The release of Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia has garnered massive attention since its initial release in October 2024, claiming nearly 2 billion streams on Spotify alone. Album hits such as “Sticky” and “Like Him” created widespread trends across multiple social media platforms. Now in the midst of his world tour, he looks to avoid the plague that captures many artists coming off new releases: will the music outlive its initial hype amongst listeners?
If Tyler’s discography is any indication, time is no constraint to how favorable a song of his plays amongst his listeners. New fans find themselves digging up gold mines when they discover renewed hits such as the 2011, Frank Ocean-supplemented “She” or “ARE WE STILL FRIENDS?” off Tyler’s 2019 release IGOR. These different sounds and genres invariably rotate within his use, and therefore, popularity. However, a reflection on Chromokopia 5 months later tells us something important: the combination of all Tyler’s previous distinct sounds into one raw, authentic, balanced album has ensured its steady foundation while the mainstream undergoes a storm. Here are some highlights:
“St. Chroma” introduces listeners to Tyler’s new persona and sonic direction. The track features militaristic rhythms, eerie synthesizers, and gospel-inspired choirs, creating a menacing atmosphere. Tyler’s whispering delivery adds to the intensity, setting the tone for the album’s exploration of his psyche. Anytime I think of the album, I instantly associate it with the introductory chant – something that helps with the album’s overall identity.
The strongest three-track run hits us at the usual 3-4-5 spot. “Noid” delves into Tyler’s anxieties regarding celebrity culture and parasocial relationships. The song combines psych-rock elements with guitar and drums, creating a sense of unease that mirrors the paranoia expressed in the lyrics. WILLOW’s background vocals and synthesizers enhance this unsettling energy, making it a standout track that effectively conveys its themes. What I first assumed to be nonsense turned out to be a Ngozi Family sample, singing in a Zambian language. This track most clearly demonstrates a theme present throughout the entire album: catchy first-half, pen-heavy second-half. Meanwhile, “Darling, I” features surprisingly soothing vocals by Teezo Touchdown, reflecting on Tyler’s artistic ambitions and views on monogamy. This track is so groovy that it continues to resonate outside of the niche polyamorous rapper circle and into a classic R&B track. Lastly, “Hey Jane” provides experiential commentary on the supposed pause that accidental pregnancy and thoughts of abortion can put on life, and how each person (yes, in a monogamistic relationship) has different perspectives but ultimately unites under the umbrella of love. I’d definitely call this the smoothest track of the entire record.
The album’s other highlights could be found at the end, including the theme-encapsulating “Take Your Mask Off,” braggadocious anthem “Thought I Was Dead,” and the somber outro “I Hope You Find Your Way Home.” All of these provide a solid ground for the album’s legacy, but none will have as much staying power as the hit “Like Him.” This song, the precipice of Tyler’s emotional authenticity, features an explicit apology from his mother that her problems are to blame for him having never known his father. Combining this with the unusual use of electric guitar in the first-half and synthesizer-drop in the second provided for a banger that works with both Instagram users and therapy patients.
I encourage all who are on the fence about attending to make the trip, especially if they have never seen Tyler. I’ve seen great clips of these live performances, including audience engagement. and he will throw in his other classics such as “See You Again” for a 37-song setlist. There is also a solid supporting cast of Lil Yachty, coming off two joint releases with Concrete Boys and James Blake, and LA-founded group Paris Texas. With this in mind, we can assume there’ll be big crowds – just can call me if you get lost.
Chromakopia Tour – Houston, TX – March 19, 2025 – Toyota Center
Tickets and event info: https://www.toyotacenter.com/events/detail/tylerthecreator
All images from https://www.chromakopia.com/
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