Ab-Soul’s Soul Burger: A Conceptual Tribute Beyond Hip-Hop Norms

With Soul Burger, Ab-Soul takes listeners on a journey far beyond a typical album release. The project, named in honor of his close friend Dough Burger, stands as a conceptual piece that blurs the lines between Ab-Soul’s personal artistry and Dough’s influential spirit. By calling it a “Soul Burger project” rather than an Ab-Soul album, he emphasizes that the work represents the fusion of their shared history, creativity, and energy. Fans are encouraged to experience Soul Burger as a layered narrative, a project that resonates with meaning and challenges listeners to dive deeper into its intent. These insights, shared during his interview with DJ Hed and Gina on the Effective Immediately podcast, reveal the unique creative vision Ab-Soul brings to the album.

From the interview’s start, the ambiance matched the energy Ab-Soul poured into Soul Burger. Gina wore an exclusive Marathon Clothing Victory Lap Letterman jacket, a piece that spoke to her connection with the L.A. hip-hop scene, a culture that Ab-Soul also represents. These details set the stage for an in-depth discussion of his newest work, marking a special moment for him and his label, Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), as they celebrate 20 years in the game. TDE’s legacy has long been defined by artists who stay true to the roots of hip-hop while pushing the genre forward, and Soul Burger exemplifies this mission.

Throughout his career, Ab-Soul has been dedicated to the idea that “everyone is talented, but not everyone is skilled.” This distinction lies at the heart of his approach to hip-hop: beyond natural talent, he believes in the importance of honing one’s craft, especially in an industry where trends can easily overshadow depth. For Ab-Soul, Soul Burger is not about following the latest wave; it’s about leaving a unique mark that stands the test of time. He emphasizes that each track reflects this commitment to authenticity and skill, aiming to offer more than what might be expected from a standard hip-hop release.

The album’s lead single, “All That,” featuring Jason Martin, marks an unexpected but significant step for Ab-Soul. Known for introspective and socially conscious music, he surprises fans with a record he describes as his first true “slap.” The track is both a tribute and an experiment, allowing Ab-Soul to explore a more club-oriented sound while keeping it grounded in his personal style. The creation of “All That” unfolded organically as he vibed with the beat, avoiding any forced attempt to make a “hit” and instead letting the song come together naturally. Jason Martin, whom Ab-Soul calls the “King of Ratchet,” adds an unmistakable L.A. flavor, bringing what he describes as “real hot sauce” to the track. Together, they create an energetic anthem that brings a fresh but authentic feel to Soul Burger, illustrating Ab-Soul’s willingness to expand his artistry while staying true to hip-hop’s essence.

Ab-Soul’s definition of hip-hop as “intelligent movement” also adds a layer of meaning to the project. He sees hip-hop as a form of cultural expression that goes beyond music, serving as a voice for resilience, unity, and authenticity. For Ab-Soul, who refers to his music as “ghetto CNN,” each song is a chance to convey wisdom and insight. Soul Burger is no different; it stands as an ode to Dough Burger’s memory while honoring the broader culture that hip-hop represents. In his own words, he’s not merely here to rap—he’s here to leave a lasting fingerprint on the industry, a testament to the power of art that speaks truth.

Adding depth to his journey is Ab-Soul’s personal resilience. As a legally blind artist, he navigates life and the stage with the same faith and determination that guide his career. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, he views his unique vision as part of his creative identity. His reliance on memory, faith, and adaptation highlights a layer of strength and humility that shines through in his music. Ab-Soul’s confidence and calm approach, built on his journey of overcoming these challenges, further emphasize the depth and substance he brings to his art.

Ab-Soul also reflected on TDE’s legacy in the interview, marking two decades since the label’s founding. The label’s history includes artists whose work speaks to long-term impact over fleeting success, and Ab-Soul’s career is a prime example of that ethos. His focus remains on creating music with purpose, transcending the pressures of the modern industry and staying true to the roots of hip-hop. “I’ve been the underground emperor for so long,” he noted, positioning himself as an artist who chooses substance over surface, proving that real artistry can thrive in a world of quick hits and viral moments.

Finally, Soul Burger serves as a celebration of loyalty and community, especially in his hometown of Carson, California. For Ab-Soul, loyalty isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the essence of his work. As he discussed on the Effective Immediately podcast, he takes pride in representing Carson and L.A., a city known for its rich hip-hop history. This sense of pride is evident in how he describes his bond with Dough Burger, not just as friends but as two artists whose creative spirits intertwined. Ab-Soul’s vision, reflected in the title of Soul Burger, shows how personal connections can give rise to groundbreaking artistry, honoring those who inspire us long after they’re gone.

In Soul Burger, Ab-Soul’s ability to balance introspection with an expansion into new sounds sets a high bar for conceptual albums. The project isn’t just an album—it’s Ab-Soul’s tribute to Dough Burger, a reflection of his legacy, and a testament to his skill. In an industry moving at breakneck speed, Ab-Soul remains focused on leaving a lasting impact, blending soulful introspection with fresh sounds. As he challenges the boundaries of hip-hop, Soul Burger invites fans to embrace the album’s conceptual depth and appreciate it as a work of art, honoring both the culture and the memories that have shaped it.

Tidal Link for Ab-Soul feat. JasonMartin - All That