Kodak Black’s Unique Charisma and Solid Beat Selection Shine on His Latest Project

Released: October 31, 2025

To say it’s been a few years of ups and downs for Kodak Black after his meteoric rise in the rap game is an understatement. From arrests to rumors of addiction and a surprise pardon from the sitting president, the life of Bill Kapri at the young age of 28 could probably make for a compelling documentary already. So, it’s fitting the Florida native titles his latest project, Just Getting Started, emphasizing that the artist still has a lot of life and music left to give his fans. While there are a few hiccups, this project successfully highlights the appeal of the artist to his fanbase.

Coming into the project, I can’t say that I was a huge fan of the almost nasally, melodic style of the rapper outside of a few undeniably bangers. However, Kodak definitely showcases that when focused, he can make a very palatable song, and his ear for beats is solid. While this project could probably do without a few songs that shouldn’t have made it past the cutting room floor, it never drags, and there is a level of variety without sounding disjointed. All of this is held together by the charisma of the artist, who at times on the project addresses many of the criticisms leveled against him (perhaps a bit too much on the 9-minute rant known as “Prison Deform”). Also, while I know Kodak is known for his melodic style, he seems to be singing just a bit too much for my liking throughout the album.

There aren’t many features on the project, but they definitely include some big names (and surprises). Chance the Rapper shows up on “Still Get Chanel,” which is arguably one of the best tracks on the project. Also, the legendary Pharrell lends his talent to the uptempo “Mumble Rap,” giving it a bit of that untraditional Neptunes feel. Other notable appearances include Gunna, Don Tolliver, Yachty, TTO KT, and Reign, all of whom held their respective own on the featured tracks (I could always do without a Yachty feature, but that’s personal preference). While the production is pretty solid throughout, there are times where I wonder if Kodak is rapping to the same beat I’m listening to, particularly on “YMCA” and “Jungle Fever.”

Overall, I will say this project was better than expected. Part of this success lies in the beat and producer selection; Kodak manages to pick sounds that fit his style, which is where I think a lot of less versatile rappers fail. Kodak knows his lane and sticks to it with enough variety to keep this project engaging and display some growth as an artist.

Standout Tracks: Project Blue, Still Get Chanel, Mumble Rap, Imma Shoot, Who You Seeing Tonight, Time to Be Free, Keys To The City

Album Rating:👑👑👑👑👑👑👑 (7/10)