Saba Drops His Highly Anticipated 4th Album with No ID

By: Jae.Alexandra

Saba unites with legendary Chicago producer No I.D. to gift listeners his fourth studio album, featuring members of Pivot Gang, Smino, Raphael Saadiq, Kelly Rowland, and more!

After two years, a delayed release date, and securing a sample clearance from Janet Jackson, Saba has officially dropped his long-awaited fourth album in collaboration with renowned Chicago producer No I.D. From The Private Collection of Saba and No I.D. takes you on a victory lap as Saba shares stories of triumph on 'Westside Bound Pt. 4,' explores Black expression with songs like 'head.rap,' and engages in conversations with God on 'How To Impress God."

Saba is no stranger to creating anthems for Chicago, the city he comes from, and the Westside that raised him. On 'Westside Bound Pt. 4,' you’ll find lyrics and themes that inspire celebration while eulogizing Saba’s family history and struggles. The song opens with a voice message from a dear family member, and as the beat builds, Saba begins to flow freely over the track. He then provides background on his family lineage, the Pivot Gang come-up, and calls on fellow member MFNMelo to bring it home in the final verse before Saba closes the song out with a Chicago chant.

Saba Feat. MFnMelo - Westside Bound Pt. 4

Saba embodies confidence and the importance of Black expression through much of his music, but on his song 'head.rap,' he joins forces with Madison McFerrin, Ogi, and Jordan Ward to deliver this work of art. The visuals for this song capture the essence of Blackness—Black hair. From fros to braids to freeform locs, this melodic and soulful tune encourages listeners to embrace their hair and their self-love journey

Continuing on this path of self-discovery, his single 'How To Impress God' delves into spirituality. In light of his achievements, Saba takes the time on this track to reflect on his spiritual fulfillment. He recites a conversation with God, exploring themes of honesty and self-worth. This inner dialogue reflects the obstacles and accomplishments that have paved the way for Saba's success and serves as a reminder of who he is.

For this project, Saba collaborates with familiar peers like Frsh Waters, Joseph Chilliams, Smino, and Jean Deaux, while also introducing new collaborations with BJ the Chicago Kid, Raphael Saadiq, Kelly Rowland, and others.

​Though the project was a two-year process, which included a slight delay due to clearing a Janet Jackson sample for track 2, titled 'Breakdown,' it’s clear that great things take time. From the lyrics to the beats, the track choices, and the music features—this album speaks to Saba’s character and growth as an artist. Stream the full album below, and you can also download the iLLANOiZE Radio app to catch songs live in heavy rotation.

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