Former Shady Records artist Yelawolf releases “War Story,” a dynamic double album that unfolds in two distinct chapters: “Michael Wayne” and “Trunk Muzik 4ever”.
Side 1: Michael Wayne (song 1 – song 12) In the first installment, Yelawolf reunites with the acclaimed producer Malay, known for their previous collaboration on his 2015 Shady Records album “Love Story”. This album, bearing Yelawolf’s given name, delves into deeply personal narratives and captivating storytelling. The thematic choice of naming the album after Yelawolf’s real name signifies a deeper connection to the content, highlighting the album’s intimate and introspective nature.
Side 2: Trunk Muzik 4ever (song 13 – song 25) On the flip side, after a five-year hiatus since the release of “Trunk Muzik 3” under the Shady and Interscope banners in 2019, Yelawolf returns with the highly anticipated successor, “Trunk Muzik 4ever.” This installment, produced by the masterful WLPWR, seamlessly continues the legacy of the Trunk Muzik series, with beats that resonate with the signature style that fans have come to love.
“War Story” captures Yelawolf’s evolution, blending authenticity and innovation. With a mix of personal narratives and signature beats, this album invites you on a journey through Yelawolf’s musical prowess.
In the song titled “Legend,” entire second verse is dedicated to the list of artists Yelawolf has worked with over his entire career, even before being signed to Shady Records in 2011, giving shout out to Eminem, Dr. Dre, Royce 5’9″ and Slaughterhouse among others. Yela even released the music video for it.
“I put in work with Raekwon, Busta Rhymes, Twista, Tech N9ne
8Ball, MJG, Slim Thug, in ’09
Juelz Santana, Big Boi, Outkast
Gangsta Boo, Juicy J, DJ Paul, we done that
A$AP, 1 Train
Rittz, Struggle, Jelly Roll
Killer Mike, Paul Wall, Big K.R.I.T, my bro
Trae tha Truth, Gucci Mane, The Funky Homosapien
Del, yeah, Bun B, with Dr. Dre, shakin’ hands
B-Real, Cypress Hills, DJ Muggs, Travis Barker
Baldacci, that real, Estevan, the godfather
Lil Jon, Slaughterhouse, Royce da 5′9″
DJ Premier, Mr. DJ A-Trak, NY
Wiz Khalifa, three tours
Two tours with Wu-Thang
WLPWR, Grip Playz, LA’s, The Game
Diplo, Marshal Mathers
Man, the verses I laid with him
I even did a full album with Ed Sheeran, before the stadiums”
In the album, there is another song called “Cars” where Yelawolf directly interpolates Eminem’s iconic “The Way I Am” flow.