Back in July we threw it back to Fabolous 2001-2005 gems, and today we're taking a look at the second half of that decade. By compiling tracks from 2006-2010, we've revisited releases like From Nothin' To Somethin' and Loso's Way, albums that helped to solidify Fabo's legacy as one of the great New York rappers of the post-B.I.G. era.
In the list, you'll find that many of his singles from the era were collaborative hits ("Diamonds," "Brooklyn," "My Time"). Fabolous sort of perfected the R&B/rap crossover singles, working with the likes of The-Dream, T-Pain, Jeremih, and Keri Hilson to create tracks that were ready for pop radio just as much as they were intended for any other purpose. In more recent years, Fabolous has used his S.O.U.L. Tape series to showcase some of his more technical skills as an MC. We only scratch the surface of those releases this time, but it makes for a fun throwback list nevertheless.
"Diamonds" featuring Young Jeezy
Fabo linked up with Jeezy for the lead single of 2007's From Nothin' To Somethin'. Originally, the track was supposed to feature Lil Wayne, but Def Jam wanted one of their own featured alongside Fabolous on the song.
"Brooklyn" featuring Jay Z and Uncle Murda
Broooooklyyyyn! There's nothing like representing your home city, especially when that city is the most populated borough in all of New York City. With Jay Z and Uncle Murda, a couple Brooklyn natives in tow, the trio crafted a tune worthy of baring the borough's name.
"Make Me Better" featuring Ne-Yo
In the introduction we spoke briefly to Fabolous' ability to craft the perfect crossover hit. "Make Me Better" is a prime example of that ability, bringing Ne-Yo on board and keeping the bars light enough for pop radio to digest.
"Baby Don't Go" featuring Jermaine Dupri & T-Pain
And here's another one that follows that crossover mold. With T-Pain and Jermaine Dupri's help, Loso delivered more bubblegum pop that passes as rap music, also off 2007's From Nothin' To Somethin'.
"The Way (Intro)"
It's rare that Fabo gives you straight bars, but it's nice when he does. The introductory track from Loso's Way was a pleasant reminder that our subject possesses the skill-set to deliver a serious verse, even if it has to come in the form of a run-on intro.
"And I would say my style is 5th Ave. meets Brooklyn
I keep the hood watching, I got the streets lookin'"
"Throw It In The Bag" featuring The-Dream
The dude Fabolous is straight flossin' in this video. From the big-body Rolls Royce that you see in the introduction shot to the shopping spree he takes his chick on, this is the definition of balling.
"My Time" featuring Jeremih
Of course, for every fire-spitting introduction, there will be at least 4-5 songs for the radio. In classic Fab fashion, he links with Jeremih for the R&B/hip hop hybrid "My Time."
"Everything, Everyday, Everywhere" featuring Keri Hilson & Ryan Leslie
Ryan Leslie produced the synth-heavy banger, then Fabo and Keri Hilson did their best to bless it. It turns into a stand-out cut from 2009's Loso's Way.
"You Be Killin Em"
With featured artists so often joining Fabo on his tracks, its nice to see him occasionally take the reins himself. With production from his longtime collaborator DJ Clue and Ryan Leslie, the track ranked in the top 10 on both the R&B/Hip Hop chart and the Rap chart.
"Wolves In Sheep Clothing"
"Wolves In Sheep Clothing" is another one where Fabo doesn't rely on features to help him on. Over a familiar beat that was used on Kanye West's "Devil In A New Dress," the Brooklyn MC showcases his 90s rap style for the debut S.O.U.L. Tape. Kanye West himself should be proud.