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The Coming
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The Coming
Studio album by
Busta Rhymes
ReleasedMarch 26, 1996
Recorded1994–95
Studio
GenreEast Coast hip-hop[1]
Length63:50
Label
Producer
Busta Rhymes chronology
T.I.M.E. (The Inner Mind's Eye)
(1993) 		The Coming
(1996) 		When Disaster Strikes...
(1997)
Busta Rhymes solo chronology
The Coming
(1996) 		When Disaster Strikes...
(1997)
Singles from The Coming
  1. "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check"
    Released: January 7, 1996
  2. "It's a Party"
    Released: June 25, 1996
  3. "Do My Thing"
    Released: 1997

The Coming is the debut studio album by the American rapper and record producer Busta Rhymes. It was released on March 26, 1996, by Flipmode Entertainment and Elektra Records. The album contains contributions by the Def Squad members Redman, Keith Murray, and Jamal; as well as Q-Tip, Zhané, Leaders of the New School, and several Flipmode Squad members. It was produced by DJ Scratch, Easy Mo Bee, and the Ummah, among others. It serves as Rhymes's first solo album after the breakup of Leaders of the New School two years prior, and his first full-length project after numerous guest appearances on other songs with artists such as A Tribe Called Quest, the Notorious B.I.G., Heavy D and the Boyz, and Mary J. Blige.

The album reached number six on the Billboard 200 chart. Although, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), The Coming was certified platinum on January 13, 1999, Rhymes has stated that the album went platinum within the same year of its release.[2] The lead single, "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check" reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1996, and earned Rhymes his first nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance at the 39th Grammy Awards. The second single, "It's a Party" (featuring Zhané) would also make the chart, peaking at number 52. In commemoration of its 25th anniversary, a super deluxe edition of The Coming featuring remixes, instrumentals and acapellas was released to all streaming platforms on April 16, 2021, by Rhino.

Background and recording

[edit]

"I was like the first artist to really start rhyming on everyone else's record. And I was doing that because it was a quick way to feed my kid. That's what was going on until, you know, I got to a place where I felt comfortable enough with doing a solo album."

– Busta Rhymes, on his many guest appearances [2]

The Coming serves as Busta Rhymes's first solo album after the break up of his former group Leaders of the New School. As his group had just broken up and he had his first son, he needed a source of income to provide a secure life for his son. He then got offered an Elektra Records solo deal by Dante Ross and Chris Lighty but was hesitant about accepting the deal due to his concerns regarding if he would be able to captivate listeners for the length of an entire album by himself. To get more comfortable with recording without his former group Leaders of the New School, he then appeared on numerous other artists' records. He did so to experiment with and find his own sound. His guest appearances at the time included A Tribe Called Quest's "Oh My God" and Craig Mack's "Flava in Ya Ear (Remix)", among others. Rhymes contributed hugely to the ongoing trend of guest appearances in hip hop.[2]

The initial recording sessions began in late 1994 in Los Angeles, where Rhymes was shooting for the movie Higher Learning, directed by John Singleton. When shooting ended, he also flew to Atlanta where he worked with record producer Dallas Austin in his new recording studio D.A.R.P. (Dallas Austin Recording Projects). Rhymes was worried about his responsibility and the future of his family, unsure whether he was capable of making a debut that would serve as the foundation of his solo career. Back in New York City, he moved between three recording studios, The Music Palace, Chung King Studios and Soundtrack Studios, to record music. After he sourced beats, he would write solely in the studio, afraid to lose lines or ideas for flows. Everything, including arrangements, concepts, choruses and verses, was written down on paper. Most of the time, he worked alone in the studio, with no one to hype him up before or after he got in the booth.[2]

"He was creating a sound that nobody else was doing. I loved it, and it reminded me of that hard-slapping, creative way of sampling records that Q-Tip was already doing, and Large Professor, Pete Rock, and Preemo. But he sounded closer to Q-Tip more than anybody else. Tip was one of my favorite producers at the time, and Dilla sounded like a young, iller version of Q-Tip. That was it. I just fell in love with his work."

– Busta Rhymes, on frequent collaborator J Dilla[2]

Up until this point, Rhymes had problems with recording a full album on his own and sought help from his frequent collaborator, the rapper Q-Tip.[3] Rhymes was mentored by Q-Tip, who gave him advice, motivated him and played a role in choosing the direction for the album.[2] With his help and after several months of frustration, he finally came up with the idea that would become the skit after "It's a Party".[3] In 1995, Q-Tip also introduced Rhymes to the then-unknown record producer J Dilla, who was known as Jay Dee at the time and had his biggest credits on the hip hop group the Pharcyde's second studio album Labcabincalifornia.[2] Dilla went on to produce two tracks on the album, "Still Shining" and "Keep It Movin'", as well as numerous other tracks by Rhymes in the following years.

Rhymes recorded a track for the album called "The Ugliest" with the rapper the Notorious B.I.G. over a beat by Dilla. The rappers Method Man and Nas were also set to appear on the track which because of scheduling conflict did not come about. Because of subliminal disses about 2Pac by Biggie, the song was ultimately not included on the album. Biggie's verse would later be reused on "Dangerous MC's", a posse cut on the posthumously released 1999 album Born Again, also featuring Rhymes, Mark Curry and Snoop Dogg,[2] while the song itself was released in a new form on Rhymes' 2003 mixtape "Surrender".

Rhymes dedicated the album to the memory of his first and late son, Tahiem Jr, and friends Ratto, Big Joe and Love.[4]

Concept and title

[edit]

Describing the concept of the album's title, Busta Rhymes said, "The Coming, I just felt, was such a general yet specific statement that the level of meaning is so powerful... The coming of what? When is it coming? How is it coming? Where is it coming from? Why is it coming?"[5]

Cover art

[edit]

The cover art of The Coming was shot by Dean Karr. It displays a framed image of Rhymes with his mouth stretched wide, screaming. His locks are fanned out wildly behind his head with a white dove perched above him. The cover art is blurred and foggy.[6]

Music and lyrics

[edit]

As Rhymes was not comfortable with including lyrics about his personal life and struggles, the album was very short on autobiographical or personal topics and lyrics.[2]

The "epic," "extended and extremely busy" intro of The Coming[7] contains two beat change ups and "commentary on wack rappers and the state of the rap game" from Rhymes.[8] Rhymes "dedicates [the last] portion [of the song] to all the 'niggas that keep falling', as a clever ODB vocal snippet plays behind him, emulating the sound of a man screaming as he falls from extremely high heights to his death."[7] The appearances of Flipmode Squad members Lord Have Mercy and Rampage on the track have been described as a "cartoonishly monstrous prologue".[8] The "first real song" on the album,[7] "Do My Thing", features a "funky, heavy-bass beat" by producer DJ Scratch. Rhymes' verses on the track have been described as "ridiculously witty." The track ends with a short skit that "re-iterates how Busta feels about wack rappers,"[8] as Rhymes can be heard "whipping" somebody for "talking shit," and copying his lyrics. The skit has been removed from digital versions of the album.[7] The "grimy, nocturnal" instrumental with "heavy drums" of "Everything Remains Raw" was produced by Easy Mo Bee.[8] Many of Rhymes' lyrics on the track were previously used on his freestyle on Funkmaster Flex's 1995 mixtape The Mix Tape, Volume 1: 60 Minutes of Funk.[7] Both the previous track, "Do My Thing", and "Everything Remains Raw" have been said to "provide no distractions and illuminate how Busta's humor and knowledge can seep through a track while simultaneously highlighting his great rhyming".[9]

Over the "energetic, stripped-down instrumental" of "Abandon Ship" produced by Rhymes, he and his cousin Rampage "showcase their chemistry on the mic with one hyped-up, razor-sharp lyric after another". The song's refrain has been described as "catchy-as-hell." After "Abandon Ship" ends, an excerpt of Galt MacDermot 1969 song "Space", which gets sampled on the following track, can be heard. This interlude "helps to bring the energy down from 'Abandon Ship'". The fifth track and lead single "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check" features "cleverly-written" lyrics with a "manic delivery" over an "infectious" instrumental by Rhymes and Rashad Smith.[8] Rhymes builds the chorus around a line from the 1980 Sugar Hill Gang song "8th Wonder".[3] For each of the three verses, the last word in each lyric rhymes with one another. The "groovy," "clearly tailor-made for radio airplay" instrumental for R&B crossover "It's a Party" was produced by Easy Mo Bee and features R&B duo Zhané, who "provide some smooth, seductive lyrics [...], while Busta plays the guy who lyrically flirts with them in-between their short verses and chorus".[8] The song is followed by a skit featuring a "quick throw away verse," as most of the verse contains Rhymes ad libbing, and multiple shoutouts to Saddam Hussein.[7] The skit was the first track recorded for the album[3] and has been removed from digital versions of the album.[7]

The "dark jazz textured backdrop" of "Hot Fudge" produced by the Vibe Chemist Backspin finds Rhymes "calming down just enough to sound sinister and slightly scary".[7] The song is followed by a skit about a Jamaican woman getting oral sex, "with no intentions of paying her sexual partner back the one she owes him."[7] The "moody" and "nocturnal" instrumental of "Ill Vibe" was produced by the featured Q-Tip. The chemistry between Rhymes and Q-Tip has been described as similar to that of Method Man and Redman.[10] In the next track, "Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad", the Def Squad members Jamal, Redman and Keith Murray engage against the Flipmode Squad members Rampage, Lord Have Mercy and Rhymes in a rap battle with no chorus or hook over a backdrop produced by the Vibe Chemist Backspin.[7] The song is Rhymes' "attempt to create another memorable posse record on par with 'Scenario' by A Tribe Called Quest featuring Leaders of the New School (the group Rhymes was a part of), and [...] 'Headbanger' (by the Hit Squad, the group from which the Def Squad emerged)" and serves "as the formal introduction" of Rhymes' Flipmode Squad.[9]

The "spacey, synth-assisted production" of "Still Shining" by producer J Dilla goes right "into a short but sweet acknowledgment of Busta's own lyrical talents as an MC." The chorus interpolates one of Rhymes' lines on the remix of A Tribe Called Quest's "Scenario". In an interlude between "Still Shining" and the following track "Keep It Movin'", Rhymes "verbally scar[es] the shit out of his LONS [Leaders of the New School] peers to get themselves out of their retirement comfort zone to get to the studio." The "bluesy" instrumental of "The Finish Line" was produced by DJ Scratch. The song contains Rhymes rapping about the untrue lifestyle of a man and explains how it "will soon lead to his demise." In the outro, "The End of the World", Rhymes re-uses one of the beats from the intro and uses it to "show gratitude to his supporting fans and offers up a few parting words about using your time wisely." The track is followed by a short skit in which a man can be heard, "who's apparently on his death bed full of regret for not using his time wisely and accomplishing all things he wanted out of life. Then [...] the man slips into death, travels through the 'dark tunnel' [...] [as a] portion of the medieval classic "O Fortuna" plays, while a distorted devilish voice laughs, which suggests that the regretful man went to hell." The outro has been described as "putting a super dark ending on what was mostly a light-hearted listen."[7]

Singles

[edit]

"Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check" was released as the first official single from The Coming on January 7, 1996. In the United States, the song was released on February 27, 1996, and included a notable remix version featuring Ol' Dirty Bastard. Rhymes' cousin, the Flipmode Squad member Rampage, contributes additional vocals to the standard version and is credited as an official guest artist on some releases of the song. The song reached the top ten in the charts of the United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand, and also charted in Sweden, the Netherlands, Scotland, Germany and Australia.

"It's a Party", featuring the American R&B duo Zhané, was released as the second official single from the album on June 25, 1996. Upon its release, the single peaked at number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and peaked at number 4 on the Hip-Hop Singles Chart in the United Kingdom. It also charted at number 7 on both the Dance Singles Sales and Hot Rap Songs charts in the US, and also charted in New Zealand, Scotland, and the United Kingdom. "Do My Thing" was released as the third and last official single from the album in 1997, outside of the United States. The song was previously issued as a promotional single. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number 39 on the UK singles chart.

Promotional singles

[edit]

"Everything Remains Raw" was released as the first promotional single from The Coming on February 27, 1996, as the B-side to the album's lead single "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check. "Do My Thing" and "Abandon Ship" featuring Rampage the Last Boy Scout were released together as the second and third promotional singles from the album in 1996. "Do My Thing" would later be released as an official single from the album. "Ill Vibe" featuring the American rapper Q-Tip was released as the fourth and last promotional single from the album on June 25, 1996, as the B-side to the album's second single "It's a Party" featuring Zhané.

Critical reception

[edit]
Professional ratings
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStarStarStarHalf star[11]
Christgau's Consumer Guide(choice cut)[12]
Entertainment WeeklyB+[13]
MuzikStarStarStarStarStar[14]
QStarStarStar[15]
The Rolling Stone Album GuideStarStarStarHalf star[16]
The Source4/5[17]

The Coming was met with generally positive reviews upon its release. Daryl McIntosh of Albumism wrote that "the heart and soul of the album is found on songs where Busta doesn't have to stand out amongst a large group [...] like "Everything Remains Raw", [...] and "Do My Thing". [They] provide no distractions and illuminate how Busta's humor and knowledge can seep through a track while simultaneously highlighting his great rhyming ability." He added that "The Coming did everything you could ask for from a debut album," and went on to say that "The Coming was one of the all-time great debut LPs in hip-hop. Busta's first verse, first single, and first album all stand as testaments to the fact that he is one of hip-hop's elite artists and the perennial main event.[9]

Commercial performance

[edit]

Upon its release, the album charted at number 6 on the Billboard 200, alongside topping the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It would eventually be certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for equivalent sales of 1,000,000 units in the United States. By the end of 1996, the album was positioned at number 105 on the Billboard 200 and number 23 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. In Canada, although the album did not chart, it would eventually be certified Gold by Music Canada(MC) for equivalent sales of 50,000 units in the country. In Germany, the album charted at number 80 on the Offizielle Top 100. In Sweden, the album charted at number 39 on the Sverigetopplistan chart. In the United Kingdom, the album charted at number 48 on the UK Albums Chart.

Track listing

[edit]

Credits adapted from the album's liner notes.[4]

No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."The Coming (Intro)"
4:32
2."Do My Thing"
  • T. Smith
  • Spivey
  • DJ Scratch
4:00
3."Everything Remains Raw"
3:41
4."Abandon Ship" (featuring Rampage the Last Boy Scout)
6:02
5."Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check"
  • Busta Rhymes
  • R. Smith
4:31
6."It's a Party" (featuring Zhané)
  • Easy Mo Bee
5:53
7."Hot Fudge"
5:09
8."Ill Vibe" (featuring Q-Tip)
3:29
9."Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad" (featuring Jamal, Redman, Keith Murray, Rampage the Last Boy Scout, and Lord Have Mercy)
  • The Vibe Chemist Backspin
8:10
10."Still Shining"
2:57
11."Keep It Movin'" (featuring Dinco, Milo, and Charlie Brown)
  • The Ummah (Jay Dee)
7:32
12."The Finish Line"
  • T. Smith
  • Spivey
  • DJ Scratch
5:06
13."The End of the World (Outro)"
  • T. Smith
  • St. Hilaire
  • St. Hilaire
2:48
Total length:63:50

Note

[edit]

Sample credits

[edit]

Personnel

[edit]

Performance

[edit]
  • Busta Rhymes – lead vocals
  • Rampage the Last Boy Scout – guest vocals (tracks 4, 9), additional vocals (tracks 1, 5), skit vocals (track 11)
  • Zhané – guest vocals (track 6)
  • Q-Tip – guest vocals (track 8)
  • Jamal – guest vocals (track 9)
  • Redman – guest vocals (track 9)
  • Keith Murray – guest vocals (track 9)
  • Lord Have Mercy – guest vocals (track 9), additional vocals (track 1)
  • Dinco D – guest vocals (track 11 as part of the Leaders of the New School)
  • Milo – guest vocals (track 11 as part of the Leaders of the New School)
  • Charlie Brown – guest vocals (track 11 as part of the Leaders of the New School)
  • Spliff Star – skit vocals (track 13)
  • Wade Thoren – skit vocals (track 13)

Technical

[edit]
  • Tom Coyne – mastering
  • Rick St. Hilaire – mixing (tracks 1, 3, 5, 11, 13), recording (tracks 1, 3–5, 9, 11, 13)
  • Busta Rhymes – mixing, arrangement (tracks 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, 12)
  • DJ Scratch – mixing, arrangement (track 2, 12)
  • Easy Mo Bee – mixing, arrangement (tracks 3, 6)
  • Andy Blakelock – mixing (track 4), recording (track 6)
  • The Vibe Chemist Backspin – mixing, recording, arrangement (track 7)
  • Q-Tip – mixing, arrangement (track 8)
  • Jay Dee – mixing, arrangement (track 10)
  • Peter Darmi – mixing (track 10), recording (tracks 2, 8, 10, 12)
  • Mike Scielzi – recording assistance (tracks 2, 4, 6, 10, 12)
  • Vinnie Nicoletti – recording assistance (tracks 3–5, 9, 11)

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Canada (Music Canada)[25] Gold 50,000^
United States (RIAA)[26] Platinum 1,000,000^

^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The Coming

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Coming is the debut studio album by American rapper and record producer , released on March 26, 1996, through Flipmode Entertainment and . The project marks Rhymes' transition from his group to a solo career, showcasing his signature rapid-fire delivery, energetic flows, and humorous lyricism over a mix of hardcore hip-hop beats and more accessible, pop-influenced production. Featuring 13 tracks, the album highlights collaborations with artists from the like Redman, , and , as well as Q-Tip, , and members of the including Rampage and Lord Have Mercy. Produced by a roster of prominent figures including , , Q-Tip, (as part of ), Rashad Smith, and Backspin The Vibe Chemist, The Coming blends gritty East Coast rap elements with smoother R&B-infused hooks, reflecting the mid-1990s evolution of hip-hop toward broader commercial appeal. Key tracks like the lead single "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check," produced by , exemplify Rhymes' bombastic style and became his breakthrough hit, peaking at number eight on the and earning gold certification. Other notable releases include the single "It's a Party" featuring , which reached number 52 on the Hot 100, and the promotional single "Everything Remains Raw," underscoring the album's raw energy and posse-cut vibes. Commercially, The Coming debuted at number six on the Billboard 200 chart and topped the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, ultimately achieving platinum status from the RIAA for sales exceeding one million copies in the United States. Critically, it was praised for Rhymes' charismatic presence and the album's dynamic production, positioning him as a major force in 1990s hip-hop alongside contemporaries like The Notorious B.I.G. and Nas. The album's success laid the foundation for Rhymes' enduring career, influencing subsequent works and solidifying Flipmode Entertainment as a key hip-hop collective.

Background and development

Prior career and motivations

, born Trevor George Smith Jr., rose to prominence as a member of the hip-hop group , which he co-formed in the late 1980s with , Dinco D, and Cut Monitor Milo in . The group signed with and released their debut album, A Future Without a Past..., in 1991, followed by T.I.M.E. (The Inner Mind's Eye) in 1993. Their energetic style and appearances, including on A Tribe Called Quest's hit "," helped define Native Tongues-affiliated rap. However, escalating internal tensions, particularly between and over creative direction and leadership, culminated in the group's dissolution in 1993 during a live interview, where the conflict aired publicly. Post-breakup, quickly transitioned to solo endeavors, leveraging guest spots to showcase his dynamic flow and charisma. A pivotal moment came in 1994 with his verse on the remix of Craig Mack's "," produced by and featuring , , and Rampage; the track's success on introduced Busta to a broader audience and highlighted his star potential beyond the group. These appearances, amid label interest sparked by the group's end, positioned him for independence, leading to an offer for a solo deal with in 1994 by A&R executive Dante Ross, formalized in 1995 where he retained ties from the group's deal to launch his individual career. The drive for a solo debut was deeply personal, as Busta Rhymes had welcomed his first son, T'ziah Wood-Smith, in February 1993 with partner , motivating him to establish financial stability for his growing family through .

Recording sessions

The recording sessions for Busta Rhymes' debut solo album The Coming began in late 1994, following the offer of his solo deal with , and extended through 1995 across multiple U.S. cities. Initial work occurred in at Soundcastle Recording Studio while Rhymes filmed , with additional sessions at D.A.R.P. Studios in including collaboration with producer , and several locations, including , The Music Palace, and Soundtrack Studios. These dispersed sites reflected the collaborative nature of the project, as Rhymes traveled frequently for performances following the 1993 disbandment of . Key producers shaped the album's sound during this period, with serving as the primary collaborator on several tracks, including "Do My Thing" and "The Coming." Other notable contributions came from , who handled "Everything Remains Raw" and "It's a Party"; , responsible for "Still Shining"; and Rashad Smith, who produced the "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check." Guest features were integrated during the sessions, featuring Q-Tip on "Ill Vibe," providing vocals on "It's a Party," and affiliates like Rampage on "Abandon Ship." The process presented logistical challenges, particularly in synchronizing schedules with producers spread across cities amid Rhymes' demanding touring commitments, which delayed some recordings and required flexible travel arrangements.

Concept and artwork

Title origin and themes

The title The Coming symbolizes ' assertive emergence as a solo artist in hip-hop following the dissolution of his group , serving as a declaration of his independent arrival on the scene. This concept draws on prophetic imagery, evoking a sense of impending transformation and dominance in the rap landscape, while tying into broader apocalyptic motifs that Busta explored amid millennial anxieties. The album's overarching themes revolve around the rise of a distinctive new voice in rap, characterized by a fusion of high-energy bravado and humorous flair in his rapid-fire delivery, which set him apart from contemporaries. At its core, The Coming functions as a of transition, chronicling Busta's shift from to solo and his intent to establish lasting dominance in the . Themes of personal reflection emerge through subtle nods to the pressures of newfound fame and the grounding role of , underscoring Busta's prioritization of amid rising . The prophetic undertones extend to doomsday visions, positioning the album as an early entry in Busta's recurring exploration of end-times scenarios, reflecting cultural fears of global upheaval at the close of the . Overall, these elements coalesce to portray The Coming not merely as a debut, but as a bold artistic of reinvention and unyielding presence.

Cover art design

The cover art for The Coming was photographed by Dean Karr, with art direction by Alli Truch. It depicts in a dramatic, framed , his mouth stretched wide in a scream and fanned out dramatically behind him like a lion's mane, evoking raw intensity and commanding presence. This visual choice symbolizes the album's prophetic theme of arrival and disruption, with the open-mouthed scream representing an imminent force breaking into the hip-hop landscape.

Composition

Musical style and production

The Coming exemplifies East Coast hip-hop rooted in the tradition, characterized by hard-hitting drum patterns and gritty, street-level aesthetics that defined mid-1990s New York rap. The album incorporates samples and danceable rhythms, creating a dynamic that balances raw energy with infectious grooves, as heard in tracks that fuse traditional hip-hop breaks with upbeat, party-oriented elements. Production techniques emphasize innovative layering, including heavy use of scratches by , which add a turntablist flair and rhythmic texture throughout the project. Layered percussion builds depth in the beats, while soulful loops—such as J Dilla's contributions on "Still Shining"—infuse tracks with warm, sample-driven introspection, drawing from and sources for a polished yet underground feel. These methods highlight a shift toward more experimental beat-making in East Coast production, blending classic breakbeats with subtle melodic enhancements. The album draws heavily from the New York rap scene, reflecting its vibrant, competitive energy through contrasting moods: high-octane party anthems like "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check" drive the dancefloor with buoyant hooks, while more contemplative cuts such as "Everything Remains Raw" deliver stark, minimalism. This duality captures the era's evolution from hardcore grit to crossover appeal, influenced by the city's diverse hip-hop ecosystem. Spanning 13 tracks with a total runtime of 63:50, The Coming structures its sound around seamless transitions between explosive choruses and dense, rhythmic verses, maintaining momentum across its length without filler. Guest production, notably Easy Mo Bee's jazz-infused arrangements on the title track, adds sophisticated horn and elements, elevating the album's sonic palette with subtle R&B undertones. Specific samples, such as Galt MacDermot's from "Space" in "Woo-Hah!!," underscore the project's reliance on crate-digging for its foundational grooves.

Lyrical content and structure

Busta Rhymes' lyrical approach on The Coming is characterized by his signature rapid-fire delivery, incorporating and exaggerated, energetic phrasing that draws from toasting traditions. This style, marked by manic angularity and dynamic escalation, allows him to navigate beats with frenetic precision, often employing playful ad-libs like "Rahrr Rahrrr!" and "Woo Hah!!" to inject humor and into his boasts. For instance, in "Everything Remains Raw," his verses feature intricate such as "Yo (yo), I burn your food like / Run up in your crib like my name was SEARCH WARRANTS!", blending boastful aggression with comedic flair to establish his solo persona. Thematically, the album explores personal growth, celebratory escapism, and unfiltered bravado, reflecting Busta's transition to independence. Tracks like "Keep It Movin'" emphasize resilience and forward momentum, reuniting him with former members and Dinco D for a reflective nod to his roots while asserting solo evolution. Party anthems such as "It's a Party," featuring , capture high-energy vibes with smooth R&B-infused hooks that prioritize communal joy over introspection. Meanwhile, songs like "Everything Remains Raw" deliver raw aggression through power declarations and confrontational flows, underscoring Busta's commanding presence. Structurally, the favor engaging, cinematic elements to enhance flow, including call-and-response hooks that mimic live energy and guest verses for dynamic contrast. The album opens with the skit-like "Intro," setting a dramatic tone akin to a film reel, while tracks like "Ill Vibe" integrate Q-Tip's contributions to layer contrasting cadences over shared themes. This solo emphasis marks a shift from the ensemble dynamics of his days, prioritizing Busta's individual charisma and extended s over group interplay. Critics have highlighted the density of his , noting internal rhymes and rhythmic in cuts like "Do My Thing," where verses build through repetitive, hypnotic phrasing to reinforce themes of self-assurance.

Release and promotion

Commercial singles

The lead single from The Coming, "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check", was released in January 1996 by . It peaked at number 8 on the , number 11 on the chart, and number 2 on the chart. The single was available in formats including 12-inch vinyl, CD, and cassette, featuring B-sides such as the "World Wide Remix" and instrumental versions. Its , directed by , showcased high-energy choreography and colorful visuals, receiving heavy rotation on and to promote Busta Rhymes' dynamic stage presence. The second single, "It's a Party" featuring , followed in June 1996. It reached number 52 on the , number 18 on the chart, and number 5 on the chart. Released on 12-inch vinyl, CD, and cassette, the single included remix versions like the "Soul Inside Radio Mix" as B-sides to appeal to radio and club audiences. Promotion emphasized its upbeat, collaborative vibe through an official music video that highlighted party scenes and featured , airing frequently on and . "Do My Thing" was issued as the third commercial single in 1997. It peaked at number 39 on the UK Singles Chart. Available on 12-inch vinyl, CD, and cassette with B-sides including remixes by , the single targeted club play through its energetic production and dance-oriented tracks. Promotional efforts focused on radio and DJ rotations rather than a major video push, aligning with its emphasis on nightlife and performance energy broadcast on .
SingleRelease DateBillboard Hot 100 PeakHot Rap Songs PeakUK Singles Chart Peak
"Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check"January 1996#8#2-
"It's a Party" (feat. )June 1996#52#5-
"Do My Thing"1997Did not chart-#39

Promotional singles

To generate buzz for Busta Rhymes' debut album The Coming, issued several non-commercial promotional singles targeted at DJs and radio programmers in the hip-hop and urban music scenes. These releases emphasized club-friendly formats and clean edits suitable for , helping to introduce Busta's rapid-fire flow and energetic style to tastemakers before the album's March 26, 1996, street date. A key promotional single was the 12-inch vinyl release of "Do My Thing / Abandon Ship" in 1996, pressed exclusively for DJ use and featuring the LP versions (clean), DJ Scratch remixes (clean and instrumental), and acappella versions of both tracks. Distributed as a white-label promo, it showcased cuts from the album without accompanying music videos, allowing DJs to spin the high-energy posse track "Abandon Ship" (featuring Rampage) and the boastful opener "Do My Thing" in clubs to gauge audience response. Another significant promo was the 12-inch vinyl for "It's a " (featuring ) in 1996, which included the LP version (clean), AllStar Remix (featuring , clean), The Ummah Remix (clean and instrumental), and acappella takes, alongside bonus promo cuts like "Ill Vibe" (featuring Q-Tip). This release, also in white-label format for DJs, highlighted the album's collaborative R&B-rap crossover appeal and was geared toward urban radio stations for introductory spins. These efforts primarily utilized vinyl and cassette formats to facilitate club mixes and radio rotations, fostering pre-album excitement without retail availability.

Marketing campaigns and reissues

The release of The Coming in 1996 was supported by marketing efforts that highlighted ' affiliation with Flipmode Entertainment, his newly established label imprint under , which featured contributions from the on tracks like "It's a Party." Promotional strategies emphasized Busta's high-energy persona and rapid-fire delivery, as seen in magazine advertisements and product descriptions that positioned the album as an "explosive" showcase of his charisma. Busta made key television appearances, including on , where he performed and discussed his transition to a solo artist, building anticipation ahead of the album's launch. Tour support for the album included Busta's participation in the inaugural Smokin' Grooves Tour in summer 1996, a multi-act hip-hop package that featured live performances of singles like "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check" alongside artists such as The Fugees, , and . These shows underscored the album's party-oriented vibe and helped solidify Busta's stage presence as a central promotional element. In celebration of the album's 25th anniversary, a digital edition was released on April 16, 2021, via Rhino Records in partnership with Elektra and . This 36-track collection included a newly remastered version of the original 13 songs, previously unreleased instrumental versions of each track, and rare remixes such as "Everything Remains Raw (Flipmode Mentality )" and "The Coming (Shadowz )." It also featured a digital booklet with extensive by hip-hop historian Dan Charnas, providing context on the album's creation and impact. A edition 2xLP vinyl reissue on metallic silver with red effect colored vinyl was released in 2025 by Get On Down in partnership with Elektra, to 1000 copies. The 2021 reissue was promoted through digital streaming platforms, with the remastered tracks made available on services like , where they were integrated into curated spotlighting Busta's early career milestones and hip-hop classics. This effort aimed to reintroduce the to newer audiences via algorithmic recommendations and editorial features. Sales tie-ins for the original 1996 release included promotional merchandise such as limited-edition Flipmode Squad T-shirts tied to the album rollout, distributed to fans and media to amplify brand visibility.

Reception

Initial critical reviews

Upon its release in 1996, The Coming garnered generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised Busta Rhymes' dynamic presence and energetic delivery as a solo artist transitioning from his Leaders of the New School days. The Source magazine awarded the album 4 out of 5 mics in its May 1996 issue, lauding the "ceaseless, melodious, thumping music" and its potential to challenge lesser MCs, while highlighting Busta's humor, inventive flow, and charismatic persona throughout tracks like "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check" and "Everything Remains Raw." Vibe magazine offered a favorable assessment in a contemporary feature, emphasizing Busta's explosive charisma and ability to command attention with his animated style and rapid-fire rhymes. However, not all responses were unqualified praise; of selected only the "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check" as a choice cut, implying the full album suffered from inconsistency and weaker filler tracks that diluted its strengths. Despite these mixed elements, the initial consensus positioned The Coming as a strong introduction to as a leading East Coast rap voice, effectively elevating his profile beyond group affiliations with its blend of humor, technical skill, and party-ready anthems. The album's impact was further affirmed by a for Best R&B/Soul or Rap Album of the Year at the 1997 .

Retrospective assessments

In the years following its release, The Coming has been reevaluated by critics as a pivotal debut that showcased ' distinctive energy and laid the groundwork for his enduring presence in hip-hop. A retrospective in The Ringer highlighted the album's role in transforming Busta from a group member in into a solo force, praising its polyrhythmic flows reminiscent of improvisers like and its production that blended elements with innovative beats from producers like . Similarly, HHV Mag's revisit commended Busta's manic delivery and flexible verse meter, drawing parallels to Jamaican toasting styles that were uncommon in mid-1990s American hip-hop, positioning the album as a bridge between hardcore rap and more exuberant expressions. Modern aggregate assessments reflect this appreciation, with sites like Album of the Year compiling critic scores around 67/100 based on updated reviews, while user enthusiasm pushes averages higher at 77/100, underscoring its lasting appeal as an energetic party album. has not issued a formal , but contemporaneous influences noted in later coverage emphasize its enduring vibe. A 2021 Medium analysis echoed this by lauding the playful, stretched end rhymes on tracks like "The Coming," which injected fun into an era dominated by gritty narratives. The album's legacy extends to its influence on fast-rap techniques in hip-hop, where Busta's rapid, explosive delivery inspired artists adopting high-speed flows and theatrical personas, as seen in the genre's shift toward more dynamic, performance-oriented styles. Reissues, including the 2021 25th Anniversary Edition with remastered tracks and unreleased instrumentals, have amplified this view, with reviews highlighting timeless party anthems like "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check" for their infectious energy. Critics have noted its foundational impact, with The Ringer stating, "The Coming remains timeless, preserving hip-hop’s integrity while carving Busta’s unique voice into the pantheon," and HHV Mag adding that Busta's style formed "a combination that is as surprising as it is compelling." Culturally, The Coming is often referenced in discussions of rap's transition from East Coast gangsta influences to more vibrant, multicultural expressions, incorporating roots and humor that prefigured the playful bombast of mainstream hip-hop. A 2021 Medium piece reinforced this by crediting its fire-breathing style with influencing later high-energy rappers like and , solidifying Busta's explosive persona as a template for genre innovation.

Commercial performance

Chart positions

The Coming achieved notable success on several major music charts, particularly in the United States, where it marked ' breakthrough as a solo artist. The album debuted on the at number 6 on April 13, 1996, following the momentum from its "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check," which had already gained significant airplay and sales. It simultaneously topped the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart for one week that same date, underscoring its strong appeal within the genre. The release's chart trajectory reflected the single's impact, with "Woo-Hah!!" propelling initial visibility before sustained radio and retail support aided its climb. Internationally, the album saw more modest placements. In the , The Coming peaked at number 48 on the and spent 7 weeks in the Top 100. In , it reached number 47 on the RPM Top Albums chart. For its year-end performance, the album ranked at number 105 on the 1996 year-end chart, demonstrating solid longevity driven by ongoing single promotion.
Chart (1996)Peak Position
US Billboard 2006
1
Canadian RPM Top Albums47
48

Sales certifications

In the United States, The Coming was certified Gold by the (RIAA) on January 13, 1999, indicating shipments of 500,000 units.
CountryCertifying BodyCertificationCertified UnitsDate
RIAA500,000January 13, 1999
As a debut , The Coming performed strongly in certifications, largely propelled by the commercial success of its "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check."

Track listing and credits

Standard track listing

The standard track listing for the original 1996 edition of The Coming, Busta Rhymes' debut studio , consists of 13 tracks with a total runtime of 63 minutes and 51 seconds. Released primarily on CD and vinyl through , the edition defines the standard version, with no significant regional variations in track order or content for the initial release. All tracks were written by (credited as Trevor Smith Jr.), frequently in collaboration with co-writers and producers such as Rashad Smith, (as part of ), and . The 2021 25th anniversary reissue remasters these tracks and appends bonus material including instrumentals, remixes, and previously unreleased songs, but preserves the original sequence as the core standard listing.
No.TitleDurationFeatured artist(s)
1"The Coming" (intro)4:32—
2"Do My Thing"4:00—
3"Everything Remains Raw"3:41—
4"Abandon Ship"6:02Rampage the Last Boy Scout
5"Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check"4:31—
6"It's a Party"5:22
7"Hot Fudge"5:09—
8"Ill Vibe"3:35Q-Tip
9"Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad"8:18Redman, , Jamal
10"Still Shining"2:59—
11"Keep It Movin'"4:29
12"The Finish Line"4:02—
13"The End of the World" (outro)2:49—

Sample credits

The album The Coming incorporates numerous samples and interpolations from , , and earlier hip-hop tracks, reflecting the production style of mid-1990s East Coast rap. All samples were cleared through , the album's distributor, ensuring royalties were paid to original artists and composers as detailed in the . No notable uncleared samples were used, avoiding legal risks common in the era. The production team, including , , and , drew from over 10 sources across the tracks to create layered beats. Key samples include those in the lead single "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check," which features the horn riff from "Space" by Galt MacDermot (1969) and vocal elements from "8th Wonder" by Sugarhill Gang (1981), alongside a children's rhyme interpolation of "Eenie, Meenie, Miny, Moe" (traditional folk, circa 1815). In "It's a Party" (featuring Zhané), the track samples "Fun" by Brick (1977) and "Hydra" by Grover Washington, Jr. (1974), with guest vocals enhancing the party anthem vibe. "Still Shining," produced by J Dilla, samples "Where Is Love?" by Cal Tjader (1973) and interpolates "Scenario (Remix)" by A Tribe Called Quest feat. Leaders of the New School & Kid Hood (1992), contributing to its soulful, introspective feel. Other notable samples across the album encompass "Dizzy" by (1969) in "Ill Vibe" (featuring Q-Tip), the atmospheric strings from "Star of India Glows" by Phillip Lambro (1975) in "Everything Remains Raw," and multiple elements in the intro track, such as "Goin' Down" by (1995) and "Slide for Life" from the Outbreak soundtrack by (1995). These credits appear in the album's liner notes, attributing publishing to the originals and underscoring Elektra's role in securing permissions.
TrackSample/Interpolation SourceOriginal Artist (Year)
The Coming (Intro)"Goin' Down"Ol' Dirty Bastard (1995)
The Coming (Intro)"Slide for Life"James Newton Howard (1995)
The Coming (Intro)"Bang Zoom (Let's Go-Go)"The Real Roxanne (1986)
Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check"Space"Galt MacDermot (1969)
Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check"8th Wonder"Sugarhill Gang (1981)
It's a Party"Fun"Brick (1977)
It's a Party"Hydra"Grover Washington, Jr. (1974)
Everything Remains Raw"Star of India Glows"Phillip Lambro (1975)
Ill Vibe"Dizzy"Hugo Montenegro (1969)
Still Shining"Where Is Love?"Cal Tjader (1973)
Still Shining"Scenario (Remix)" (interpolation)A Tribe Called Quest feat. Leaders of the New School & Kid Hood (1992)
Do My Thing"Synthetic Substitution"Melvin Bliss (1973)
Abandon Ship"I Put a Spell on You"Screamin' Jay Hawkins (1956)

Personnel

Busta Rhymes performed lead vocals on all tracks of The Coming. Guest performers include Rampage the Last Boy Scout on "Abandon Ship" and "Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad," Q-Tip on "Ill Vibe," and Lord Have Mercy on "Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad." Additional vocal contributions came from providing background vocals on "It's a Party" and the (including , ) delivering chorus vocals on multiple tracks like "Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad." affiliates such as Redman, , and Jamal appeared on "Flipmode Squad Meets Def Squad," while (Charlie Brown, Dinco D, Milo) feature on "Keep It Movin'." The intro track features various voiceovers including .

Production and Technical Staff

Busta Rhymes also served as alongside Rick Posada. Key producers included , Rashad Smith, , , Rick St. Hilaire, The Vibe Chemist (Backspin), and himself on select tracks. Mixing was handled by , while Tom Coyne mastered the album at Sterling Sound. Assistant engineering was provided by Carlton "Carl B" Brown, among others.

Art and Design

Art direction and packaging design were led by .

References

  1. https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-coming/268497964
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  3. https://musicbrainz.org/release-group/fd3633d9-5c56-3016-97cd-b232a4a6d576
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