Without argument, we can all unanimously agree that ATL’s own OutKast, the duo comprised of Andre 3000 and Big Boi, evolved into possibly the most unique group in hip-hop. Getting their start in the early ’90s, they helped to popularize the southern sound (of Organized Noize), and along the way sold well over 25 million records.
It was at the time of their sophomore release, Aquemini, that the two rappers started to harshly distinguish their individual personalities. Big Boi had more street aesthetic, while Andre 3000 began to really stand out, with his ever-evolving lyrical content and his wardrobe choices. An example, of course, being his bizarre blend of football-inspired gear and animal print pants in the infamous “Rosa Parks” video. The duo took the complimentary contrast a step further when they released Stankonia, which included songs like “B.O.B.,” and helped to usher in the trademark blend of weirdness that makes them so historically significant in the culture’s timeline. It wasn’t until their groundbreaking Speakerboxx/Love Below, which was for all intents and purposes two solo albums, that Andre took the full plunge into the 3 Stacks we know today.
With an artistic aura that could be felt in his sing-song cadence and a style sensibility that can only be explained as Dapper Dan meets 1950s England (with a dash of ’60s spirit), Andre established himself as one of the most daring artists in the game. He diversified his portfolio throughout the 2000s, appearing in numerous films (including his more recent role in the Hendrix biopic), and pulling off a handful of side projects that range from fashion to a children’s cartoon. He also exudes an undeniable charm that has made him a favorite with female fans over the years, leading him to appear in a national advertising campaign for Gillette.
Unfortunately, Andre 3000 hasn’t blessed us with a solo body of work in many years — too many years in fact. However, he’s popped up time and time again to deliver super dope 16s and guest spots on some of your favorite rapper’s tracks. As he prepares to celebrate his 40th birthday, we’ve taken the liberty of collecting some of his best guest verses. So straighten your ascot and check out some big bars from one of ATL’s finest. So fresh, so clean.
“Sorry”
“Everybody”
“Benz Friendz”
“What a Job”
“International Player’s Anthem (I Choose You)”
“Hello”
“I Do”
“Nectarine”
“It’s Ok”
“That’s Sexy”
“The Real Her”
“Sumthin’ Wicked This Way Comes”
“Ride”
“Sixteen”
“UFO”
“Millionaire”
“Walk It Out (Remix)”
“Party”
“Deuces”
“Green Light”
“Pink Matter”
“Dedication to My Ex (Miss That)”
“30 Something”
“Interlude”
“Throw Some Ds”