'Along Came Joyner': A Journey Through Joyner Lucas's Lyrical Brilliance

Massachusetts rapper Joyner Lucas has become synonymous with lyrical prowess and impressive storytelling. The MC has consistently delivered music that resonates with both critics and fans, scoring a string of viral hits. Amid his growing popularity, Joyner has stayed committed to producing conscious music to combat negative trends in hip-hop.

“You know some of the music is f**king r******d,” he told Billboard. “Some of it is fire. It’s melodies and whatever, but some of these n***as aren’t saying s**t. There’s literally no substance at all.” He went on to exclaim that the modern class of rappers is “illiterate” while sending praise to collaborator NBA YoungBoy.

Joyner now has several projects under his belt, each showcasing his unique ability to weave intricate narratives and confront social issues. Let’s break down Joyner’s best albums, ranked by impact and commercial performance.

Along Came Joyner is one of the mixtapes that played a crucial role in Lucas’s rise to fame. The mixtape is a gritty, unfiltered look at his early experiences and struggles, making it a must-listen for fans who want to get a deeper understanding of the rapper’s life.

The project includes songs like “Ross Capicchioni,” which recounts the harrowing true story of a Detroit teenager’s near-fatal shooting.

Evolution, released in 2020, marked a pivotal point in Joyner's career. The project reflects a more polished sound compared to his early mixtapes. However, Lucas remains true to his introspective narratives.

The project features tracks like "Snitch," in which Lucas explores the consequences and moral dilemmas associated with betrayal, while collaborations with artists like Ashanti add a layer of emotional depth, making Evolution a solid debut.

Following the success of Along Came Joyner, Lucas released 508-507-2209. This mixtape is filled with intense storytelling and social commentary. Tracks like “I’m Sorry” and “Keep It 100” are thought-provoking, touching on topics like suicide and integrity. This mixtape was pivotal in showcasing Lucas’s potential and ability to tackle complex subjects with sensitivity and skill.

In March, Joyner released his sophomore studio project, Not Now I’m Busy. The album included guest appearances by Twista, Logic, YoungBoy, and a sample from DMX.

Although it didn't match the success of Joyner’s debut album, Not Now I’m Busy, performed well on the charts. It reached No. 42 on the Billboard 200 and achieved even greater success on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop chart, which landed at No. 14.

ADHD, Joyner Lucas’s debut studio album, stands as his most impactful work to date. The album peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, selling more than 500,000 copies, according to The RIAA. The album includes tracks like “Isis” featuring Logic and “The War” with Young Thug. However, it’s the introspective tracks like “Devil’s Work” and “I Love” that truly highlight Lucas’s depth as a rapper.