In the early 2000s, the South had the rap game in the choke hold, which Atlanta could take a lion share of the credit. However, it would be an unprincipled behavior to say Houston didn’t play a role. This leads me to Paul Wall, an H-Town representative, and his 2005 album, The People’s Champ. Let’s chop it up.
The People’s Champ hit the streets on September 13, 2005. And since Texas is home of candy paint and Screwed music (RIP DJ Screw), it was only right that Wall hit us with “Sittin’ Sidewayz,” a song for the old school riders, as the first single.
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The single, featuring and sampling Big Pokey, tapped into Billboard Hot 100, reaching the 93 spot. It did far better on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, peaking at 34.
There were other songs dedicated to Texas culture such as “They Don’t Know” and “Ridin’ Dirty,” among others. However, the Houston Texan took a break from it in “Girl.” Wall used The Chi-Lite sample to warn his lady companion about the vast mistake it would be if they were to part ways.
The biggest single from the album was “Drive Slow” featuring Kanye West and GLC. The single went Gold.
The album was released through the Texas-based, Swishahouse (distributed through Atlantic Records and Asylum Records).
The People Champ peaked at on the US Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts. It was certified Platinum by the RIAA.
Paul Wall had the proper ingredients for a H-Town type of album. But did the ingredients make it a classic though? 🤔
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Paul Wall’s ‘The People Champ’; Classic!, Dope, Regular, or Garbage?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Dope – Unanimous!
Garbage – 0%
Regular – 0%
Classic! – 0%
