Draft:Come Shop Wit Me

Come Shop Wit Me
File:Come Shop Wit Me.jpg
Studio album by Jeezy
Released	October 14, 2003
Recorded	2002–2003
Studio	Various
Genre	Southern hip hop, Trap
Length	77:30
Label	Corporate Thugz Entertainment (CTE)
Producer	Shawty Redd, Midnight Black, Frank Nitti, Lil Jon
Jeezy chronology
Come Shop Wit Me (2003) Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101 (2005)

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Come Shop Wit Me is the debut studio album by American rapper Jeezy. Released on October 14, 2003, by Corporate Thugz Entertainment (CTE World), the double album consists of 27 tracks and serves as a prelude to Jeezy's mainstream breakthrough, offering an unfiltered glimpse into his life before fame. It includes production from Shawty Redd, Midnight Black, Frank Nitti, and Lil Jon, among others.

Background and Context

Before Come Shop Wit Me, Jeezy was relatively unknown outside of his local community. The album marked his first major step towards establishing himself as a solo artist. Born Jay Wayne Jenkins on September 28, 1977, in Columbia, South Carolina, and raised in Macon, Georgia, Jeezy's early life experiences significantly influenced his music.

Musical Style and Themes

The album is firmly rooted in the Southern rap tradition, characterized by its heavy use of trap music elements. Trap music, originating from the Southern United States, is known for its gritty and hard-hitting beats, providing a backdrop for lyrics reflecting the harsh realities of street life. Jeezy's gravelly voice and distinct delivery style are perfectly suited to this genre, allowing him to convey his stories with authenticity and intensity.

The album spans 27 tracks, divided into two discs. The first disc features new material, while the second disc includes some of Jeezy's earlier work, providing a comprehensive overview of his artistic evolution. The production is handled by a range of producers, including Shawty Redd, who would later become a frequent collaborator with Jeezy. The beats are minimalist yet powerful, featuring heavy bass lines and repetitive hooks that complement Jeezy's straightforward lyrical style.

Lyrically, Come Shop Wit Me delves into themes of drug dealing, survival, loyalty, and ambition. Jeezy's storytelling ability shines through as he narrates his experiences in the streets, offering listeners an unfiltered look at the life of a hustler. His lyrics are direct and unembellished, reflecting the rawness of his reality. This authenticity is one of the album's most compelling aspects, resonating with listeners who appreciate unvarnished truth in music.

Notable Tracks

"Let Me Hit Dat": This track is quintessential Jeezy, with its catchy hook and vivid storytelling. It captures the essence of his street-oriented narrative, blending raw honesty with an infectious beat. The song's production features a hypnotic beat that underscores Jeezy's confident delivery, making it a standout track on the album. "Get Ya Mind Right": A motivational anthem, this track encourages listeners to focus on their grind and ambitions. It's a testament to Jeezy's hustler mentality and his belief in self-determination. The song's powerful message is complemented by its energetic beat, making it a rallying cry for anyone striving to overcome adversity. "Take It to the Floor": A club banger that contrasts with the more somber tracks on the album, showcasing Jeezy's versatility and his ability to craft hits that resonate in different settings. The track's upbeat tempo and party vibe offer a glimpse of the celebratory side of Jeezy's lifestyle, adding depth to the album's narrative. "Don't Hate Me": Featuring Lil Jon, this track is a high-energy anthem that highlights the defiant attitude of Jeezy and his crew. The collaboration with Lil Jon, known for his crunk style, adds an extra layer of intensity to the song, making it a memorable addition to the album. "Crack Commandments": This track stands out for its detailed depiction of the rules and strategies involved in street hustling. Jeezy's lyrics are both instructive and reflective, offering insights into the mindset required to navigate the dangers of the drug trade.

Production and Collaborations

The production on Come Shop Wit Me is handled by a variety of producers, each bringing their unique style to the project. Shawty Redd, who would later become a key collaborator on Jeezy's subsequent albums, plays a significant role in shaping the album's sound. His minimalist, hard-hitting beats are a perfect match for Jeezy's gritty lyrics, creating a cohesive sonic experience.

Other notable producers on the album include Midnight Black, Frank Nitti, and Lil Jon. Each producer brings their own flair to the project, resulting in a diverse yet unified sound that captures the essence of Southern rap. The collaborations on the album also add to its richness, with features from artists like Lil Jon, Kinky B, and Fidank. These collaborations not only enhance the album's appeal but also showcase Jeezy's ability to hold his own alongside established artists.

Reception and Impact

Come Shop Wit Me did not achieve significant commercial success upon its release, but it played a crucial role in establishing Jeezy's street credibility and building a loyal fan base. The album's raw and unpolished nature resonated with listeners who appreciated its authenticity. Despite its modest sales, Come Shop Wit Me caught the attention of major industry players, paving the way for Jeezy's signing with Def Jam and the subsequent release of his major-label debut, Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101.

In retrospect, Come Shop Wit Me is seen as a foundational piece in Jeezy's discography. It represents the beginning of his journey from a local hustler to a mainstream rap icon. The album's influence can be seen in the way it set the tone for his future projects, establishing the thematic and stylistic elements that would become his trademarks.

Cultural Significance

Come Shop Wit Me is more than just an album; it's a chronicle of Jeezy's early life and the struggles he faced. It's a testament to his resilience and his ability to turn his experiences into compelling music. For fans and newcomers alike, the album offers a raw and unfiltered look at the origins of one of hip-hop's most influential voices. As we reflect on Jeezy's career, Come Shop Wit Me stands as a crucial chapter in his story—a story of hustle, ambition, and ultimate triumph.

The album's cultural significance extends beyond its musical impact. It is a snapshot of a specific time and place in Atlanta's history, capturing the essence of the city's street culture. Jeezy's portrayal of life in the streets is both personal and universal, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar struggles and aspirations.

Legacy

The album is considered a foundational piece in Jeezy's discography, setting the tone for his future projects and establishing his thematic and stylistic trademarks. Come Shop Wit Me remains a testament to Jeezy's early life and his journey from a local hustler to a mainstream rap icon.

Track Listing

Disc 1 - Hard

No.	Title	Length
1.	"Can U Smell"	3:41
2.	"We Play The Game" (featuring 11/29)	3:58
3.	"22's Or Better"	3:29
4.	"Ain't I"	3:57
5.	"Let Me Hit Dat" (featuring Fidank)	3:54
6.	"Take It To The Floor" (featuring Bone Crusher)	4:34
7.	"Gangsta Walkin'" (featuring Dank)	3:38
8.	"Put The Whip On It"	4:19
9.	"Mel Man Speaks"	0:18
10.	"Put The Whip On It (Pt. 2)"	2:43
11.	"Haters" (featuring 11/29, Lil' Jon)	4:22
12.	"GA" (featuring Pastor Troy, Shawty Redd)	3:52
Total length:		46:54

Disc 2 - Soft

No.	Title	Length
1.	"Real Talk"	0:43
2.	"Come Shop Wit' Me"	3:19
3.	"Ain't Nothin' Like"	4:27
4.	"Thug Ya" (featuring Oobie)	3:57
5.	"I'm A Gangsta" (featuring Kinky)	3:17
6.	"Bananas"	3:52
7.	"2 Nite" (featuring Cutty Cartel)	4:23
8.	"That's What's Up"	4:19
9.	"I Ride" (featuring Kinky)	4:26
10.	"Rainy Days" (featuring Jennie Lasater)	5:03
11.	"Gold Mouth Speaks"	0:13
12.	"The Game" (featuring Lil' C, Sunny Spoon)	4:26
13.	"Gold Mouth Speaks"	0:24
14.	"Matrix"	4:17
Total length:		53:31

Personnel

Jeezy – primary artist Shawty Redd – producer Midnight Black – producer Frank Nitti – producer Lil Jon – producer