Single Review - “Trap Trauma” by Asaka The Renegade

“Trap Trauma” by Asaka The Renegade, if nothing else, is a blueprint for song structure that has long been forgotten by modern rappers, blending fresh and raw storytelling with natural, divine-given talent. This song is a stark reminder that when Asaka puts pen to paper, few in music can match him letter for letter or story for story. 

For those familiar with Asaka, as of late, his style has taken on a chameleon’s stance, shifting between R&B, Detroit-style rap, modern hip-hop, or even a Caribbean twist with his delivery. My point being that his flow has never stood still as his career has progressed, and for good reason - it works. However, for “Trap Trauma,” Asaka reverts to his natural roots as a story-driven modern emcee, one that knows he can tell a story that’s both relatable and catchy. 

In what starts as a skit from the rapper explaining how he would rather die trying to be rich than die broke, the song's story details a family lineage of hustle and ambition, and how that drive now lies with him. 

While instrumentally the song is barebones, giving Asaka the space needed to rattle off in style, the highlight of this song is Asaka’s brilliant flow switches. Whether it’s the steady first verse where he craftily describes himself as a “perspective of a pistol packing prospect,” or the second verse where he blitzes the instrumental with his rare but efficient rapid-fire flow. 

Overall, “Trap Trauma” is Asaka at his best, proving once again why he is one of Detroit’s best rappers, if not bar-for-bar the best rapper already. You can hear the song here.