With the double album
BooPac, Louisiana rap veteran
Boosie Badazz was clearly aiming to make his
All Eyez on Me. The title to that iconic release is mentioned on the third song, "God Wants Me to Ball," and
Boosie directly references
2Pac on "Wrong Role Model" and "Trust Nobody." Like Shakur before him,
Boosie writes extensively about his troubled, turbulent life, with references to his prison sentences, his ongoing battle with diabetes, and his treatment and recovery from kidney cancer. Other lyrical topics include his experiences taking and selling drugs, relationship issues, and betrayal by friends and family. He's far more introspective and confessional than most of his peers, aiming to make music for people to relate to rather than just tracks for clubs or the radio. With production by Mouse on Tha Track, Timmydahitman, Matthew Applewhite, and several others, the tracks range from straightforward trap bangers to lighter, occasionally gospel-infused tracks with uplifting piano melodies. While tracks such as "Real Shooter" and "Liar" are vicious and aggressive, there are plenty of hopeful, encouraging ones such as the
Anthony Hamilton-featuring "I Hope You Make It" and the maternal appreciation ode "Me & Mama." On songs like "Everything" and "Heartless Hearts,"
Boosie expresses his devastation at the tragic events of his life, as well as the resulting hopelessness and depression. Over slow, glacial beats, "I Testify" takes a look at America's problems, mentioning the Flint, Michigan water crisis, racial inequality, overweight children, and other issues. The juxtapositions of hard attitude and soft music can be jarring at times, but this is clearly music created to provoke emotions and make an impact on the listener rather than just fade into the background. ~ Paul Simpson