to build on the conceptual ambition of Camp while incorporating his multifaceted background in and production from shows like 30 Rock and Community. This period marked a shift toward a more experimental and interconnected artistic vision, moving beyond standalone music releases. The title Because the Internet emerged serendipitously during a conversation with musician , whom Glover was collaborating with at the time. When asked about interactions among rappers, Glover jokingly started his response with "Because the Internet...," leading to propose it as the album's name. Glover embraced the phrase as it encapsulated his emerging fascination with the internet's transformative role in daily life, communication, and , serving as the project's thematic core. This inspiration drew from observations of how online platforms amplify personal actions, foster disconnection despite connectivity, and blur lines between reality and digital representation. To fully explore these ideas, Glover conceived Because the Internet as a multimedia endeavor from its inception, integrating a 72-page screenplay as the narrative foundation. Written by Glover, the script centers on a protagonist called "The Boy," a young, wealthy heir navigating isolation, family dynamics, and existential malaise in a hyper-connected world. This storytelling framework, released alongside the album in December 2013, allowed Glover to weave the music into a broader cinematic experience, reflecting his goal of creating an honest, immersive exploration of modern identity rather than isolated tracks. The initial creative process unfolded in a rented mansion in Pacific Palisades, California, owned by NBA player , where Glover and his collaborators—including producers like —immersed themselves in an environment blending leisure, philosophical discussions, and experimentation. This setting, dubbed "The Temple" by the team, facilitated late-night sessions that shaped the album's eclectic production and introspective tone, emphasizing vulnerability and societal critique over commercial polish.

Recording and production

The recording of Because the Internet primarily occurred from 2012 to October 2013 at a rented luxury mansion in , owned by NBA player . Donald Glover, performing as Childish Gambino, transformed the property—dubbed "The Temple"—into a creative hub for four months, enforcing strict rules such as no activity, no shoes indoors, and sessions starting at 10 a.m. daily to foster focus and immersion. The space also served as a residence for collaborators and friends, who contributed feedback during late-night discussions, including readings of philosophy books, creating a communal atmosphere that Glover described as essential to the project's energy: "I only want to make albums this way from now on. Any other way, like going to the studio, feels really sad to me. It feels really lonely." Production was led by Glover and his longtime collaborator , who handled approximately 80% of the tracks and emphasized elevating the sound after being inspired by an early Glover demo for "Crawl," noting, "I hadn’t heard production like that in a while and I thought it was so fresh and so cool." Additional contributors included Stefan Ponce, Christian Rich, , Pop Levi, and Thundercat, with the latter providing bass on select songs. The process drew from influences like indie rap scenes and Glover's experiences with digital isolation during a Los Angeles winter, resulting in an experimental sonic palette that blended hip-hop with atmospheric and lo-fi elements. Göransson incorporated innovative, low-fi techniques to capture raw textures, such as recording vocals and effects directly on an iPhone. For "Flight of the Navigator," over half the initial vocals— including the melody for the first half—were captured via iPhone before processing in Ableton, with acoustic guitar chords pitch-shifted for an ethereal quality; Göransson explained, "Donald sang a melody into his iPhone, in fact all the vocals on the first half of the song are sung into his iPhone." Similarly, "Worldstar" featured its signature percussive tick derived from an iPhone recording of Ableton's metronome click, layered with effects to evoke urgency, while "Telegraph Ave." used iPhone-captured vocal melodies to achieve a nostalgic, indie-inspired vibe. These methods, applied toward the album's completion, underscored the project's emphasis on spontaneity and imperfection over polished studio norms.

Concept and multimedia

Screenplay

The screenplay for Because the Internet, written by under his stage name Childish Gambino, is a 72-page script that serves as the narrative backbone of the project's concept. Titled Because the Internet, it chronicles the life of a known only as "The Boy," a wealthy, isolated young man grappling with existential disconnection in a hyper-connected digital world. The script is notably sparse in traditional dialogue, instead relying on stage directions infused with , emojis, and references to convey action and emotion, mirroring the album's exploration of online culture's pervasive influence. Released as a free PDF online via the project's official website on December 6, 2013, and included digitally with the vinyl edition of the , the screenplay was first shared online via the project's official website in December 2013. The story unfolds non-linearly across several acts, beginning with The Boy's return from to his opulent , where he immediately retreats into digital escapism—tweeting at celebrities, uploading videos to sites like , and observing viral content. As the estranged son of a distant, affluent father (portrayed by in the accompanying ), The Boy hosts extravagant parties with his superficial friends, including a close companion played by , but feels profound alienation amid the excess. Recurring motifs, such as the enigmatic phrase "Roscoe's Wetsuit," symbolize his descent into and moral ambiguity, leading him to experiment with dealing as a means of asserting control. A pivotal sequence sees him traveling to Oakland to reconnect with an ex-girlfriend, only to face rejection, which propels him back to for a climactic confrontation involving a and his untimely death. Key supporting characters amplify The Boy's isolation: his father represents unattainable legacy and emotional absence, while friends like "The Stuntman" embody performative camaraderie in a fame-obsessed society. The script personifies "" as an intrusive force, blurring lines between virtual and real interactions, and incorporates silent, vignette-style scenes that align with the album's tracks—for instance, party sequences syncing to songs like "Crawl" and "." This integration transforms the screenplay into a scored , where album cues provide emotional underscoring, emphasizing themes of , the dehumanizing effects of wealth and technology, and the search for authenticity in a performative era. Glover's background in television writing, evident in the script's economical yet vivid prose, draws from influences like surrealist storytelling to critique modern disconnection without overt moralizing.

Short films and videos

The multimedia project Because the Internet extends beyond its audio components through a series of short films and videos that deepen its narrative exploration of isolation, identity, and digital life. The cornerstone is Clapping for the Wrong Reasons, a surreal directed by and released in August 2013 as a teaser for the album. An initial 50-second "Internet version" depicts fragmented scenes at a enigmatic location called "The Temple," featuring recurring motifs like a ringing phone, basketball dribbling, and awkward social interactions that underscore themes of disconnection and performance. This was followed two weeks later by the 24-minute , which presents a looping, dreamlike starring as "The Boy"—the central character from the accompanying —and cameos from artists like and . The extended version amplifies the album's conceptual framework, blending dialogue, symbolism, and ambient visuals to mirror the screenplay's episodic structure, and was designed to play continuously online for immersive viewing. In January 2014, shortly after the album's release, Glover wrote and directed Chicken and Futility, a 3-minute comedic short featuring himself alongside playing "Steve" and "Swank" in a stoner about , moths, and existential absurdities while gaming on . This slice-of-life vignette, infused with humor and introspection, serves as an extension of the project's and tonal universe, reflecting Glover's interest in mundane yet profound human moments. Promotional videos further enrich the visual ecosystem. Murai's October 2013 teaser for the track "" is a brief, haunting underwater sequence showing Glover's body floating motionless in a pool, evoking themes of detachment and foreshadowing key events. Music videos for singles integrate seamlessly: the December 2013 clip for "3005," also directed by Murai, portrays Gambino isolated in a room with a looming monster, using time-lapse and imagery to symbolize entrapment and fleeting relationships. Similarly, the "" video (January 2014), directed by , employs fast-paced, chaotic editing and celebrity cameos to capture the album's satirical take on fame and excess. These elements collectively form a transmedia , encouraging viewers to connect the visuals with the album's tracks and script for a fuller experience.

Music and artwork

Musical style and themes

Because the Internet represents a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and experimental electronic music, characterized by lush, layered soundscapes and cinematic production techniques. , performing as Childish Gambino, collaborated with producers , Stefan Ponce, Christian Rich, and Thundercat to create an album that incorporates blippy trap beats, psychedelic elements, and ambient found-sound sequences. The production draws inspiration from film scores and artists like , aiming for an emotional and narrative depth that evokes a "movie you can dance to." The album's style shifts dynamically across tracks, blending loose-limbed rap flows with dark, synth-based backdrops and occasional R&B showcases. For instance, "II. Worldstar" transitions from trap rhythms to psychedelic , while "III. Telegraph Ave. ('Oakland' by Lloyd)" highlights Glover's in a soulful, extended R&B format. Influences from contemporaries like , Drake, and are evident in the internal conflicts and observational lyrics, though Glover crafts a distinct voice through his background, emphasizing performative and humorous elements. Thematically, Because the Internet explores the impact of and on identity, , and modern alienation, framed through the of "the ," a character who trolls while grappling with personal disconnection. Glover intended the album as a "scripted" piece reflecting honest experiences of digital-age partying, , and existential dread, as seen in tracks like "3005," which juxtaposes upbeat hip-hop with fears of isolation. Songs such as "" balance alpha-boasting with , critiquing perceptions of wealth and villainy in the era. This interplay of style and themes creates a cohesive multimedia statement, where the music's experimental shifts mirror the screenplay's descent into chaos, underscoring themes of performative selves versus offline realities. The album's dark, synth-driven atmosphere amplifies its focus on catharsis and transparency, distinguishing it as an ambitious hip-hop narrative akin to works by Kendrick Lamar, though with a more playful, less rigorous edge.

Cover art

The cover art for Because the Internet consists of a stark, close-up portrait of staring contemplatively to the side, his eyes appearing bloodshot and weary against a plain white background, with the album title rendered in small, lowercase sans-serif lettering beneath the image. The photograph was captured by veteran music photographer , whose portrait work has included artists such as , , and . Art direction was provided by graphic designer Brian Roettinger, in collaboration with Glover, resulting in a minimalist aesthetic that underscores the album's introspective themes of isolation and digital existence. To align with the project's commentary on , the artwork was first unveiled as an animated , in which Glover's face briefly distorts before snapping back to its original form, evoking the fluidity and impermanence of media. This dynamic presentation was later adapted into a static image for physical releases and standard digital formats.

Release and promotion

Singles

The from Because the Internet, "V. 3005", was released digitally on October 22, 2013. Produced by Childish Gambino and , the track features a minimalist electronic beat and lyrics exploring themes of isolation and digital disconnection. It debuted at number 17 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and eventually peaked at number 11 there, while reaching number 64 on the Hot 100. The song's , directed by and released on December 6, 2013, depicts Gambino in surreal, introspective scenarios, aligning with the album's multimedia narrative. The second single, "I. Crawl", followed on February 7, 2014. Co-produced by Gambino and Christian Rich, it blends trap influences with atmospheric synths and addresses vulnerability in relationships. The track peaked at number 86 on the upon its chart entry in December 2013, driven by album buzz. Its performance video, premiered during a live appearance, emphasized the song's raw energy without a traditional music video release. "Sweatpants", the third single, arrived on June 9, 2014, with production by Gambino and Göransson. Featuring guest verses from Problem, the song critiques fame and materialism over a bouncy, bass-heavy . It reached number 35 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and number 24 on the chart. The accompanying , directed by and released on April 14, 2014, adopts a high-octane, action-film style with Gambino evading metaphorical pursuers. "III. Telegraph Ave. ('Oakland' by Lloyd)", released as a promotional single on August 19, 2014, features background vocals from Rochelle Jordan and samples a fictional radio hit within the album's storyline. Produced by Gambino, it evokes nostalgic R&B vibes while tying into the project's screenplay elements. The music video, directed by and released on October 10, 2014, stars and portrays a dreamlike romance ending in , released via .

Marketing and rollout

The rollout of Because the Internet emphasized a transmedia approach, integrating digital interactivity, personal , and fan engagement to mirror the album's exploration of internet-driven isolation and connectivity. , as Childish Gambino, directed much of the campaign himself, focusing on creating immersive experiences rather than traditional advertising. Pre-release promotion kicked off in late 2013 with confessional posts from Glover, where he shared raw thoughts on depression, , and mortality, drawing fans into the project's emotional core. These posts, combined with interviews touching on similar themes, built anticipation by humanizing the artist and tying into the album's . Glover also hosted impromptu listening parties in and New York, announced spontaneously via to around 100 fans each, allowing intimate previews of the full album in casual settings like house parties. He described these events as efforts to "create moments people can hold on to," prioritizing shared experiences over conventional press. Central to the campaign was the free online release of a 72-page , structured in four acts, which provided the album's storyline framework and encouraged fans to engage with it as a companion piece. This was supplemented by the 22-minute Clapping for the Wrong Reasons, directed by Glover and released as a prelude on , introducing the protagonist "The Boy" and visual motifs like "Roscoe's " that recurred in promotional . platforms including , , , and amplified these elements through teasers, lyric videos, and behind-the-scenes clips, with the album's cover notably formatted as a looping to evoke digital . Physical touchpoints included an interactive installation at the opening of Rough Trade's NYC store, where fans could explore album-related artifacts. Live performances, such as Gambino's set at the festival in on October 26, , further teased tracks and reinforced the campaign's experiential focus. The culminated in the album's December 10, , release via Glassnote Records, transforming a standard drop into a cohesive that demanded active audience participation.

Commercial performance

Chart positions

Because the Internet debuted at number 7 on the US chart in December 2013, selling 93,580 copies in its first week and marking Childish Gambino's highest-charting album at the time. Internationally, it achieved moderate success, peaking at number 12 on the Canadian Albums Chart upon release and entering several other national charts.
Chart (2013–2014)Peak position
Australian Albums (ARIA)37
Canadian Albums (Billboard)12
US 7
UK R&B Albums (OCC)6

Sales and certifications

Because the Internet debuted at number seven on the US chart, selling 93,580 copies in its first week. As of May 2018, the album had accumulated 1.32 million album-equivalent units in the United States. In the United States, the album was certified gold by the (RIAA) on February 18, 2016, denoting 500,000 album-equivalent units. The album has received certifications in several other countries, reflecting its global commercial performance.
CountryCertificationUnits SoldDate
Australia (ARIA)Gold35,0002019
Canada ()Platinum80,0002019
Denmark (IFPI Danmark)Gold10,000May 18, 2021
United Kingdom (BPI)Gold100,000December 3, 2021
(RIAA)Gold500,000February 18, 2016

Reception and legacy

Critical reception

Because the Internet received generally favorable reviews from music critics, though opinions were divided on its ambitious concept and lyrical depth. On aggregate review site , the album holds a score of 64 out of 100 based on 26 reviews, indicating "generally favorable reviews" with 15 positive, 9 mixed, and 2 negative assessments. Critics praised Donald Glover's (performing as Childish Gambino) improved technique and the album's innovative production, while some faulted its disjointed structure and reliance on supplementary materials like the accompanying for full comprehension. Pitchfork's Craig Jenkins awarded the album 5.8 out of 10, commending Glover's "radically improved" mic skills and "formidable" delivery, as well as the spacey, jarring production from collaborators like . However, he criticized the lyrics as a "minefield of wacka-wacka punchlines" and overly reliant on internet-age puns that often fell flat, noting the album's expansive attempt to explore social media's impact felt nobly ambitious but ultimately disjointed without engaging the full concept. The Guardian's Killian Fox described the record as "intriguing, occasionally frustrating, rarely boring," highlighting its blend of dark, abrasive hip-hop with oddball humor and reflections on unsettling phenomena, such as 3D-printed guns. Fox appreciated the restless, off-kilter production but noted its jerky style and Glover's Frank Ocean-esque delivery might alienate listeners seeking more conventional flows. In a more scathing take, Spin gave the album 2 out of 10, calling it "sloppy" and "erratic," with 19 tracks that felt like unconnected fragments akin to "erratic ideas... scrawled on unconnected Post-it notes." Reviewer Brandon Soderberg acknowledged Glover's technical ability but lambasted the dull bars, chaotic genre-mixing production, and overall lack of coherence, suggesting it elicited only an urge to skip tracks. VICE's Ian Cohen offered a positive defense, hailing it as a "good fucking record" with gripping production that fused the smoothness of Frank Ocean's and the bombast of Kanye West's . Cohen praised Glover's enhanced flow and singing, framing the as a bold challenge to perceptions of culture's effects on fame and identity, while attributing some backlash to Glover's "uncool" persona in hip-hop circles. Slant Magazine's Dom Sinacola rated it 2 out of 5 stars, viewing the album as "poised like an excuse" for Glover's inconsistencies, with its ambitions undermining the music's sincerity and cohesion. Despite isolated strong moments, he argued it prioritized vague conceptual gestures over substantive songwriting. Overall, reviewers recognized Because the Internet's creative risks in tying hip-hop to digital-age , though its execution divided audiences between those who valued its innovation and those who found it pretentious or underdeveloped.

Accolades and influence

Upon its release, Because the Internet earned Childish Gambino his first Grammy Award nominations at the in 2015, including Best Rap Album for the project itself and Best Rap Performance for the single "3005". The album was also certified gold by the (RIAA) on February 18, 2016, denoting 500,000 equivalent units sold or streamed in the United States. The album's legacy lies in its innovative approach as a concept record exploring the alienation and absurdity of internet-driven life, blending hip-hop with electronic and elements to digital culture's superficiality. Accompanied by a 72-page and the short film Clapping for the Wrong Reasons, it exemplified a rollout that anticipated the genre's shift toward immersive, narrative-driven experiences, influencing artists to integrate visual and literary components into album releases. Critics have praised its refinement of Gambino's and production, marking a departure from earlier "frat-rap" tropes toward more introspective and experimental hip-hop that solidified his reputation as a versatile innovator. In the broader hip-hop landscape, Because the Internet captured a transitional era of genre evolution, bridging traditional rap with alternative sounds and contributing to the mainstream acceptance of eclectic, internet-savvy artists. Its thematic depth on fame, isolation, and online existence has endured as a prescient commentary, earning retrospective acclaim as a "millennial masterpiece" and a pivotal work in Gambino's discography that paved the way for his later genre explorations.

Credits

Track listing

All tracks are written by Donald Glover, with additional songwriting and production credits varying per track as noted in official releases. The standard edition of Because the Internet contains 19 tracks, blending hip-hop, R&B, and electronic elements, with several interludes and skits contributing to its cinematic structure inspired by a accompanying .
No.TitleLength
1."The Library (Intro)"0:04
2."I. Crawl"3:29
3."II. Worldstar"4:04
4."Dial Up"0:44
5."I. The Worst Guys" (featuring )3:39
6."II. Shadows"3:51
7."III. Telegraph Ave. ("Oakland" by Lloyd)"3:30
8."IV. Sweatpants"3:00
9."V. 3005"3:54
10."Playing Around Before the Party Starts"0:54
11."I. The Party"1:31
12."II. No Exit"2:51
13."Death by Numbers"0:43
14."I. "5:44
15."II. Zealots of (Free Information)"4:50
16."III. Urn"1:13
17."I. Pink Toes" (featuring )3:27
18."II. Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)" (featuring )4:42
19."III. Life: The Biggest Troll (Andrew Auernheimer)"5:42
Total length: 58:02.

Personnel

Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) served as the lead artist, providing vocals across all tracks, as well as acting as , , and primary on several songs including "The Library (Intro)," "Dial Up," and "Death By Numbers." contributed as co-producer on the majority of tracks, such as "II. Worldstar," "I. The Worst Guys," "II. ," "III. Telegraph Ave. ("Oakland" by Lloyd)," "IV. Sweatpants," "V. 3005," "Playing Around Before The Party Starts," "I. The Party," "II. ," "I. ," "II. Zealots Of Stockholm [Free Information]," "III. Urn," ": The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)," and ": The Biggest Troll [Andrew Auernheimer]." Additional production came from Christian Rich on "I. Crawl," Sam on "II. Zealots Of Stockholm [Free Information]," Stefan Ponce on "V. 3005" and "I. Pink Toes," Thundercat on "II. ," Pop Levi on "I. The Party." Featured performers include on "I. The Worst Guys," Problem (Jason Martin) on "IV. Sweatpants," on "I. Pink Toes," Lloyd on "III. Telegraph Ave. ("Oakland" by Lloyd)," and on "Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)." Additional vocalists featured Mystikal on backing vocals for "I. Crawl," Kai on "I. Crawl," Steve G. Lover on "II. Worldstar," Swank on "II. Worldstar," Rochelle Jordan on backing vocals for "III. Telegraph Ave. ("Oakland" by Lloyd)," Yesi Ortiz on "III. Telegraph Ave. ("Oakland" by Lloyd)," on "II. Zealots Of Stockholm [Free Information]," Miguel on "II. No Exit," and Thundercat on backing vocals for "I. Pink Toes." Instrumentation highlights include Jens Filipsson on for "II. Worldstar," Edvin Nahlin on Fender Rhodes keyboards for "II. Worldstar," on guitar for "I. The Worst Guys," Thundercat on bass for "I. Pink Toes," Chris Hartz on drums for "I. Pink Toes," Stefan Ponce on additional drum programming for "I. Crawl" and DJ scratches for "I. Pink Toes," and on additional drum programming for "I. The Worst Guys." Rutherford "Doc" Allison provided on "The Library (Intro)." Other key roles encompassed Fam Udeorji as A&R, , creative director, and management; Brian Roettinger as art direction and creative director; Jbeau Lewis as booking agent; as mastering engineer; Autumn DeWilde as ; and legal representation was handled by Peter Lewit of Davis Shapiro Lewit & Hayes, with business management by Altman, Greenfield & Selvaggi LLP.

References

  1. https://grammy.com/artists/childish-gambino/18365
  2. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/18817-childish-gambino-because-the-internet/
  3. https://genius.com/Childish-gambino-because-the-internet-screenplay-part-1-annotated
  4. https://genius.com/albums/Childish-gambino/Because-the-internet
  5. https://www.billboard.com/pro/childish-gambino-this-is-america-sales-awaken-my-love-because-the-internet/
  6. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/childish-gambino-signs-with-glassnote-records-467589/
  7. https://entertainment.time.com/2013/12/05/a-conversation-with-childish-gambino-nostalgia-bitcoins-and-advice-from-tina-fey/
  8. https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/childish-gambino-talks-because-the-internet-album-staying-honest-5812342/
  9. https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/childish-gambino-because-the-internet-chris-bosh-mansion-recording-donald-glover-itunes-preview/1jx6y3wiysxkb1kgpc37xpfjqd
  10. https://www.pastemagazine.com/music/childish-gambino/childish-gambino-because-the-internet-10th-anniversary
  11. https://hiphopdx.com/news/ludwig-goransson-explains-production-on-childish-gambinos-because-the-internet/
  12. https://music.usc.edu/ludwig-goransson-shares-experimental-recording-techniques-from-work-with-childish-gambino/
  13. https://genius.com/albums/Donald-glover/Because-the-internet-screenplay
  14. https://www.complex.com/music/a/kyle-kramer/childish-gambino-because-the-internet-screenplay
  15. https://www.revolt.tv/article/2018-12-10/94833/how-because-the-internet-marked-a-turn-in-childish-gambinos-narrative
  16. https://dissectpodcast.com/2020/09/07/e1-bti-visual-guide/
  17. https://www.fastcompany.com/3024898/donald-glover-makes-you-ponder-chicken-and-futility-with-his-new-short-film
  18. https://consequence.net/2014/01/watch-childish-gambinos-new-stoner-film-chicken-and-futility/
  19. https://www.promonews.tv/videos/2013/10/22/childish-gambino-because-internet-hiro-murai/22461
  20. https://imvdb.com/video/childish-gambino/3005
  21. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/because-the-internet-112794/
  22. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/dec/05/childish-gambino-because-internet-review
  23. https://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/23/arts/television/donald-glover-as-childish-gambino.html
  24. https://www.stereogum.com/2244868/childish-gambino-because-the-internet-turns-10/reviews/the-anniversary/
  25. https://www.discogs.com/master/629407-Childish-Gambino-Because-The-Internet
  26. https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/16069-childish-gambino-reveals-cover-art-for-because-the-internet-news
  27. https://rickeysmileymorningshow.com/1362842/childish-gambino-releases-single-3005-from-new-album/
  28. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/grammys-2015-best-rap-song-and-best-rap-album-nominees-6422334/
  29. http://musicchartsarchive.com/artists/childish-gambino
  30. https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/childish-gambino-songs-best-hits-list-7957839/
  31. https://www.billboard.com/photos/actors-billboard-hot-100-hit-songs-1235374759/
  32. https://www.musicvf.com/Childish%2BGambino.songs
  33. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7119060/
  34. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5047720/
  35. https://www.complex.com/music/a/tanya-mok/childish-gambino-toronto-listening
  36. https://dailyillini.com/buzz-stories/music/2023/12/10/column-because-the-internet/
  37. https://kssunews.wordpress.com/2013/12/10/childish-gambino-changes-things-up-with-because-the-internet/
  38. https://australian-charts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Childish+Gambino&titel=Because+The+Internet&cat=a
  39. https://www.billboard.com/charts/canadian-albums/2013-12-28/
  40. https://www.billboard.com/pro/beyonce-tops-billboard-200-r-kelly-and-childish-gambino-debut-in-top-10/
  41. https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/childish-gambino-because-the-internet/
  42. https://www.xxlmag.com/childish-gambino-breaks-into-top-10-with-because-the-internet-in-this-weeks-album-sales-12-18-2013/
  43. https://headlineplanet.com/home/2016/03/03/childish-gambinos-because-the-internet-earns-gold-certification-in-us/
  44. https://bestsellingalbums.org/album/8455
  45. https://www.metacritic.com/music/because-the-internet/childish-gambino/critic-reviews
  46. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/dec/08/childish-gambino-because-the-internet-review
  47. https://www.spin.com/2013/12/childish-gambino-because-the-internet-worst-new-music/
  48. https://www.vice.com/en/article/childish-gambinos-because-the-internet-review-donald-glover/
  49. https://www.slantmagazine.com/music/childish-gambino-because-the-internet/
  50. https://www.grammy.com/artists/childish-gambino/18365
  51. https://glidemagazine.com/298101/10-years-later-childish-gambino-drops-theatrical-hip-hop-on-complex-because-the-internet/
  52. https://music.apple.com/us/album/because-the-internet/1771709429
  53. https://www.discogs.com/release/5595031-Childish-Gambino-Because-The-Internet
  54. https://www.discogs.com/release/8961124-Childish-Gambino-Because-The-Internet
  55. https://www.discogs.com/release/5513938-Childish-Gambino-Because-The-Internet
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.