Prima Donna:

Exploring Mid-2010’s Pop Culture Critiques through The Fatalistic Lens of a Premier Poet

Original *Ghost Wonder* collage featuring Staples (center) as seen on the “Prima Donna” EP cover

Trouble in the LBC

In his 2nd EP, Long Beach native rapper Vince Staples released a nihilistic, adroit, and enigmatic project to paint the path of aggrandized fame and fortune. From interviews to music, Vince’s unique critiques of popular culture highlight his most powerful asset— his perspective. His 7-song EP “Prima Donna,” masterfully illustrates his hometown using snapshots of his mind and embodying the vantage points of others in his environment.

“I don’t need no accolades, Boy I’m here to act a fool.”

“Ask about me, had the shotty, robbin' nigg*s at the school.”

“Lookin' at my vida, all this money, all these visas.”

“All these mothafuckin' mini mes I know they wanna be him.”

The Trojan Horse

Prima Donna appears to glorify the lavish, hedonistic lifestyle expected of rappers, which contradicts the true subject matter of the album. Despite having an empathetic expertise of South California gang culture, Vince’s artistic persona oscillates between bystander and player in a game where the odds are out of your favor. His iconic POV alludes to distinct wisdom, further mystifying his young voice; he’s only 23 upon the EP’s release.

The album’s story blends reality of life with the concept of image in the Age of the Internet, Information, and Individualism.

Born Ready.

War Ready.

Born Ready. War Ready.

Top 3

Loco is the cartoonized climax of Prima Donna. The artistic voice sounds like Vince, but as an extreme version of his life, wants, and desires. The track is capped off by a poem to encapsulate Vince’s darkest, innermost thoughts.

On the other hand, Prima Donna is the true climax of Prima Donna’s story. As a narrative flair, Vince crescendos his voice throughout verses to express increased emotion when detailing the trials of fame. A$AP Rocky delivered the pristine feature, and cleared the way for a diamond-level lyrical performance by Mr. Staples.

James Blake

Singer, Songwriter & Producer.

Vince and James Blake are an incredible tandem who never fail to create an eccentric, emotional, and electrifying track. Despite seemingly superficial lyrics and the grimy instrumental, Big Time illustrates the moment & the setting before deciding on the profession of rapping.

Original *Ghost Wonder* collage featuring Staples, as seen in more album art for “Prima Donna.”

No Skips

Vince Staples spectacular & peculiar beat selection mirrors the youthful, wise, outlandishness of his lyrical delivery and subject matter. His ability to choose instrumentals & features like canvases and brush strokes have propelled Vince to create some of the most distinguished, complete albums of hip-hop artists since his Mac Miller produced album, Stolen Youth.