Album Review: GloRilla – Glorious
With her debut studio album, Glorious, GloRilla cements her position as one of the most unique voices in contemporary hip-hop. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, GloRilla brings the grit and authenticity of Southern rap to the forefront, blending her signature raw delivery with introspective themes and energetic production. Across 15 tracks, she showcases a wide range of styles, from hard-hitting anthems to soulful reflections, all while staying true to her Memphis roots. Here’s a detailed review of each track:
1. “TGIF”
The album kicks off with “TGIF,” a high-energy anthem celebrating freedom and the joy of the weekend. Over a bouncy, bass-heavy beat, GloRilla’s commanding voice cuts through with unapologetic confidence. Lines like “Clocked out, but my grind stays on overtime” reflect her hustle mentality. This track feels distinctly Memphis with its crunk-inspired energy, setting the tone for the album.
2. “Hollon”
“Hollon” is GloRilla’s statement to doubters and critics. The production is gritty, with a menacing piano loop underscoring her assertive flow. She raps, “You think I’m slowing down? You must not know the pace of a queen,” asserting her dominance in the rap game. The track’s rawness is reminiscent of Memphis legends like Three 6 Mafia but reimagined through GloRilla’s lens.
3. “Whatchu Kno About Me” (feat. Sexyy Red)
This collaboration with Sexyy Red is pure fire. The two rappers exchange bold, braggadocious bars, showcasing their chemistry. The track’s thumping bassline and playful ad-libs give it an undeniable bounce, while GloRilla’s Memphis drawl contrasts perfectly with Sexyy Red’s St. Louis style, highlighting their regional uniqueness.
4. “Don’t Deserve”
In one of the more introspective moments on the album, “Don’t Deserve” delves into GloRilla’s reflections on relationships and self-worth. Over a soulful beat, she raps, “I gave my all to those who gave me scraps, now I’m reclaiming my throne.” The vulnerability in her delivery makes this track a standout, revealing a more personal side of her artistry.
5. “Glo’s Prayer” (feat. Kirk Franklin)
Pairing with gospel legend Kirk Franklin, “Glo’s Prayer” is a heartfelt track that bridges rap and faith. The production combines gospel choirs with trap beats, creating a powerful backdrop for GloRilla’s gratitude-filled verses. This song highlights her ability to fuse spirituality with streetwise storytelling, a nod to her Memphis upbringing, where gospel and soul are cultural staples.
6. “How I Look”
“How I Look” is GloRilla’s confident declaration of her self-image and style. With a catchy hook and booming 808s, she flaunts her individuality, rapping, “They could copy my fit, but the aura’s bespoke.” The track oozes Southern swagger, cementing her distinct voice in a crowded field of female rappers.
7. “I Ain’t Going”
This anthem of resilience is all about perseverance. GloRilla’s delivery is fiery as she spits, “You can’t break me, I’m from Memphis / Built tough, I was raised with it.” The gritty production leans into the Memphis sound, with dark synths and a pounding beat, reinforcing the message of unstoppable determination.
8. “I Luv Her”
“I Luv Her” is a melodic tribute to loyalty and admiration, where GloRilla explores themes of friendship and trust. The sing-song hook contrasts with her punchy verses, creating a track that feels heartfelt yet energetic. The song reflects the influence of Southern rap’s storytelling tradition, grounding the album in authenticity.
9. “Let Her Cook”
“Let Her Cook” is an empowering anthem encouraging women to claim their independence. Over an infectious beat, GloRilla raps with authority, “I’m cooking my way to the top, let the heat rise.” The track’s lively tempo and motivational message make it a standout moment of empowerment.
10. “Stop Playing” (feat. T-Pain)
Teaming up with T-Pain, “Stop Playing” is a smooth, flirtatious track that blends hip-hop and R&B. T-Pain’s auto-tuned vocals add a nostalgic flair, while GloRilla holds her own with witty verses that explore love and trust. This collaboration shows her versatility, stepping comfortably into more melodic territory.
11. “Procedure”
On “Procedure,” GloRilla lays out her blueprint for success. The beat is stripped back but heavy, allowing her bars to take center stage. Lines like “Memphis raised me to hustle, every move is calculated” reflect her strategic mindset and respect for the grind. The no-nonsense delivery reinforces her status as a serious contender in the industry.
12. “Rain Down on Me” (feat. Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Music)
Another gospel-infused track, “Rain Down on Me” combines spirituality with introspection. Featuring powerful choral harmonies and heartfelt verses, GloRilla thanks her faith for guiding her through challenges. The blending of gospel and rap feels authentic and speaks to her deep connection with her roots.
13. “Yeah Glo!”
“Yeah Glo!” is an unapologetic celebration of her success. The production is high-energy, with rapid-fire drums and an anthemic hook that’s impossible not to chant along with. GloRilla’s confidence radiates as she declares, “They chant my name, but I’m just warming up.”
14. “Ehhthang Ehhthang”
This track nods to her earlier career, combining nostalgic elements with her current sound. The gritty Memphis beat and raw delivery show how much she’s grown while staying true to her origins. “Ehhthang Ehhthang” is a reminder of her hustle and the journey that’s brought her to this point.
15. “Glo’s Outro”
Closing the album, “Glo’s Outro” is reflective and sincere. Over a mellow beat, GloRilla recounts her journey, from growing up in Memphis to becoming a rising star. Lines like “My city’s on my back, my heart beats in its streets” show her pride in representing Memphis while carving out her space in the industry.
How GloRilla Sets Herself Apart
GloRilla’s Memphis roots are central to her identity, and Glorious highlights the gritty, soulful energy that sets her apart from other regional rap styles. While Atlanta and Houston artists might focus on polished trap beats or slow-chopped sounds, GloRilla leans into the raw, aggressive tones of Memphis hip-hop, influenced by legends like Three 6 Mafia and Yo Gotti. Her deep, commanding voice and unapologetically authentic storytelling add a unique texture to her music, allowing her to stand out in a competitive landscape of female rappers.
Final Thoughts
Glorious is a powerful debut that showcases GloRilla’s versatility, charisma, and connection to her Memphis roots. From party anthems to introspective tracks, she balances raw energy with heartfelt honesty, proving she’s more than just a rising star—she’s a force to be reckoned with. With this album, GloRilla firmly establishes herself as a trailblazer in modern hip-hop.
