T.I.'s debut album, "I'm Serious," released in 2001 under Arista Records, is a gritty introduction to the Atlanta rapper's early career. This Southern hip hop album showcases T.I.'s raw talent and the burgeoning sound of the Dirty South. With a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, the album features 16 tracks, including collaborations with notable artists like Beenie Man, The Neptunes, Jazze Pha, Too $hort, and a bonus track featuring YoungBloodZ and Pastor Troy, remixed by Lil Jon.
The album opens with the title track "Intro," setting the tone for the rest of the record. Standout tracks like "Dope Boyz," "What's Yo Name" (featuring production from The Neptunes), and "Chooz U" (featuring Jazze Pha) highlight T.I.'s lyrical prowess and the album's Southern hip hop roots. "I'm Serious" also includes introspective tracks like "Still Ain't Forgave Myself" and "What Happened?", offering a glimpse into T.I.'s early experiences and mindset.
Despite receiving a lukewarm reception upon its release, "I'm Serious" is a significant piece of work for T.I. fans and those interested in the evolution of Southern hip hop. The album is a testament to T.I.'s hustle and determination, which would later propel him to greater success in the music industry. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of his later works, "I'm Serious" remains an essential part of T.I.'s discography and a notable entry in the early 2000s hip hop landscape.
Vinylscout