by Kerry Torpey on March 15, 2018
Arts & Entertainment
by Julia Vaccarella ’20
A&E Staff
Michigan native Sir Robert Bryson Hall, who is more commonly known as Logic, released a mixtape entitled Bobby Tarantino II on March 9. The set comes shortly after the release of singles “44 More” and “Everyday” which includes a feature with Marshmello. The mixtape is also a follow-up to Logic’s 2016 mixtape Bobby Tarantino, and the cover art on the two mixtapes is blatantly similar in its projected message.
A large part of Logic’s recent success can visibly be attributed to his popular song “1-800-273-8255,” which has become an anthem for suicide awareness and mental health. Logic performed the song at both the MTV Video Music Awards and the Grammys. His mixtape was preceded by the album Everybody, which also includes “1-800-273-8255.”
The release of Bobby Tarantino II has been apparent for some time, and Logic himself even debuted a video hinting at it. Even more so, many fans were unexpectedly surprised at the tape’s quick release, especially so soon after releasing several singles. In addition to production by Marshmello, the mixtape also includes features from Big Sean, Wiz Khalifa, 2 Chainz, and Elton John.
Bobby Tarantino is not an actual person, but rather Logic’s alter ego. Fans have said that the name Bobby is a combination of Logic and his real name, Robert. This identity bridge is fitting because the type of music that Logic produces on mixtapes like Bobby Tarantino II is much different than his studio albums, such as Everybody.
Everybody is undoubtedly more emotional in terms of both the lyrics that Logic raps to and equally in message. In addition to advocating for suicide awareness and stigmatization of mental illness, Logic also emphasized racial issues on this album. Bobby Tarantino and Bobby Tarantino II take on a completely different tone and message, however, which speaks to Logic’s versatility in his lyrics and as an artist. The fact that Logic sings and raps on this mixtape is a further testament to this.
In addition to the overall message of his songs, Logic has also done some experimentation with production. Many of the songs on Bobby Tarantino II have electronic, trap undertones, and it is highly likely that this is due to the influence and work of Marshmello. This is particularly noticeable on the song “Boomtrap Protocol.” At the same time, Logic does not stray away too far from what he is best known for: hip-hop. On one of the most well-received song of the mixtape, “Wassup,” Logic and Detroit rapper Big Sean go back and forth.
Logic has consistently talked about the gratitude that he has for his fans and supporters. He recently tweeted, “Growing with you has been amazing. And you’re why I do this. To create any kind of music I want, from boom bap to the turn up to the radio has been such a blessing! Thanks for letting me be me and supporting me always.”