Hubbry Logo
Neon IconNeon IconMain
Open search
Neon Icon
Community hub
Neon Icon
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Neon Icon
Neon Icon
Neon Icon
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia
Neon Icon
Studio album by
Riff Raff
ReleasedJune 24, 2014
Recorded2012–2014
GenreHip hop
Length47:28
LabelMad Decent/300
Producer
Riff Raff chronology
¡Three Loco!
(2012) 		Neon Icon
(2014) 		Peach Panther
(2016)
Singles from Neon Icon
  1. "How to Be the Man"
    Released: November 26, 2013
  2. "Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz"
    Released: June 10, 2014

Neon Icon is the debut studio album by American rapper Riff Raff. It was released on June 24, 2014, by Mad Decent. The album, which features Childish Gambino, Mac Miller, Paul Wall, Amber Coffman, Mike Posner, and Slim Thug, was produced by DJA, Larry Fisherman, DJ Mustard, Raf Riley, Harry Fraud, and executive producer Diplo. Neon Icon was supported by singles "How to Be the Man" and "Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz".

Background

[edit]

Following the release of his mixtape Hologram Panda with a record producer Dame Grease, Riff Raff told MTV that his upcoming Mad Decent's studio album would be titled as Riff Raff, The Neon Icon, which shortens into Neon Icon.[1] In August 2013, in an interview with XXL, Riff Raff explained the album's title saying, "It's like a whole new world that's just all me. From going from nothing to becoming this shining star...so I mean, yeah, Neon Icon is just neon everything. It can't be stopped."[2] He also explained the album's diversity to XXL saying, "People think it's gonna be all pretty much just hip hop music, trap music, whatever. I'm gonna have some country songs on there, some rock songs and everything like that. And I'm fading more towards that way, so it's gonna put people in a position where they can't even compare me to nobody."[2]

Recording and production

[edit]

On February 12, 2013, Riff Raff took to Twitter to reveal the collaborations with rappers such as Drake and A$AP Rocky, set to appear in his upcoming second studio album Neon Icon, uploading single photos to Instagram with both rappers respectively.[3] On March 10, 2013, Riff Raff announced that the album would be feature Wiz Khalifa, Future, Mac Miller, YG and Snoop Dogg, among others.[4][5] On the following year, he announced on his Twitter, as well as most of his multiple interviews with the other artists that would be appearing on his debut album; including Action Bronson, Asher Roth, Bun B, Childish Gambino, Fitz and the Tantrums, Juicy J, Mike Posner, Paul Wall, 2 Chainz and Skylar Grey, among others.[4][6][7][8][9][10][11][12] It was also announced that his debut album would feature the production provided by Lex Luger, Larry Fisherman, DJ Mustard, TrapZillas and Skrillex; as well as Diplo, who is also executive producing the LP.[12][13]

In November 2013, Riff Raff told Entertainment Weekly that he had recorded over 100 songs during the album's recording process.[14] Following working with Clinton Sparks on his song "Stay With You Tonight", the two completed a song titled "A Spike Lee Joint" for Neon Icon.[15] He also stated that Amber Coffman of Dirty Projectors would appear on the album.[16] The final track listing revealed that the album would feature previously announced collaborations including Mac Miller, Childish Gambino, Paul Wall, Mike Posner and Amber Coffman, as well as Slim Thug.[17] The track "Versace Python" was meant to feature a verse from Wiz Khalifa. However, Atlantic Records refused to clear the vocals in a timely manner, which resulted in it being cut from the album version, although the alternate version was released by the label in the weeks preceding the album's release.[18]

Release and promotion

[edit]

On June 16, 2013, Riff Raff announced that Neon Icon would be released in September 2013.[19] On August 12, 2013, he told The Source that the album would be released in mid-October 2013.[20] However, during the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards he told XXL that the album would be released on September 24, 2013, the same day as Drake's Nothing Was the Same album.[21] However, in September, Riff Raff implied that the album would be released in October 2013.[22][23] On October 3, 2013, he announced on his Twitter account that the album would be released on January 28, 2014, one day before his 32nd birthday.[24] However, on January 26, 2014, Riff Raff confirmed that the album had been pushed back to an unknown date and urged his fans to ask Diplo on Twitter when the album would be released.[25][26] Then on February 24, 2014, Riff Raff announced that the album would be released during April 2014.[27] A release date of April 29, 2014 was confirmed the following month.[16] On April 28, 2014, Diplo tweeted that the album would be released during June 2014.[28]

Starting on July 24, 2013, through September 2, 2013, Riff Raff toured North America on the Neon Icon Summer Tour.[29] He would extend the tour from September 28 to October 26, 2013.[30] He then followed that with the Birth of an Icon tour which continued through the end of 2013.[6] In September 2013, he was featured on the cover of both the LA Weekly and Houston Press leading up to the album's release.[31][32] He told Complex in August 2013 that he would shoot a music video for every song on the album.[33] On October 30, 2013, Riff Raff teamed up with MySpace to release a commercial in promotion of the album as well as its next single "How to Be the Man"; a behind-the-scenes look at the filming of the commercial was also posted on Riff Raff's official MySpace page.[34]

In November 2013, Riff Raff told Rolling Stone in an interview that leading up to the album's release he would release various "left-over" tracks from the album's recording sessions[35] These notably included the Boi-1da-produced "Real Boyz", featuring rappers OJ da Juiceman and Cap 1, as well as "Suckas Askin' Questions" with Lil Debbie and "Shoulda Won a Grammy" with Action Bronson.[36] In March 2014, prior to the album's release, Rolling Stone included the album on their list of "27 Must-Hear Albums of 2014".[37] On May 20, 2014, Riff Raff announced through his Twitter that after much delay, Neon Icon was scheduled for a June 24, 2014 release date.[38] On June 30, 2014, Riff Raff released the official remix to "2 Girls 1 Pipe" featuring Frankie Palmeri of Emmure.[39] On August 20, 2015, Riff Raff released a remix of the song "Wetter Than Tsunami", featuring Danny Brown along with a music video.[40]

Singles

[edit]

On June 25, 2013, he released a single titled "Dolce & Gabbana" , produced by DJ Carnage as the first single from Neon Icon. However, two days later he announced that the song would not be included on the album.[41][42][43] The music video for "Dolce & Gabbana" was released on September 17, 2013.[42] On November 26, 2013, he released the first official single for Neon Icon titled "How To Be the Man" and produced by DJ Mustard.[44] The music video for "How to Be the Man" was released on May 20, 2014.[45] On June 5, 2014, the music video was released for "How to Be the Man" (Remix).[46] On June 27, 2014, the music video was released for "Introducing the Icon".[47] The album's second single "Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz" was released on June 10, 2014.[48]

Critical reception

[edit]
Professional ratings
Aggregate scores
SourceRating
Metacritic61/100[49]
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStarStarStar[50]
Consequence of SoundC+[51]
HipHopDXStar[52]
NowStarStarStar[53]
Pitchfork5.4/10[54]
PopMatters7/10[55]
Rolling StoneStar[56]
Spin8/10[57]
XXL3/5 (L)[58]
Vibe(positive)[59]

Neon Icon was met with mixed reviews from music critics. On Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from mainstream critics, the album received an average score of 61, based on 14 reviews, which indicates "generally favorable reviews".[49] David Jeffries of AllMusic gave the album four out of five stars, saying "the ever-shifting music, the endless supply of quotables, and the wonderful mashing of indie beats, oddball lyrics, ICP theatrics, and stadium-party rap hooks beats up on the "talentless" argument hard."[50] Jon Caramanica of The New York Times said, "At his best, he's a master of psychedelic free association, with non sequitur lyrics full of 10-point words that are rapped as if he had come up with the idea for the line just after it began, then rushed to finish it on beat [...] Indeed, Neon Icon is a fine hip-hop album from someone who seemed as if he'd make anything but. It's dispiriting to hear Riff Raff contort himself into the shape of a mediocre pop-rap song like “Maybe You Love Me” or to be scraped clean of all his idiosyncrasy on “Time,” an otherwise amusing country-rap tune."[60] Adam Narkiewicz of The Quietus stated, "RiFF RaFF is a one off, and Neon Icon is that rare product of a rapper in the modern world – an album that perfectly encompasses everything they became loved for on their come up, amplified to the glorious maximum, aiming confidently into the future."[61]

Lizzie Plaugic of CMJ said, "What prevents Neon Icon from completely imploding under the weight of its own surreality is the fact that, when he wants to, Riff Raff really can rap, and he has a way of making words do what he wants. [...] Neon Icon is the weight the internet has left us with. It's a much-delayed product of Tumblr art, Big Brother reality TV, corporate worship and urban fetishism. Or, maybe it's pushing against these things. I dunno, whatever, at least it's pretty fun."[62] Jordan Sowumi writing for Now said, "His freestyle flow, along with a propensity for hooks that occasionally exude longing and pathos, have always been Riff Raff's biggest strengths, and they turn up here, too, especially on poignant "Versace Python" and riotously funny 'Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz'."[53] Pat Levy of Consequence of Sound stated, "While Neon Icon likely won't be the push that RiFF needs into the public consciousness, it certainly won't hurt his reputation."[51] Austin Reed of Pretty Much Amazing said, "I spent an embarrassing amount of time laugh-dancing throughout the runs I made through Neon Icon. Like I was possessed by the Dustin Diamond of demonic entities. This album gets a C+ because I really enjoyed the time I spent hating it."[63]

David Drake of Pitchfork wrote, "irony and irreverence can only do so much lifting on a record this thin. Neon Icon is hardly an affront to hip-hop's very foundation; instead, it's an adequate, listenable rap album, and for a part-time rapper/full-time jaw-dropper, there couldn't be a more damning outcome."[54] Jesse Fairfax of HipHopDX stated, "Neon Icon seems aimless and not very well thought out. There are occasional hilarious moments; he throws pesos at strippers and refers to himself as “The White Wesley Snipes.” Riff ratchets up the oddity factor and gets creativity points for rhyming over Mac Miller's sparse piano keys and the sound of a skittering dolphin (“Aquaberry Dolphin”). But on face value, Neon Icon is neither entertaining as sheer parody, nor a passable attempt at making a sincere Hip Hop album when judged by its merits."[52] Justin Block of XXL said, "The final Neon Icon product is merely 15 songs picked in the hope of just one catching some crossover play. There are many opportunities on this album for that. But on the whole, it's completely incohesive and difficult to listen to. In some ways, Neon Icon is a sunk cost album after delays and the sheer amount of material recorded. It pans out as—at the very least—a unique and varied production that asks to be received seriously, even if Riff Raff's choppy, uneasy flow and absurdist imagery runs counter to that."[58]

Commercial performance

[edit]

The album debuted at number 22 on the Billboard 200, with first-week sales of 11,524 copies in the United States.[64]

Track listing

[edit]
Standard edition
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)[65]Length
1."Introducing the Icon"
Deezus4:06
2."Kokayne"
Diplo3:02
3."Wetter Than Tsunami"
Raf Riley3:16
4."Jody 3 Moons" (Skit)
  • Simco
  • Derek Allen
DJA1:26
5."Versace Python"
  • Simco
  • Pentz
  • Barrett Jines
  • Atira
  • Diplo
3:03
6."Lava Glaciers" (featuring Childish Gambino)
Harry Fraud3:52
7."Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz"
  • Simco
  • R. Story
Top Secret Productions4:04
8."Maybe You Love Me" (featuring Mike Posner)
DJA2:57
9."Aquaberry Dolphin" (featuring Mac Miller)
Larry Fisherman2:14
10."The Bloomingdales at Windshire Palace" (Skit)Simco 1:40
11."Time"
  • Simco
  • Allen
DJA3:39
12."How to Be the Man"
DJ Mustard2:53
13."Cool It Down" (featuring Amber Coffman)
  • Diplo
  • Mike Dez
2:55
14."VIP Pass to My Heart"
  • Simco
  • Allen
DJA3:33
15."How to Be the Man" (Houston Remix) (featuring Slim Thug and Paul Wall)
DJ Mustard4:18
Vinyl bonus track[66]
No.TitleWriter(s)Length
16."Stupid Girl"Simco3:51
Pre-order bonus tracks[45]
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
16."2 Girls One Pipe"
  • Simco
  • Allen
DJA2:18
17."Tropical Vacation"Simco
  • Beau Billionaire
  • Anna Yvette
3:43

Personnel

[edit]

Credits for Neon Icon adapted from AllMusic.[67]

  • Childish Gambino – featured artist
  • Amber Coffman – featured artist
  • Anna Yvette – producer
  • Atira – producer
  • Beau Billionaire – producer
  • Mike Dez – producer
  • Deezus – producer
  • Diplo – producer
  • DJ Mustard – producer
  • DJA – producer
  • Harry Fraud – producer
  • Jaime "Jimmy Cash" Lepe – mastering, mixing
  • Van Jazmin – cover image and booklet art
  • Mac Miller – featured artist, producer
  • Mike Posner – featured artist
  • RiFF RAFF – primary artist
  • Raff Riley – producer
  • Slim Thug – featured artist
  • Top Secret – producer
  • Paul Wall – featured artist

Charts

[edit]
Chart (2014) Peak
position
US Billboard 200[68] 22
US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums (Billboard)[69] 6

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Neon Icon

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Neon Icon is the debut studio album by American rapper Riff Raff. Released on June 24, 2014, through the record label , the project marks Riff Raff's first full-length effort following years of mixtapes and viral internet fame. The album features 15 tracks, including skits, and boasts guest appearances from artists such as Childish Gambino on "Lava Glaciers," on "Aquaberry Dolphin," on "Maybe You Love Me," of on "Cool It Down," and Houston rappers and on the remix of "How to Be the Man." Production duties were shared among (Mad Decent's founder), DJ Mustard, Harry , and DJA, resulting in a eclectic mix of trap, pop, and club-oriented beats. Drawing from Riff Raff's Houston roots in the Swishahouse tradition, Neon Icon emphasizes his signature surreal, humorous, and stream-of-consciousness lyricism, often filled with pop culture references and absurd imagery, over diverse sonic backdrops that evoke early '90s rap, bubbly R&B, and twee club sounds. Standout tracks include the opener "Introducing the Icon," the Diplo-produced "Kokayne," and the catchy "Maybe You Love Me." Upon release, Neon Icon debuted at number 22 on the US chart, selling 11,000 copies in its first week. The album received mixed critical reception, with reviewers praising its playful energy and listenability but critiquing its lack of lyrical depth and cohesive narrative; awarded it a 5.4 out of 10, calling it an "adequate, listenable rap album" that served as an anti-climactic full-length debut for the cult rapper.

Background and development

Background

Riff Raff, born Horst Christian Simco, conceived his debut studio album Neon Icon following his signing to Diplo's Mad Decent label in May 2012, marking a pivotal shift from independent mixtape releases to a major-label project aimed at solidifying his eccentric persona in hip-hop. The album's development emerged from Riff Raff's burgeoning online cult following, cultivated through viral videos and social media antics that positioned him as a surreal, meme-like figure in the early 2010s rap scene. This period of hype-building laid the groundwork for Neon Icon, envisioned as a showcase for his self-styled "neon" aesthetic—characterized by vibrant clothing, outlandish narratives, and a blend of absurdity with technical rhyme schemes. The title Neon Icon reflects Riff Raff's self-perception as an uncopyable rising figure in hip-hop that fuses his colorful, larger-than-life branding with iconic status ambitions. This branding drew from his roots, where early influences like and shaped his laid-back flow and Southern swagger, while broader eclectic tastes in hip-hop, pop, and electronic sounds informed the project's experimental vision. Although later explorations into highlighted his genre-blending curiosity, Neon Icon's core was rooted in hip-hop's trap and subgenres, amplified by Mad Decent's electronic edge. Prior to Neon Icon, Riff Raff's career milestones included a series of self-released mixtapes that generated underground buzz and caught the attention of industry figures like . Key releases such as Sour & Gun Powder in November 2011 showcased his whimsical storytelling over trap beats, while Birth of an Icon in August 2012 compiled fan-favorite tracks and collaborations, further amplifying his notoriety. The collaborative tape Hologram Panda with producer , released in December 2012, intensified anticipation by experimenting with holographic-themed visuals and dense production, positioning Riff Raff as a ready for mainstream breakthrough. These projects collectively transformed his MySpace-era freestyles into a cohesive of ascent, setting the stage for the album's formal debut.

Recording and production

The recording sessions for Neon Icon spanned from 2012 to early 2014, during which Riff Raff amassed over 100 songs across various studios. Executive producer played a central role in curating the final selection, prioritizing an eclectic array of beats to capture the rapper's neon-hued, genre-blending aesthetic. Key contributors to the production included , who helmed tracks such as "How to Be the Man" and "Kokayne"; DJ Mustard, responsible for beats like "Versace Python"; on "Aquaberry Dolphin"; and (Mac Miller) for "Lizzobeth." Additional producers like DJA and Deezus handled foundational elements, contributing to the album's diverse sonic palette. Guest features were integrated through targeted sessions, with Childish Gambino recording his verse for "Lava Glaciers" and contributing to "Aquaberry Dolphin." laid down his part for "Tip Toe Wing In My Jawwwdinz," adding a raw trap edge to the track. Early buzz suggested a collaboration with Drake, which did not appear on the final album; instead, Riff Raff featured on a of Drake's "." The production emphasized trap-influenced beats, prominent on Riff Raff's vocals for a futuristic sheen, and inventive sample flips drawing from pop and country sources to create unexpected juxtapositions. For instance, "Kokayne" incorporates riffs evoking punk energy, while other cuts nod to classic hip-hop and Southern styles for rhythmic drive.

Release and promotion

Singles

The lead single from Neon Icon, "How to Be the Man", was released on November 26, 2013, through Mad Decent. Produced by DJ Mustard, the track features Riff Raff's signature boastful lyrics over a minimal West Coast beat, emphasizing themes of success and swagger. A promotional tie-in included a MySpace commercial released on October 30, 2013, which previewed the single alongside album teasers. The official music video, directed by Stuey Kubrick and released on May 23, 2014, depicts Riff Raff in a classroom setting, imparting absurd life lessons to children amid his exaggerated persona and colorful outfits, creating a wild and surreal atmosphere. A Houston remix featuring Slim Thug and Paul Wall was later released as a standalone video on June 5, 2014, tying into regional promotion for the album. The second single, "Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz", followed on June 10, 2014, also via Mad Decent. Produced by Top Secret Productions, the song showcases Riff Raff's playful wordplay referencing luxury sneakers and nocturnal escapades, backed by a trap-influenced instrumental. It gained traction through social media buzz and radio play on urban stations, contributing to the album's hype. The track peaked at number 24 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart. Its official music video, directed by Mickey Finnegan and premiered on November 11, 2014, presents a parodic, over-the-top narrative with Riff Raff navigating eccentric scenarios, amplifying the song's whimsical vibe. Single artwork for both tracks adopted neon-hued, glossy aesthetics aligned with the album's visual identity, featuring Riff Raff in flamboyant poses against vibrant backdrops. No additional B-sides or standalone singles were issued directly tied to Neon Icon beyond these releases and the remix.

Marketing and delays

Neon Icon was initially announced in mid-2013 as Riff Raff's debut studio , slated for a September release via in partnership with Lyor Cohen's imprint. The project faced numerous delays over the following year, with an early target of January 2014 postponed due to legal paperwork complications. Further pushbacks occurred, including from a planned March rollout, as the artist and label refined the tracklist, production elements, and added high-profile guest features to enhance the 's appeal. By April 2014, a new date of April 29 was teased via Riff Raff's , but this too shifted, with the final announcement confirming a release. These delays stemmed from ongoing efforts to perfect the sound and approach, amid Riff Raff's frequent online teases that kept fans engaged despite the uncertainty. Promotional strategies emphasized digital accessibility and live engagement to build hype. Pre-orders launched on platforms like and , granting buyers instant access to five tracks including "Tip Toe Wing in My Jaww$," allowing early streaming previews. Additional snippets and full songs from the were shared on by , providing fans with a taste of the neon-infused aesthetic. Riff Raff supported the rollout with the Neon Icon Tour, a 20-date U.S. run starting April 12 in , featuring performances of upcoming material and special guest Grandtheft, which served as a key tie-in to generate buzz ahead of the drop. Neon-themed merchandise, including apparel collaborations like the Neff collection of vibrant tees and headwear, was released to complement the 's visual identity and extend its branding. Post-release promotion continued the momentum through live appearances, with Riff Raff performing album cuts at major events such as SXSW in March 2014, where his set at the Doritos-sponsored stage showcased the project's energetic style to festival audiences. The label rolled out in the ensuing months, tying into the tour's extension and maintaining visibility, though the lack of a traditional heavy radio push reflected the album's unconventional marketing path.

Music and themes

Composition and style

Neon Icon fuses trap hip-hop at its core with elements of electronic, , and pop, creating an eclectic sound across its 15 tracks spanning 47:28. This genre-blending approach is evident in the album's production, which incorporates booming 808 bass lines, heavy on vocals, and synth-heavy beats to craft a vibrant, otherworldly aesthetic. The trap foundation provides rhythmic drive through skittering hi-hats and deep sub-bass, while electronic influences introduce pulsating synths and occasional EDM-like builds, as seen in various track constructions. Key stylistic features include Riff Raff's liberally auto-tuned delivery, which lends a melodic, futuristic sheen to the rap verses, often layered over diverse instrumentations for comedic and surreal effect. Booming 808s anchor the beats, delivering club-ready thump, while synths range from ‘80s-inspired pop textures to hazy, atmospheric pads. For instance, the production employs sampled sounds like dolphin calls and sparse piano loops to add whimsy, enhancing the album's neon-lit, exaggerated vibe without veering into pure parody. Track-by-track, the instrumentation varies to showcase this fusion. "Introducing the Icon" opens with a high-energy, boastful beat featuring aggressive auto-tune and pounding drums reminiscent of ‘80s rap aggression. "Kokayne" shifts to rock-rap with electric guitar riffs and a punk-inflected beat, incorporating gritty distortion for edge. "Wetter Than Tsunami" rides a seasick trap beat with wavy synths and relentless 808s, emphasizing aquatic, disorienting production. "Lava Glaciers" (feat. Childish Gambino) employs knocking, psychedelic soul-rap elements via layered percussion and ethereal synth washes. "Aquaberry Dolphin" (feat. Mac Miller) uses tinkling piano loops and sampled dolphin calls over a sparse, quirky backdrop, blending whimsy with subtle trap undertones. "Time" incorporates country twang through sampled acoustic guitar and banjo-like plucks, fused with hip-hop drums. "How to Be the Man" delivers straightforward trap goofiness with booming bass and hi-hat rolls. "Maybe You Love Me" (feat. Mike Posner) adopts pop-rap sheen with glossy synth hooks and upbeat electronic pulses. "VIP Pass to My Heart" experiments with ‘80s-synthpop weirdness, featuring warped auto-tune effects and retro keyboard leads. "Versace Python" and "Cool It Down" (feat. Amber Coffman) highlight crooned, melodic hooks over mid-tempo beats with piano and string accents. Skits like "Jody 3 Moons" and "The Bloomingdales At Windshire Palace" punctuate with lo-fi, narrative-driven audio clips, maintaining the album's playful continuity. The album's production maintains consistency under executive producer Diplo's oversight at , with contributions from DJ Mustard, , DJA, and others, who emphasize sample-based, high-energy beats crafted in . This collaborative effort ensures a polished yet experimental sound, prioritizing bold sonic textures over rigid genre boundaries.

Lyrics and concepts

The lyrics of Neon Icon center on core themes of excess, fame, surreal humor, and Southern swagger, conveyed through Riff Raff's signature and non-sequiturs that prioritize over linear . Often likened to "Dadaist luxury rap," the content draws from Riff Raff's background, blending boastful extravagance with disjointed imagery to satirize and self-mythologizing. Tracks like "Versace Python" exemplify these concepts by referencing luxury and absurdity, with Riff Raff rapping lines such as "When I wake up, it’s a mystery / Every time I open my mouth, history," evoking a larger-than-life amid opulent yet nonsensical references to patterns and limousine dreams. The song's melancholic juxtaposes emotional vulnerability—"Tears fall from the castles around my heart"—with exaggerated boasts, highlighting the tension between fame's glamour and its isolation. The album's narrative arc portrays a "neon" journey from underdog to icon, incorporating autobiographical elements from Riff Raff's Texas roots, as seen in self-referential bars like likening himself to "white Gucci Mane with a spray tan." This progression underscores his transformation from internet curiosity to rap fixture, framed through playful, over-the-top declarations of success. Guest verses integrate seamlessly into this framework, as with Childish Gambino's contribution on "Lava Glaciers," where his absurd, humorous lines amplify the chaotic energy and thematic eccentricity, creating a collaborative dynamic that enhances the album's surreal party-like vibe without overshadowing Riff Raff's voice.

Reception

Critical reception

Upon its release in June 2014, Neon Icon received mixed reviews from critics, who were divided on Riff Raff's eccentric persona and the album's genre-blending production. On aggregate review site , the album holds a score of 61 out of 100 based on 14 critic reviews, reflecting generally favorable but polarized reception with 6 positive reviews (42%), 6 mixed (42%), and 2 negative (14%). Positive critiques often praised Riff Raff's inventive humor and charismatic delivery, viewing the album as a bold extension of his style. In a favorable review, Spin awarded it 8 out of 10, lauding the rapper's "never-not-funny, madlibs-style game of goofball lyricism" and tracks like "How to Be the Man," which highlighted his satirical take on hip-hop tropes through absurd lines such as "My mermaids are ." Similarly, gave it 3 out of 5 stars, emphasizing Riff Raff's "cartoonish charisma" as a core strength that made the album a "gloriously nonsensical" showcase of his outsized personality amid polished production. Critics on the negative side faulted the album for lacking cohesion and over-relying on gimmicks, despite strong beats from producers like . Pitchfork rated it 5.4 out of 10, describing it as "thin and anti-climactic" with lyrics that had "atrophied into arbitrary pop culture juxtapositions," though it acknowledged catchy moments like "Maybe You Love Me" featuring . Rolling Stone issued a mixed review, calling it a "scattershot affair" of chaotic styles that occasionally cohered into something thrilling but lacked deeper substance. Overall, initial reviews in 2014 captured the album's polarizing nature, balancing admiration for its creativity against critiques of its fragmented execution.

Commercial performance

Neon Icon debuted at number 22 on the chart in the United States, where it sold 11,524 copies in its first week of release. The album also peaked at number 7 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, reflecting its appeal within the genre despite modest overall sales figures. Internationally, the album achieved limited chart success, with minimal presence on major charts. These positions underscored Neon Icon's primarily domestic focus and niche audience. In the years following its 2014 release, Neon Icon saw gradual growth through digital streaming platforms, particularly , where the album has amassed over 59 million streams as of September 2025. Total equivalent album units remain modest, with no reported, indicating combined sales and streaming consumption below major thresholds. The album's commercial trajectory was bolstered by radio airplay for lead singles like "Kokayne," produced by , and Riff Raff's supporting Neon Icon Tour, which spanned from to May 2014 and helped sustain visibility amid promotional efforts.

Post-release and legacy

Remixes and variants

Following the release of Neon Icon, Riff Raff issued several official remixes of tracks from the album, primarily distributed through digital platforms. On July 2, 2014, he released a remix of the bonus track "2 Girls 1 Pipe" featuring Frankie Palmeri, the frontman of the metalcore band Emmure, exclusively via SoundCloud under Mad Decent. This version added Palmeri's aggressive rap verse to the original's playful, explicit narrative, enhancing its crossover appeal between hip-hop and heavy music scenes. Nearly a year later, on August 20, 2015, Riff Raff dropped a of "Wetter Than Tsunami"—which originally featured —accompanied by an official directed by . The , also available digitally through and platforms like , amplified the track's chaotic energy with updated production and Brown's heightened delivery, building on the original's appearance on the . These remixes were released solely in digital formats, with no physical editions, and have been integrated into Riff Raff's subsequent live as part of his Neon Icon-era setlists. As of November 2025, no full reissues or deluxe editions of the album have been announced or released by .

Cultural impact

Neon Icon solidified Riff Raff's position within hip-hop as a pioneering figure in the weirdo rap subgenre, blending absurdity and satire to challenge traditional norms and pave the way for internet-driven aesthetics that later defined SoundCloud rap. The album's release amplified his reputation for meme-worthy content, with tracks like "Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz" sparking viral phenomena on platforms such as , where users mimicked its signature tiptoe , contributing to a broader cultural craze. Riff Raff's neon-drenched persona, epitomized by the album's title and visuals, has endured as a hallmark of eccentric fashion in hip-hop, influencing trends that emphasize bold, colorful self-presentation. This satirical edge positioned him as a cultural touchstone for in rap, embraced early by outlets like for his unfiltered, humorous approach. Following Neon Icon, the project served as a foundation for Riff Raff's artistic evolution, leading to subsequent releases like Peach Panther in 2016 and Alcoholic Alligator in 2018, which expanded his neon-themed narrative while sustaining a dedicated fanbase. In the 2020s, tracks from the album, such as "Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwdinz," have experienced renewed popularity on short-form video platforms like TikTok, boosting streaming numbers and attracting younger listeners to his early work.

Credits and track listing

Track listing

The standard edition of Neon Icon by RiFF RAFF contains 15 tracks, with a total runtime of 47:32.
No.TitleFeaturingDurationProducer(s)Writer(s)
1"Introducing the Icon"4:06DeezusB. Down, H. Simco*
2"Kokayne"3:02H. Simco*, T. Pentz
3"Wetter Than Tsunami"3:16Raf RileyH. Simco*, R. Greifer
4"Jody 3 Moons (Skit)"1:26DJAD. Allen, H. Simco*
5"Versace Python"3:03Atira, B. Jines, H. Simco*, T. Pentz
6"Lava Glaciers"Childish Gambino3:52D. Glover, H. Simco*, R. Quigley
7"Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwwdinz"4:04H. Simco*, R. Story
8"Maybe You Love Me"2:57DJAD. Allen, H. Simco*, M. Posner
9"Aquaberry Dolphin"2:14H. Simco*, M. McCormick
10"The Bloomingdales at Windshire Palace (Skit)"1:40H. Simco*
11"Time"3:39DJAD. Allen, H. Simco*
12"How to Be the Man"2:53DJ MustardD. McFarlane, H. Simco*
13"Cool It Down"2:55, Mike DezA. Coffman, H. Simco*, M. Abundes, T. Pentz
14"VIP Pass to My Heart"3:33DJAD. Allen, H. Simco*
15"How to Be the Man (Houston Remix)"Paul Wall & 4:18DJ MustardD. McFarlane, H. Simco*
*H. Simco refers to Horst Christian Simco (RiFF RAFF). No samples are noted for any tracks.

Personnel

Riff Raff, also known as Jody Highroller (born Horst Christian Simco), serves as the primary artist on , providing lead vocals and songwriting credits across all tracks. The album features several guest artists on select tracks, including Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) on "Lava Glaciers," on "Wetter Than Tsunami," on "Maybe You Love Me," (Malcolm McCormick) on "Aquaberry Dolphin," on "Cool It Down," and and on "How to Be the Man (Houston Remix)." Production duties are handled by a roster of contributors, with (Thomas Wesley Pentz) serving as and producing tracks 2 ("Kokayne"), 5 ("Versace Python," co-produced with Atira), and 13 ("," co-produced with Mike Dez). Other producers include Deezus on track 1 ("Introducing the Icon"), Raf Riley on track 3 ("Wetter Than "), DJA ( Allen) on tracks 4 ("Jody 3 Moons (Skit)"), 8 ("Maybe You Love Me"), 11 ("Time"), and 14 ("VIP Pass to My Heart"), on track 6 ("Lava Glaciers"), Larry Fisherman (Mac Miller's production alias) on track 9 ("Aquaberry Dolphin"), Atira on track 5 ("Versace Python," co-produced with ), Mike Dez on track 13 ("," co-produced with ), on track 7 ("Tip Toe Wing in My Jawwwdinz"), and DJ Mustard (Dijon McFarlane) on tracks 12 ("How to Be the Man") and 15 ("How to Be the Man ( Remix)"). Additional instrumentation includes guitar by Stefan Gindele on track 13 (). Technical credits encompass mixing and mastering by Jaime "Jimmy Cash" Lepe for the entire album. Artwork and are credited to Van Jazmin and Uncle Grumpy Inc.

Charts

Chart (2014)Peak position
US Billboard 20022
US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums6
US Top Rap Albums4

References

  1. https://pitchfork.com/news/55272-riff-raffs-neon-icon-album-finally-announced-features-dirty-projectors-amber-coffman-diplo-dj-mustard-mac-miller-more/
  2. https://www.discogs.com/master/706618-Riff-Raff-Neon-Icon
  3. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/19484-riff-raff-neon-icon/
  4. https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/21016-first-week-sales-for-ab-soul-g-eazy-and-riff-raff-are-here-news
  5. https://www.complex.com/music/a/andrew-martin/diplo-signs-riff-raff-to-mad-decent-buys-him-45k-chain
  6. https://www.xxlmag.com/riff-raff-and-dame-grease-hologram-panda-mixtape-premiere/
  7. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/mixtape/riff-raff/sour-and-gun-powder/
  8. https://www.xxlmag.com/riff-raff-neon-icon-album-review/
  9. https://genius.com/albums/Riff-raff/Neon-icon
  10. https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/14602-riff-raff-and-diplo-reveal-features-and-production-on-neon-icon-include-lex-luger-mac-miller-wiz-kha-news
  11. https://music.apple.com/us/album/neon-icon/879705653
  12. https://www.bonafidemag.com/review-riff-raff-neon-icon/
  13. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZruA9JitmY
  14. https://soundcloud.com/maddecent/riff-raff-how-to-be-the-man-1
  15. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biiy1QAZY1s
  16. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vo7ZnSC59mY
  17. https://genius.com/Riff-raff-tip-toe-wing-in-my-jawwdinz-lyrics/q/producer
  18. https://theboxhouston.com/author/ronekiotti/page/60/
  19. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?id=167784
  20. https://imvdb.com/video/riff-raff/tip-toe-wing-in-my-jawwdinz
  21. https://exclaim.ca/music/article/riff_raff_reveals_neon_icon_album_art
  22. https://hiphopdx.com/reviews/riff-raff-neon-icon/
  23. https://buffablog.com/riff-raff-neon-icon/
  24. https://www.reddit.com/r/hiphopheads/comments/296tsj/ama_hey_im_dja_derek_allen_producer_of_neon_icon/
  25. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2014/jun/29/riff-raff-rapper-houston-album-touring-twitter
  26. https://www.vice.com/en/article/rap-game-riff-raff-versace-lyrics/
  27. https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/24451-review-riff-raff-s-neon-icon-news
  28. https://www.metacritic.com/music/neon-icon/riff-raff
  29. https://www.spin.com/2014/07/riff-raff-neon-icon-mad-decent-review/
  30. https://www.allmusic.com/album/neon-icon-mw0002680130
  31. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/neon-icon-105853/
  32. https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/456896-charts-don-t-lie-july-6-news
  33. https://kworb.net/spotify/artist/31IZdHrCZ5pRhLz4zBxN3o_albums.html
  34. https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/19586-riff-raff-announces-neon-icon-tour-dates-news
  35. https://theboombox.com/riff-raff-2-girls-1-pipe-remix-frankie-palmeri/
  36. https://metalinjection.net/av/emmures-frankie-palmeri-raps-on-new-riff-raff-remix-track-yes-for-real
  37. https://www.xxlmag.com/riff-raff-danny-brown-get-wetter-tsunami-new-video/
  38. https://elevatormag.com/riff-raff-releases-video-with-danny-brown-that-was-supposed-to-drop-last-year
  39. https://www.complex.com/music/a/craig-jenkins/history-weirdo-rappers
  40. https://www.xxlmag.com/riff-raff-previews-tip-toe-wing-in-my-jawwdinz-part-two/
  41. https://www.buzzfeed.com/richardhjames/there-is-a-new-tiptoeing-dance-craze-and-it-is-amazing
  42. https://www.vice.com/en/article/my-internet-friend-riff-raff/
  43. https://www.complex.com/music/a/jeff-weiss/lee-q-odenat-worldstar-hip-hop-founder-obituary-and-legacy
  44. https://pitchfork.com/news/61957-riff-raff-details-new-album-peach-panther-featuring-danny-brown-gucci-mane-lil-durk-more/
  45. https://www.tiktok.com/@riffraff/video/6806425342014672134
  46. https://open.spotify.com/album/0bWUFcpv1R7FeAgYac8vru
  47. https://www.discogs.com/release/5866070-Riff-Raff-Neon-Icon
  48. https://www.discogs.com/release/5822335-Riff-Raff-Neon-Icon
  49. https://www.amoeba.com/ajax/album_credits.php?id=3358809
  50. https://www.rapmusicguide.com/cd/15017/riff-raff-neon-icon
  51. https://www.billboard.com/artist/riff-raff/chart-history/billboard-200/
  52. https://www.billboard.com/artist/riff-raff/chart-history/top-r-and-b-hip-hop-albums/
  53. https://www.billboard.com/artist/riff-raff/chart-history/top-rap-albums/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.