Album Review: What Would U Do by Damizza
Alright, let’s dive into this one. What Would U Do by Damizza is a gritty Hip Hop album straight outta the US, with that Gangsta vibe running through its veins. Released under Baby Ree Entertainment, it’s got some serious star power on deck—Mariah Carey, Nate Dogg, and Butch Cassidy all jump in to bless a few tracks. Yeah, you heard me right. Mariah Carey on a Gangsta Hip Hop joint? Wild, huh?
The album kicks off with the title track, “What Would You Do (Album).” Man, this one sticks with you. It’s got that raw edge, but then Mariah’s vocals just swoop in like a velvet hammer. She smooths out the roughness without losing the street cred. The hook is catchy as hell, and when Nate Dogg drops his verse, it’s like everything slows down for a sec. Dude had a way of making every line sound legendary. This track hits different because it’s not just about flexing or tough talk—it’s got layers. Like, what would you do in those situations? Makes you think, even if it’s just for a hot minute.
Then there’s “What Would You Do (Acappella).” I gotta admit, this version slaps in its own weird way. Stripping away the beat forces you to focus on the lyrics and the delivery. Without the bassline punching you in the chest, you notice how tight the verses are. Mariah’s voice feels even more soulful here, almost haunting. It’s not something I’d throw on at a party, but late-night headphone sessions? Perfect.
Now, the production across the album ain’t groundbreaking, but it doesn’t need to be. It serves the mood—dark, reflective, and unapologetically real. There’s an authenticity to it that keeps you hooked. Even the instrumental version has its moments, especially if you’re into dissecting how beats come together.
Here’s the thing about What Would U Do: it’s not trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it’s reminding you why the wheel works so damn well. The collabs feel natural, not forced, and Damizza holds his own alongside these heavy hitters.
Funny enough, listening to this album made me realize something kinda random. We don’t really get projects like this anymore—where pop royalty and OG Hip Hop legends share space so effortlessly. Feels like back then, genres didn’t have walls. Artists just did what felt right. Maybe we need more of that today. Or maybe I’m just overthinking it. Either way, What Would U Do deserves a spot in your rotation if you’re into music that tells a story without holding back.
Oh, and shoutout to whoever decided to include both the radio edit and the acappella. Bold move, but it pays off.