Former Shady Records artist Yelawolf just dropped a double album summarising his whole career in two volumes. “War Story” unfolds like a captivating story, split into two distinct chapters: “Michael Wayne” and “Trunk Muzik 4ever”.

“Michael Wayne” is all about going back to the roots. It is a personal and vulnerable account of Yelawolf’s creative growth. To emphasise this point, the album bears Yela’s given name.

On this volume, Yelawolf and the acclaimed producer Malay reunite, a collaboration that harks back to their successful past work on Shady Records’ “Love Story” in 2015.

Here, personal narratives take centre stage. “Michael Wayne” dives deep into intimate stories, offering a glimpse into the man behind the music. The introspective and reflective nature of Yela’s songs reaches a new height on this album.

The second volume, “Trunk Muzik 4ever”, is a powerhouse. After a five-year hiatus, Yelawolf brings back the iconic “Trunk Muzik” series. Well-familiar producer WLPWR takes the reins for this instalment, ensuring the beats resonate with the signature “Trunk Muzik” style fans know and love. This album seamlessly carries the torch of the “Trunk Muzik” legacy, delivering the unique energy and signature sounds that made the series a success.

“Legend”, the “Michael Wayne” closing track, blends these two approaches together, working both as a transition between two chapters and the summit of the project. It looks back into Yelawolf’s history but is pulsing with passion. It only feels natural that Yela has chosen to drop a music video for this song on the album’s release date. In this track, Yelawolf dedicates an entire verse to the artists he has collaborated with throughout his career, including Eminem, Dr. Dre, Royce da 5’9”, and Slaughterhouse. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the Shady family and the impact these collaborations have had on his journey.

I put in work with Raekwon, Busta Rhymes, Twista, Tech N9ne
8Ball, MJG, Slim Thug in ’09
Juelz Santana, Big Boi, Outkast
Gangsta Boo, Juicy J, DJ Paul, we done that
A$AP, 1 Train, Rittz, Struggle, Jelly Roll
Killer Mike, Paul Wall, Big K.R.I.T, my bro
Trae tha Truth, Gucci Mane, The Funky Homosapien
Del, yeah, Bun B, with Dr. Dre shakin’ hands
B-Real, Cypress Hills, DJ Muggs, Travis Barker
Baldacci, that real, Estevan, the godfather
Lil Jon, Slaughterhouse, Royce da 5’9″
DJ Premier, Mr. DJ A-Trak, NY
Wiz Khalifa; three tours, two tours with Wu-Tang
WLPWR, Grip Playz, LA’s, The Game
Diplo, Marshall Mathers, man, the verses I laid with him
I even did a full album with Ed Sheeran, before the stadiums

“War Story” is not just a double album; it’s a journey through Yelawolf’s musical evolution. It blends authenticity with innovation and personal narratives with signature beats. This project promises to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers.

Previous articleEminem — “Houdini” in Reviews: From Ridiculous to Insightful
Next articlePhoto of the Day: D12 Backstage at the Michigan Central Station Opening Concert, Detroit