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Trap Lord
Studio album by
ReleasedAugust 20, 2013
Recorded2012–13
Genre
Length51:08
Label
Producer
ASAP Ferg chronology
Trap Lord
(2013)
Ferg Forever
(2014)
Singles from Trap Lord
  1. "Work REMIX"
    Released: May 14, 2013
  2. "Shabba"
    Released: July 16, 2013
  3. "Hood Pope"
    Released: July 30, 2013

Trap Lord is the debut studio album by American rapper ASAP Ferg. The album was released on August 20, 2013, by ASAP Worldwide, Polo Grounds Music, and RCA Records. The album features guest appearances from ASAP Rocky, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, French Montana, Trinidad James, Schoolboy Q, Waka Flocka Flame, Aston Matthews, B-Real and Onyx.

The album was supported by three singles; the remix to "Work" which featured ASAP Rocky, Schoolboy Q, Trinidad James and French Montana, the album's most commercially successful single "Shabba" featuring ASAP Rocky, and "Hood Pope". It was met with generally positive reviews from music critics, and debuted at number nine on the Billboard 200.

Background

[edit]

The album was originally slated to be released as a mixtape in February 2013.[1] In January 2013, during an interview with XXL, ASAP Ferg explained the significance of the album title, saying: "I feel like it's not just me that represents Trap Lord. I feel like A$AP Rocky is a Trap Lord. I feel like Nast is a Trap Lord. Wale just posted a picture on his Instagram wearing a Trap Lord sweatshirt. DJ Enuff be sending me pictures of his sons wearing Trap Lord stuff. You gonna see a lot of different new faces that represent the brand—not only the brand, but where we come from. A Trap Lord is basically the struggle to do better. It's almost like the theme of Always Strive And Prosper (A$AP). Trap don't necessarily mean you selling drugs. You could be selling clothes, watches, fake watches, gold teeth, hats—anything. You just trapping. And you a Lord of it."[1] He also explained when he would be releasing the album, saying: "I'm looking at the end of February, early March. This is my first demo I'm ever putting out. I never even put out a demo for the labels to hear. This is the first shit I'm even putting together with numbers, with songs. So I wanna make sure it's something special, I'm giving it my all. That's why it's kind of taking long. But trust me, when it comes out, it's gonna be well worth it."[1]

He also explained what it was like working on the album, saying: "It's fun, because I've been piecing together a team that I think I'm gonna be with for a long time as far as mixing, recording, young producers that you probably never even heard of. Sonically, it's gonna be a monster. Straight movie shit. You ain't hearing this shit nowhere—nobody has this sound. After this mixtape drop, you gonna hear everybody sound change. They gonna wanna know who's working on my project 'cause it's gonna sound that crazy. The best part is teaming up with these young rocket scientists that know what they doing. They rebels against anything that's in cycle; they wanna go against the grain and make history. That's all I'm about, is making history. I'm tired of the same hip-hop shit. It's getting corny. All of this jumping around, looking stupid. I hate the term "real hip-hop," but it's real. Nobody can say my shit ain't hip-hop, because I'm being innovative and I'm bringing something new to the table."[1]

On June 3, 2013, while performing at Summer Jam, ASAP Ferg announced Trap Lord would be released as an album on August 20, 2013.[2] In June 2013, during an interview with HipHopDX, ASAP Ferg described the album, saying: "It's going to be all digital...all Internet-based, and I'm definitely excited. This is the first piece of work I've ever put together, like ever. I never attempted to put a mixtape together; I never attempted to put an album together; I never thought I was going to be a rapper. This is the first project I've worked on. I kind of went extra out of my way to make sure it's the best, because I don't know...all I know is go hard, and all I know is how to win. I don't want to be considered weak or a loser. I think it's going to make history."[3] In July 2013, during an interview with MTV, ASAP Ferg spoke about the features on the album, saying: "I got some of the best of the best on there. It just got serious and more serious because my features are like Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. I got Onyx on the same song as B-Real, It's a kind of legendary piece of work, it's like art. You can't really give good art away for nothing."[4] On July 25, 2013, the album cover was released.[5] On July 28, 2013, the final track listing was revealed, revealing 13 tracks and guest appearances on the album from ASAP Rocky, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Maad Moiselle, French Montana, Trinidad James, Schoolboy Q, Waka Flocka Flame, B-Real, Onyx and Aston Matthews.[6]

Singles

[edit]

On August 20, 2012, Ferg released his commercial debut single "Work".[7] On January 14, 2013, the music video for "Work" was released.[8] "Work" had peaked at number 100 on the US Billboard Hot 100. "Work" was officially remixed, featuring guest verses from fellow American rappers French Montana, Trinidad James, Schoolboy Q and ASAP Rocky; it was later released on May 14, 2013, the remix was released as the album's first official single.[9] On May 14, 2013, the music video for the "Work" (Remix), was also released.[10] On July 16, 2013, the album's second single "Shabba", featuring ASAP Rocky was released.[11] On July 15, 2013, the music video for "Shabba" featuring ASAP Rocky was released.[12] On July 30, 2013, the third single "Hood Pope" was released along with the pre-order of the album.[13] On November 22, 2013, the "Shabba" (Remix) featuring Shabba Ranks, Migos and Busta Rhymes was released.[14] On December 31, 2013, the music video was released for "Hood Pope".[15] On March 7, 2014, the music video was released for "Let It Go".[16]

Critical reception

[edit]
Professional ratings
Aggregate scores
SourceRating
Metacritic72/100[17]
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStarStarStar[18]
Consequence of SoundStarStarStarHalf star[19]
Exclaim!7/10[20]
FactStarStarStarHalf star[21]
NowStarStarStar[22]
Pitchfork7.5/10[23]
PopMatters7/10[24]
Rolling StoneStarStarStar[25]
Spin7/10[26]
XXLStarStarStar (L)[27]

Trap Lord was met with generally positive reviews from music critics. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from critics, the album received an average score of 72, which indicates "generally favorable reviews", based on 18 reviews.[17] Lauren Martin of Fact gave the album three-and-a-half stars out of five, saying "Whilst Earl may have the lyrical indie corner down with Doris, Trap Lord posits Ferg as the more ambiguous of the two, once again shifting the goal-posts of what rap can achieve in 2013 with its endearing, street-rap-goes-weird mindset."[21] Dan Buyanovsky of XXL gave the album an L, saying "There are a few shining moments on Trap Lord, like the swaying "Hood Pope," which finds Ferg crooning about finding his purpose in bleak surroundings, and "Cocaine Castle," a ruminating, meandering ode to the dark side of drug excess. For a guy who's able to craft such challenging songs, it's a shame to see him waste his talent on a batch of hood anthems, but maybe that's all it takes to become a Trap Lord. On the album's intro, A$AP Mob's leader A$AP Yams proclaims, "The limbs never been so relaxed, ever." You can't help but wonder if Ferg hadn't been so relaxed making Trap Lord, it might've come out a much stronger work."[27] Anthony Asencio of HipHopDX gave the album three-and-a-half stars out of five, saying "Overall, A$AP Ferg's Trap Lord, is a solid, if an sometimes-uninspired effort. It occupies that zone between the mindless "turn up" music and projects that have gotten a praise for being entertaining enough to at least partially negate a desire for more depth. Ferg is at his best on the handful of songs that reach for something more than male bravado and flossing. But, in the end, listeners don't get enough of those or his agile rhyme cadences to push this into the realm of an upper-echelon album."[28]

David Jeffries of AllMusic gave the album four out of five stars, saying "With the deep, dark, and delicious Trap Lord, A$AP Ferg enters the A$AP Mob's immersive murder music hall of fame, having crafted an album as out there and attractive as A$AP Rocky's official debut Long.Live.A$AP. Big difference here is that while Rocky fits in perfectly with kinetic and weird folks like Danny Brown, Ferg comes off as a tough, cold Bun B or even Notorious B.I.G.-type character, making music that should only be listened to once night falls and cooking up stern, infectious thug anthems like the posse cut "Work."[18] Phillip Mlynar of Spin gave the album a seven out of ten, saying "There's nothing on Trap Lord to suggest Ferg will follow A$AP Rocky onto the pop charts, but it's a rewardingly dark and grounded listen. With its rugged, ribald appeal, it's the sort of album that you'd imagine Big himself happily enjoying. Just don't tell Puff."[26] Julia LeConte of Now gave the album three out of five stars, saying "Trap Lord's production is unrelenting in its gothic intensity. The woozy party-gone-wrong aesthetic of Rocky is back, but Ferg's sound is distinctly his, and, yes, trappy. His deep, smooth singing voice serves him well on Future-like rap-singing hybrids, but he lacks any of that artist's levity."[22]

Mike Powell of Rolling Stone gave the album three out of five stars, saying "This Harlem-bred MC is more an interior designer than a master carpenter, a rapper whose real gift isn't rapping but curating sound. No surprise coming from a member of the A$AP Mob crew, whose fashion choices get as much attention as their music. Slow, silky and menacing, with twists of eccentricity, his debut is a finely constructed mood piece—say it ties the room together."[25] Francesca D'Arcy-Orga of PopMatters gave the album a seven out of ten, saying "Trap Lord won't be for everyone, but it's worth more than one listen, because beneath the trap beats and somewhat cliché storyline is a debut album that's exciting, different, and worth a spot on the shelf."[24] Aaron Matthews of Exclaim! gave the album a seven out of ten, saying "In contrast to comrade Rocky's music, Trap Lord succeeds largely despite its production, fuelled by Ferg's oddball enthusiasm and sincerity. You don't have to accept the Trap Lord as your saviour, but you'll have more fun if you do."[20] Paul Cantor Vibe gave the album a positive review, saying "Trap Lord is an underground rap album for listeners reared on a decade of 808s and melodic variations of John Carpenter's "Halloween" melody. It's the sound of old New York gracefully mixing with the new New York. And it's really good, basically."[29]

Accolades

[edit]

Trap Lord was named the eighth best album of 2013 by Complex. They commented saying, "it's not the lyrics that make Ferg worth listening to. It's his delivery that keeps you enthralled. That and his beats. A dark morass of sticky, nasty smoke-out funk."[30] Pitchfork placed Trap Lord on their Albums of the Year: Honorable Mention list.[31] Trap Lord was named the ninth-best hip hop album of 2013 by Rolling Stone. They elaborated saying, "The Mob wingman delivered two of New York's biggest street heaters this year with "Work" and "Shabba"; the rest of Trap Lord expanded the crew's sonic reference points, landing somewhere between Bone Thugs for the Tumblr sect (check his mournful croning on "Hood Pope") and an SNL parody of a Nineties-era Bad Boy compilation."[32]

Commercial performance

[edit]

The album debuted at number 9 on the Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 32,000 copies in the United States.[33] In its second week, the album sold 9,000 more copies.[34] In its third week, the album sold 9,000 more copies bringing its total album sales to 46,000 in the United States.[35] On November 8, 2019, the album was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for shipments of 500,000 units in the United States.[36][37]

Track listing

[edit]
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."Let It Go"
  • Razjah
4:42
2."Shabba" (featuring ASAP Rocky)
  • Brown
  • Curtis Samuel
  • Matthew Washington
  • Rakim Mayers
  • Herschell Gordon Lewis
Snugsworth4:35
3."Lord" (featuring Bone Thugs-n-Harmony)5:17
4."Hood Pope"
  • Brown
  • Jeff Washington
  • Tashfiqur Patwary
  • Chris Basham
VERYRVRE3:30
5."Fergivicious"
  • Brown
  • Mostafa Robaee
Versa Beatz3:50
6."4:02"
  • Brown
  • Frank Parra
Frankie P3:35
7."Dump Dump"
  • Brown
  • Patricio Contreras
  • A$AP P on the Boards
3:34
8."Work REMIX" (featuring ASAP Rocky, French Montana, Trinidad James & Schoolboy Q)Chinza//Fly4:43
9."Didn't Wanna Do That"
  • Brown
  • Parra
  • Luis Gonzalez
  • Toledano Salinas
Frankie P2:44
10."Murda Something" (featuring Waka Flocka Flame)3:19
11."Make a Scene" (featuring Maad Moiselle)
  • Brown
  • Parra
Frankie P2:57
12."Fuck Out My Face" (featuring B-Real, Onyx & Aston Matthews)Frankie P3:56
13."Cocaine Castle"
  • Brown
  • Spencer Sleyon
  • High Class Filth
4:26
Total length:51:08

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Canada (Music Canada)[44] Gold 40,000
United States (RIAA)[36] Gold 500,000

Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Trap Lord is the debut studio album by American rapper AAPFerg,releasedonAugust20,2013,bythelabelsASAPWorldwide,[PoloGroundsMusic](/page/PoloGroundsMusic),and[RCARecords](/page/RCARecords).[](https://www.discogs.com/release/4835024AAPFergTrapLord)Theprojectconsistsof13tracksandfeaturesguestappearancesfromartistsincludingAAP Ferg, released on August 20, 2013, by the labels ASAP Worldwide, [Polo Grounds Music](/page/Polo_Grounds_Music), and [RCA Records](/page/RCA_Records).[](https://www.discogs.com/release/4835024-AAP-Ferg-Trap-Lord) The project consists of 13 tracks and features guest appearances from artists including AAP Rocky, , , , , and . It was primarily produced by a team comprising Snugsworth, HighDefRazjah, VERYRVRE, and others, blending trap-influenced beats with elements of hardcore hip hop and New York rap traditions. The album's themes revolve around street life, personal mythology, violence, and loss, often delivered through Ferg's versatile flows that mix , , and aggressive personas like "Fergenstein." Standout tracks include the dancehall-inspired "Shabba" featuring A$AP Rocky, the introspective "Hood Pope," and the high-energy "Work ()" with multiple guests, which served as a (the original version of which peaked at number 100 on the ). Upon release, Trap Lord received generally positive critical reception for its bold production and Ferg's charismatic delivery, though some reviewers noted uneven pacing and underdeveloped ideas in certain tracks. awarded it a 7.5 out of 10, praising its "dark-tinted" sound and muscular energy while critiquing scatterbrained moments like "Fergivicious." Commercially, it debuted at number 9 on the chart, selling 31,830 copies in its first week, and has since accumulated over 540,000 total units sold in the United States as of 2023. Ferg's Trap Lord clothing line, which he founded in late , continues as a of his Harlem-rooted aesthetic.

Background and development

Prior projects

A$AP Ferg, born Darold Durard Brown Ferguson Jr., initially gained recognition in Harlem's creative scene through his work in , influenced by his father who ran a clothing line called Ferg Apparel and printed apparel for artists like Puff Daddy. Before pursuing music full-time, Ferg designed and sold custom belts and painted jeans, collaborating with local designers and even supplying accessories to Dipset members, which helped build his early profile in New York's hip-hop and circles. In 2011, Ferg joined the AAPMobcollectiveafterhighschoolfriendAAP Mob collective after high school friend AAP Rocky encouraged him to channel his creative energy into rapping, marking his transition from fashion to music within the group. His earliest musical contributions included a feature on AAPRockys2011[mixtape](/page/Mixtape)LIVE.LOVE.AAP Rocky's 2011 [mixtape](/page/Mixtape) *LIVE.LOVE.AAP*, notably on the track "Kissin' Pink," which showcased his energetic delivery alongside the collective's emerging sound. Ferg's breakthrough came in 2012 with the release of the A$AP Mob's debut mixtape Lords Never Worry on August 28, hosted by DJ Ill Will and DJ Rockstar, where his debut single "Work"—produced by Chinza and Fly—served as a standout track that introduced his trap-influenced, high-energy style. The song quickly gained viral traction through platforms like , establishing Ferg as a key voice in the Mob and leading to its official single release in October 2012. The success of "Work," which peaked at number 100 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2013, propelled Ferg's solo career, culminating in his signing to Polo Grounds Music and RCA Records in January 2013 and paving the way for his debut album.

Recording and production

In early 2013, AAPFergannouncedTrapLordasaprojectinitiallyconceivedasamixtape(hisdebutsolorelease),butitwassoonupgradedtohisdebutstudioalbumduetostronglabelsupportfromPoloGroundsMusicandRCARecords,whichrecognizeditscommercialviabilityfollowingthebuzzfromhispriorwork.[](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/apfergstraplordgetsnewreleasedategoesfrommixtapetoproperalbumrelease)[](https://www.gq.com/story/asapfergtraplord)Themomentumfrom"Work"ontheAAP Ferg announced *Trap Lord* as a project initially conceived as a mixtape (his debut solo release), but it was soon upgraded to his debut studio album due to strong label support from Polo Grounds Music and RCA Records, which recognized its commercial viability following the buzz from his prior work.[](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/ap_fergs_trap_lord_gets_new_release_date_goes_from_mixtape_to_proper_album_release)[](https://www.gq.com/story/asap-ferg-trap-lord) The momentum from "Work" on the AAP Mob's Lords Never Worry (2012) provided the foundation for this shift, allowing Ferg to aim for a more polished retail release. Recording sessions for Trap Lord primarily occurred throughout 2013 at various studios in , where Ferg immersed himself in the process for much of the year, refining tracks amid the AAPMobsrisingprofile.[](https://www.spin.com/2013/07/asapfergtraplordalbuminterview/)ExecutiveproductionwasoverseenbyAAP Mob's rising profile.[](https://www.spin.com/2013/07/asap-ferg-trap-lord-album-interview/) Executive production was overseen by AAP Ferg (Darold Brown), AAPRocky(RakimMayers),AAP Rocky (Rakim Mayers), AAP Yams (Steven Rodriguez), Bryan Leach of , and Geno Sims, ensuring a cohesive vision that balanced the crew's creative input with professional oversight. The production team featured key contributors such as P on the Boards, Snugsworth, Frankie P, Crystal Caines, and Chinza & Fly, who crafted beats rooted in trap aesthetics—characterized by heavy 808s and hi-hats—but infused with experimental twists like unconventional samples and atmospheric layers to distinguish the sound. One standout anecdote from the sessions involved a collaboration with on the track "Lord," where Ferg hosted the group in the studio for an session in March 2013, incorporating their rapid, melodic flows over a trap backdrop to create a hybrid East Coast-meets-Midwest vibe. This approach highlighted Ferg's intent to evolve beyond standard trap formulas while honoring influences from hip-hop's diverse lineages.

Musical content

Style and genre

Trap Lord is primarily a hip-hop album rooted in the trap genre, characterized by heavy 808 bass lines, rapid hi-hats, and dense percussion layers that contribute to its energetic and street-oriented atmosphere. The production features a stormy, muscular texture that underscores the album's aggressive and punishing vibe, designed for clubs and urban environments. The album incorporates diverse influences, blending trap with elements, as evident in the Patois-infused track "Shabba," which pays homage to Jamaican dancehall legend . Old-school hip-hop nods appear in "Lord," featuring and evoking Cleveland's melodic rap style alongside broader Death Row-era menace and New York radio influences. Spanning 13 tracks and running 51:08, Trap Lord maintains high-energy pacing throughout, delivering an odd twist on traditional trap through Ferg's shape-shifting, animated flows that shift rapidly between speeds and personas for a thrilling effect. This approach infuses the with humor and eccentricity, setting it apart from more formulaic trap releases. While sharing the A$AP Mob's collective aesthetic of swag mixed with Southern trap elements, Trap Lord distinguishes itself with Ferg's raw, unpolished flair, prioritizing visceral, club-ready anthems over refined boom-bap structures.

Lyrical themes

The lyrical content of Trap Lord centers on the trap lifestyle, vividly depicting dealing, accumulation, and unyielding pride through raw, street-level narratives. Ferg frequently references the grind of ""— for sales—as a pathway to opulence, as seen in "Dump Dump," where he boasts about luxury cars, designer clothes, and sexual dominance amid the hustle, portraying success as both a shield and a spoil of 's unforgiving environment. This pride in his roots manifests in recurring nods to 's block culture, framing the neighborhood as a crucible that forges resilience and identity, with Ferg positioning himself as its unapologetic ambassador. Personal vulnerability punctuates these bravado-filled tales, blending introspection with the aggression of street survival. In "Didn’t Wanna Do That," Ferg recounts a gone awry, grappling with the moral weight of violence and its aftermath, including a "body on ice," which humanizes the trap's toll without softening his edge. Similarly, "Cocaine Castle" exposes the grim realities of crack houses—unprotected , , and familial disruption—offering a cautionary lens on the lifestyle's seductive dangers, drawn from Ferg's own observations of Harlem's underbelly. Humorous and hyperbolic elements infuse Ferg's delivery, often exaggerating his dominance to mythic proportions and injecting levity into heavy subjects. Tracks like "Hood Pope" cast him as a "street messiah," with lines invoking religious imagery—such as chains of "red rubies and the gold"—to blend spiritual bravado with playful irreverence, like shouting out singer amid boasts of hood supremacy. This wit extends to absurd, over-the-top disses, underscoring Ferg's charismatic persona while critiquing rivals through . Posse cuts emphasize AAPMobcamaraderie,loyalty,andcompetitiveenergy,reinforcingthemesofcollectivetriumphover[rivalry](/page/Rivalry).The"Work"remix,featuringAAP Mob camaraderie, loyalty, and competitive energy, reinforcing themes of collective triumph over [rivalry](/page/Rivalry). The "Work" remix, featuring AAP Rocky, , , and , showcases unified flexing on success and crew , with each verse building a tapestry of shared trap . Likewise, "Murda She Wrote" with amplifies aggression and allegiance, turning interpersonal bonds into a weapon against outsiders, all while the beats heighten the chaotic synergy.

Singles

"Work" (Remix)

The remix of "Work" originated from AAPFergscontributiontotheAAP Ferg's contribution to the AAP Mob's 2012 mixtape Lords Never Worry, where the original track marked his debut solo single and showcased his energetic trap style rooted in Harlem street culture. Released on May 14, 2013, as the lead single for Ferg's debut studio album Trap Lord, the remix features verses from A$AP Rocky, French Montana, Trinidad James, and ScHoolboy Q, transforming the song into a high-profile posse cut that amplified its crossover appeal. Produced by the duo Chinza//Fly, the track retains the original's booming bass and relentless rhythm while incorporating the collaborators' distinct flows to heighten its party-anthem vibe. The remix achieved commercial success, peaking at number 100 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 2013 and reaching number 30 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It was later certified 3× platinum by the RIAA on October 21, 2021, denoting 3,000,000 units sold or streamed in the United States. This performance underscored the track's role as a breakout moment for Ferg, bridging underground mixtape buzz with mainstream radio play. Directed by A$AP Rocky, the music video premiered on May 15, 2013, and was filmed at Harlem's iconic basketball court alongside a warehouse in , capturing high-energy choreography, vibrant street fashion, and a sense of communal revelry that mirrored the song's themes of hustle and celebration. The visual's raw, kinetic aesthetic helped solidify the remix's cultural footprint within hip-hop. As Trap Lord's flagship single, "Work (Remix)" generated significant pre-album anticipation, amassing over 10 million views by the album's August 2013 release and establishing Ferg as a in the genre.

"Shabba"

"Shabba" is the second single from AAPFergsdebutstudioalbumTrapLord,releasedonJuly16,2013,asacollaborationfeaturingfellowAAP Ferg's debut studio album *Trap Lord*, released on July 16, 2013, as a collaboration featuring fellow AAP Mob member A$AP Rocky. Produced by Snugsworth, the track fuses trap beats with dancehall riddims, drawing heavily from Jamaican dancehall traditions to create a Caribbean-infused sound that diversifies the album's core trap foundation. This blend highlights Ferg's Harlem roots intertwined with global influences, paying homage to dancehall legend Shabba Ranks through its rhythmic structure and energetic delivery. The song's lyrics revel in themes of partying, luxury, and excess, with Ferg and boasting about lavish lifestyles over a bouncy, infectious beat reminiscent of classic anthems. It achieved commercial success, peaking at number 34 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart in early 2014. The track's upbeat, global party vibe helped broaden Trap Lord's appeal beyond traditional trap audiences, introducing elements that resonated in club scenes worldwide. The accompanying music video, directed by Andrew Hines and released on July 15, 2013, depicts Ferg and Rocky reveling in opulent, exotic settings like a grand castle filled with A$AP Mob members and cameos from figures such as Felicia "Snoop" Pearson from . This visually extravagant production amplified the song's international allure by evoking a sense of escapist indulgence tied to its roots. "Shabba" has endured as a club staple, earning a double from the RIAA on October 21, 2021, for surpassing two million units , underscoring its lasting impact.

"Hood Pope"

"Hood Pope" was released on July 30, 2013, as a buzz single promoting A$AP Ferg's debut album Trap Lord, following the momentum from earlier tracks like the "Work" remix and "Shabba." Produced by VERYRVRE, the song incorporates choir-like vocal samples and a melancholy, singsong cadence inspired by , creating an atmospheric trap beat that underscores Ferg's "Hood Pope" persona as a street-savior figure. The lyrics fuse religious motifs—such as calls to "" like a —with trap bravado, including boasts about carrying weapons and navigating rivalries ("And I carry the heat/ And I sleep with the chrome/ ‘Cause I’m in some beef"), delivered solo without guest features to emphasize Ferg's charisma and Harlem-rooted authority. The accompanying , co-directed by Shomi Patwary and A$AP Ferg, premiered on Complex on December 31, 2013, after the album's release, depicting Ferg as a delivering sermons from a jeep's sunroof in playgrounds and streets, blended with church interiors to symbolize his dual role as spiritual guide and trap icon. Despite limited commercial push and no significant chart placement, the track earned acclaim for its conceptual originality, with designating it a Best New Track for its innovative fusion of paranoia-tinged introspection and melodic delivery.

Promotion

Music videos

The music video for the "Work" remix, directed by AAPFergandAAP Ferg and AAP Rocky, captures the raw energy of through dynamic street scenes and energetic group choreography, emphasizing community and urban vitality. Released in May 2013 ahead of the , it features cameos from A$AP Mob members and other artists like and , blending high-energy dancing with authentic neighborhood settings to reflect Ferg's roots. For "Shabba" featuring AAPRocky,directorAndrewHinescraftedavibrant,hedonisticpartyaestheticinaluxuriousmansion,filledwithcolorfullighting,eclecticattire,andlivelyinteractionsamongAAP Rocky, director Andrew Hines crafted a vibrant, hedonistic party aesthetic in a luxurious mansion, filled with colorful lighting, eclectic attire, and lively interactions among AAP Mob affiliates, including a cameo from himself. Premiered in July 2013, the video's opulent yet chaotic visuals underscore themes of indulgence and celebration, produced under for a more refined look compared to earlier efforts. The "Hood Pope" video, co-directed by AAPFergandShomiPatwary,juxtaposessacredimagerywithstreetculture,portrayingFergasapapalfigureinurbanenvironments,completewithreligiousrobesamidgraffiticoveredwallsandAAP Ferg and Shomi Patwary, juxtaposes sacred imagery with street culture, portraying Ferg as a papal figure in urban environments, complete with religious robes amid graffiti-covered walls and AAP Mob appearances to blend reverence with irreverence. Released in early 2014, it highlights the album's exploration of spirituality in hood contexts through symbolic visuals like crosses and crowns integrated into everyday life. Post-release promotion extended to the "Let It Go" video, directed by Dan the Man and unveiled in March 2014, which features Ferg in yet triumphant sequences against industrial backdrops, reinforcing the track's themes of perseverance and release. This solo effort, produced with label support, helped sustain album momentum by showcasing Ferg's charismatic presence in a narrative-driven format. Across these videos, recurring motifs include bold street —such as layered chains, fur coats, and custom AAPapparelenergetic[dance](/page/Dance)routinesinspiredbyHarlemshakestyles,andfrequentAAP apparel—energetic [dance](/page/Dance) routines inspired by Harlem shake styles, and frequent AAP Mob cameos that foster a collective crew dynamic. By 2025, the combined views for these key videos exceeded 260 million, amplifying the album's cultural reach through viral dance challenges and fashion influences. The production style evolved from the DIY aesthetics of A$AP Mob's early mixtapes—characterized by low-budget, guerrilla-style shoots—to more polished, label-backed efforts under , though the album's overall tight finances meant some creative decisions prioritized energy over extravagance. This shift is evident in the transition from raw, community-sourced footage in "Work" to the structured opulence in "Shabba," reflecting growing resources while maintaining an authentic, unpretentious edge.

Live performances and tour

AAPFergdebutedmaterialfromTrapLordathighprofileeventsinthesummerof2013,buildinganticipationaheadofthealbumsrelease.OnJune2,heperformedatHot97sSummerJamXXFestivalVillageStagein[EastRutherford,NewJersey](/page/EastRutherford,NewJersey),whereheannouncedtheprojectsAugust20releasedateduringhisset.[](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/apfergpushestraplordreleasetoaugust)[](https://hypebeast.com/2013/6/asapfergrevealsreleasedatefortraplord)Laterthatmonth,onJune30,FergjoinedAAP Ferg debuted material from *Trap Lord* at high-profile events in the summer of 2013, building anticipation ahead of the album's release. On June 2, he performed at Hot 97's Summer Jam XX Festival Village Stage in [East Rutherford, New Jersey](/page/East_Rutherford,_New_Jersey), where he announced the project's August 20 release date during his set.[](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/ap_ferg_pushes_trap_lord_release_to_august)[](https://hypebeast.com/2013/6/asap-ferg-reveals-release-date-for-trap-lord) Later that month, on June 30, Ferg joined AAP Rocky, , , and for a performance of the "Work" remix at the BET Awards pre-show in . Following the album's launch, Ferg supported Trap Lord through full sets on AAPMobsfall2013"TurntxBurnt"tour,a33dateNorthAmericanrunthatbeganonOctober30in[Cleveland](/page/Cleveland),[Ohio](/page/Ohio),andincludedstopsincitieslike[Toronto](/page/Toronto),[Chicago](/page/Chicago),and[LosAngeles](/page/LosAngeles).[](https://pitchfork.com/news/52359aapfergandaapmobplotturntxburnttour/)[](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/apfergrollsoutturntburntnorthamericantourdetailswithapmob)ThetourfeaturedAAP Mob's fall 2013 "Turnt x Burnt" tour, a 33-date North American run that began on October 30 in [Cleveland](/page/Cleveland), [Ohio](/page/Ohio), and included stops in cities like [Toronto](/page/Toronto), [Chicago](/page/Chicago), and [Los Angeles](/page/Los_Angeles).[](https://pitchfork.com/news/52359-aap-ferg-and-aap-mob-plot-turnt-x-burnt-tour/)[](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/ap_ferg_rolls_out_turnt_burnt_north_american_tour_details_with_ap_mob) The tour featured AAP Mob members such as AAPRockyandAAP Rocky and AAP Twelvyy, alongside openers like and 100s, allowing Ferg to showcase the project's energetic tracks in a setting. International expansion came later in 2013 with select dates as part of promotional appearances, though his first major overseas appearance was a support slot on A$AP Rocky's Australian tour in June 2013, where he previewed songs like "Shabba" and "" to sold-out crowds in and . In 2014, Ferg returned for his first headline Australian tour, performing Trap Lord tracks across multiple cities. Ferg further promoted Trap Lord at key festivals, including a March 15, 2013, showcase at SXSW in , presented by Mass Appeal at the , where early singles energized audiences. His high-energy delivery during these live outings, often incorporating crowd interaction and Mob collaborations, helped establish his reputation as a dynamic performer. Subsequent appearances, such as at the inaugural festival in in May 2015, continued to highlight the album's tracks amid larger sets. The lasting influence of Trap Lord extended into Ferg's 2015 touring schedule, where songs like "Work," "Shabba," and "" became staples in his performances across and international dates, including a headline run in and . This period marked the "Ferg World Tour" era, with setlists drawing heavily from the debut to maintain its cultural momentum through 2015.

Critical reception

Reviews

Upon its release in August 2013, Trap Lord received generally favorable reviews from music critics, accumulating a Metacritic score of 72 out of 100 based on 18 reviews. Critics frequently praised the album's high energy and A$AP Ferg's charismatic presence, which infused the project with a lively, party-ready vibe. Pitchfork awarded it a 7.5 out of 10, commending Ferg's skill in curating a dark, muscular sound that blended influences from Cleveland bounce, West Coast menace, and New York grit, while highlighting his versatility and star potential. Specific tracks like "Shabba" and "Work" drew acclaim for their infectious catchiness and dynamic flows; "Shabba," featuring A$AP Rocky, was noted for its gleeful, bendy rhythm, and "Work" for its thrilling, speed-shifting delivery that showcased Ferg's vocal dexterity. However, some reviewers pointed to uneven pacing and an overreliance on guest features and underdeveloped ideas as shortcomings. Rolling Stone gave the album 3.5 out of 5 stars, describing Ferg as more of an adept sound curator than a masterful , with the project occasionally feeling skeletal despite its creative flashes. Outlets like XXL emphasized how Trap Lord distinguished Ferg from A$AP Rocky through its rawer, trap-centric focus on gritty street narratives, , drugs, and braggadocio, rather than Rocky's more polished and diverse approach. The album's humorous also emerged as a standout element, adding levity to its otherwise intense themes, as seen in playful, exaggerated boasts on tracks like "Dump Dump." Overall, the consensus positioned Trap Lord as a solid debut that captured Ferg's energetic persona but fell short of revolutionary status due to repetitive elements and lack of deeper introspection.

Accolades

Upon its release, Trap Lord earned several year-end accolades from music publications. It ranked at number eight on Complex's list of the 50 Best Albums of 2013. The album also placed ninth on Rolling Stone's 20 Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2013. A$AP Ferg received a nomination for Rookie of the Year at the , which he ultimately won. The project garnered votes from critics in The Village Voice's annual poll, though it did not crack the top 100 albums. The album's singles also achieved commercial certifications from the (RIAA). The "Work" remix was initially certified gold on October 3, 2016, and later certified 3× platinum on October 21, 2021, denoting three million units sold or streamed. "Shabba," featuring A$AP Rocky, was certified 2× platinum on October 21, 2021, denoting two million units sold or streamed.

Commercial performance

Chart performance

Trap Lord debuted at number 9 on the US chart dated September 7, 2013, marking A$AP Ferg's first entry on the all-genre ranking. The album also achieved strong genre-specific performance, entering at number 4 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and number 2 on the Top Rap Albums chart in the same week. Internationally, it reached number 85 on the and number 51 on the Australian Albums Chart. The album's singles also garnered chart attention in the US. The of "Work" featuring AAPRocky,[FrenchMontana](/page/FrenchMontana),[TrinidadJames](/page/TrinidadJames),and[SchoolboyQ](/page/SchoolboyQ)peakedatnumber100onthe[Billboard](/page/Billboard)Hot100."Shabba"featuringAAP Rocky, [French Montana](/page/French_Montana), [Trinidad James](/page/Trinidad_James), and [Schoolboy Q](/page/Schoolboy_Q) peaked at number 100 on the [Billboard](/page/Billboard) Hot 100. "Shabba" featuring AAP Rocky reached a high of number 34 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
Chart (2013)Peak Position
US Billboard 2009
US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums4
US Top Rap Albums2
UK Albums (OCC)85
Australian Albums (ARIA)51
US Hot 100 ("Work" remix)100
US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs ("Shabba")34

Sales and certifications

Upon its release in August 2013, Trap Lord debuted with first-week sales of 31,830 copies in the United States. The album received a gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on November 8, 2019, for combined sales and streaming equivalent units of 500,000 in the United States. This milestone incorporated streaming data under RIAA guidelines, where 1,500 on-demand audio and/or video streams equal one album unit; by 2023, equivalent album units had surpassed 500,000, driven primarily by increased streaming consumption. On Spotify alone, the album has garnered over 746 million streams as of November 2025, contributing to its ongoing commercial longevity without reaching platinum certification.

Track listing and formats

Track listing

The standard edition of Trap Lord features 13 tracks with a total runtime of 51:08.
No.TitleFeaturing artist(s)LengthProducer(s)Notes
1"Let It Go"4:42Razjah
2"Shabba"A$AP Rocky4:35Snugsworth, Marvel AlexanderSamples "Busy Morning" by Roger Roger.
3"Lord"5:17Ian "Napolian" Davis, Crystal Caines, Ozhora MiyagiFeatures vocal contributions from Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, incorporating their signature melodic rap style.
4"Hood Pope"3:30P on the Boards
5"Fergivicious"3:50Chinza & FlySamples "Pompeii 76 A.D." by Gail Laughton.
6"4:02"4:02A$AP Ferg
7"Dump Dump"3:36P on the Boards
8"Work (Remix)"A$AP Rocky, , , 4:20French Montana, DJ Rel1
9"All I Know", Billy4:12Lee On the Beats
10"Murda Something"3:20Finatik & Zac
11"I'm a Star"3:35A$AP Ferg
12"Psychic"4:32Hector Delgado
13"Crooked"3:39Bink!
The does not include any deluxe edition tracks. Production credits are compiled from album annotations and official releases, with multiple contributors handling beats across the .

Release formats

Trap Lord was initially released on August 20, , in standard digital download and (CD) formats through , in association with AAPWorldwideand[PoloGroundsMusic](/page/PoloGroundsMusic).[](https://musicbrainz.org/releasegroup/2830e346c1344113a4dea2374254539c)[](https://www.discogs.com/release/4932116AAPFergTrapLord)Thealbumfeaturedexplicit[lyrics](/page/Lyrics),aligningwithitsrawhiphopcontent,andincludedthe[remix](/page/Remix)of"Work"featuringAAP Worldwide and [Polo Grounds Music](/page/Polo_Grounds_Music).[](https://musicbrainz.org/release-group/2830e346-c134-4113-a4de-a2374254539c)[](https://www.discogs.com/release/4932116-AAP-Ferg-Trap-Lord) The album featured explicit [lyrics](/page/Lyrics), aligning with its raw hip-hop content, and included the [remix](/page/Remix) of "Work" featuring AAP Rocky, , , and as a standard track, though promotional versions circulated in with additional remixes for radio and industry use. No deluxe edition was issued at launch, keeping the focus on the core 13-track lineup. A vinyl LP edition followed shortly after, pressed on September 10, 2013, also by , providing collectors with a physical analog option in standard black vinyl. This initial pressing maintained the explicit content and original artwork, emphasizing the album's high-energy trap aesthetic. In celebration of its 10th , a limited-edition 2xLP reissue was released on February 9, 2024, by Get On Down under , featuring a and the original artwork to preserve its cultural snapshot. This double-vinyl set catered to vinyl enthusiasts, offering expanded without altering the track sequence. The has been available for streaming on platforms including and since its 2013 debut, contributing to its enduring accessibility. By 2025, it had surpassed 500,000 equivalent units , as certified by the RIAA in 2019.

Personnel

Performers

A$AP Ferg delivers lead vocals on all 13 tracks of Trap Lord, establishing his commanding presence throughout the album. The project features more than ten guest performers, drawing from the AAPMobcollectiveandthewidertrapandhiphopnetworkstocreateacollaborativesound.[](https://www.discogs.com/release/4932116AAPFergTrapLord)KeyappearancesincludeAAP Mob collective and the wider trap and hip-hop networks to create a collaborative sound.[](https://www.discogs.com/release/4932116-AAP-Ferg-Trap-Lord) Key appearances include AAP Rocky, a fellow A$AP Mob member, on "Shabba" and "Work (Remix)"; Bone Thugs-N-Harmony delivering their signature harmonies on "Lord"; and a star-studded lineup of French Montana, Trinidad James, and Schoolboy Q joining the remix of "Work." Waka Flocka Flame contributes verses to "Murda Something," while Maad Moiselle provides featured vocals on "Make a Scene." Additional performers appear on "F**k Out My Face," with Aston Matthews, B-Real, and the group Onyx delivering rapid-fire bars. Natasha Ferguson adds background vocals to "Make a Scene," enhancing its melodic elements. No instrumental performers are credited beyond sampled elements, keeping the focus on vocal contributions from Ferg and his guests.

Production credits

The production of Trap Lord involved a collaborative team of producers who crafted the album's signature trap sound, blending heavy 808 bass, energetic drum patterns, and atmospheric elements reflective of Harlem's street culture. Key contributors included Snugsworth, who produced multiple tracks such as the hit "Shabba" featuring A$AP Rocky, emphasizing booming percussion and catchy hooks. P on the Boards handled "Hood Pope" and "Dump Dump," delivering gritty, high-energy beats with layered synths. Highdefrazjah produced "Let It Go," incorporating melodic keys and trap rhythms, while Veryrvre contributed to "Work." Other producers like Crystal Caines, Versa Beatz, Chinza Fly Beats, High Class Filth, Jim Jonsin, and Finatik N Zac rounded out the sound across the project, with additional production from Ian "Napolian" Davis on several tracks. Frankie P produced tracks including "4,3,2,1," "Make a Scene," and "F**k Out My Face." Mixing duties were shared among James "Biscuit" Rouse, who handled most tracks for a cohesive, punchy mix; Finis "KY" White, responsible for "All the Way"; and Hector Delgado for select cuts like "Shabba" and the "Work" remix. The album was mastered by Dave Kutch at The Mastering Palace, ensuring dynamic range and clarity suitable for both club and streaming playback. Recording took place at various studios, including Studios, Clockwork Studios, and Factory 37, with engineers such as Ian "Napolian" Davis, Frankie P, and Robert Marks capturing the sessions. A&R oversight came from A$AP Yams and the team, led by Bryan Leach, guiding the album's artistic direction and feature selections. The visual identity was shaped by original artwork from Jay West, by Alice Butts, and creative direction from Erwin Gorostiza at .

Legacy

Critical reappraisal

In the years following its 2013 release, Trap Lord has undergone significant reappraisal within hip-hop communities, particularly in online discussions reflecting on its enduring qualities. A 2018 thread on r/hiphopheads commemorating the album's fifth anniversary highlighted its raw energy and unpolished trap aesthetic. Participants praised tracks for their relentless momentum, positioning the album as a foundational text in mid-2010s trap evolution despite some critiques of pacing. By 2023, marking the album's tenth anniversary, discussions intensified, with a r/hiphopheads thread declaring Trap Lord a "top-to-bottom classic" for its innovations in trap sound design, including dense, aggressive beats that blended grit with broader Southern influences, and noting its influence on emerging artists like , whose 2018 debut MUD BOY echoed similar high-energy, street-oriented flows and production styles. Retrospective coverage in hip-hop outlets, tied to the anniversary edition re-release, emphasized its role in diversifying the AAPMobssonicpalettebeyondAAP Mob's sonic palette beyond AAP Rocky's more melodic, fashion-forward approach, showcasing Ferg's distinct aggressive delivery and thematic focus on trap life. The album's production, helmed by contributors like Very Rare and Snugsworth, was lauded for capturing a pivotal moment in New York hip-hop's reclamation of trap dominance. Certain tracks have maintained lasting appeal in streaming playlists and fan rotations, with "Shabba" (featuring A$AP Rocky) frequently cited for its infectious dancehall-infused hook and enduring club viability, amassing over 200 million streams as of November 2025. However, modern critiques have pointed to elements of dated production, such as repetitive synth patterns and lo-fi aggression that feel less refined compared to contemporary trap's polished . The album's legacy extends to Ferg's career trajectory, establishing him as a solo force within the A$AP collective and directly influencing his sophomore effort Always Strive and Succeed (2016), which built on Trap Lord's groundwork by incorporating more personal narratives while retaining its high-octane energy. This debut solidified Ferg's path from Mob affiliate to mainstream contender, with its bold trap framework enabling subsequent explorations of vulnerability and versatility.

Anniversary edition

To mark the 10th anniversary of AAPFergsdebutalbum,aspecial2xLPvinylreissuewasreleasedonFebruary9,2024,throughAAP Ferg's debut album, a special 2xLP vinyl reissue was released on February 9, 2024, through AAP Worldwide in partnership with Sony Legacy Recordings. The edition features the complete original track listing of 13 songs, pressed on black vinyl in a sleeve with a printed insert, preserving the album's raw energy and Harlem-rooted production. This physical re-release highlights the project's lasting significance as a cornerstone of A$AP Mob's sound, blending trap influences with street narratives that continue to resonate in hip-hop.

References

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