by Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$ is back with another one. His latest EP, Pardon Me, just hit streaming platforms, packing three tracks that showcase his sharp lyricism and undeniable presence. The project includes the title track, “Pardon Me,” alongside two previously released singles, “Sorry Not Sorry” and “The Ruler’s Back.”
On the title track, Joey delivers with confidence over a rich, layered instrumental. “It’s a twenty-v-one-man army. N**gas tried to mark us out like Garvey,” he spits, reinforcing his hunger and self-made dominance in the rap game. The EP arrives at a time when hip-hop is witnessing some intense competition, with the recent Kendrick Lamar and Drake feud sparking new energy in the culture. Joey steps right into the mix, throwing his own weight around with bars that assert his place among the greats.
“The Ruler’s Back” has already caught attention, with Joey boldly claiming the “King of New York” title and taking what some see as subtle jabs at the West Coast. Fans have been speculating whether this track will stir up responses from other artists. When asked about his approach to the EP, Joey kept it real: “I saw what the beef did for Kendrick and Drake, and I decided to lay my claim for being one of the best in the game this year.”
Sonically, Pardon Me strikes a balance between old-school boom-bap and contemporary rap energy. While “Sorry Not Sorry” and “The Ruler’s Back” hit hard with aggressive beats and bold delivery, “Pardon Me” takes a more laid-back approach, proving Joey’s versatility and effortless ability to switch styles.
But Joey’s not just dominating music—he’s making major moves in TV, too. Since his acting debut in Mr. Robot (2016), he’s been stacking up roles, from BET’s Boomerang to playing Inspectah Deck in Hulu’s Wu-Tang: An American Saga. His performance in the Oscar-winning short film Two Distant Strangers put his range on full display, but it’s his role as Unique in Power Book III: Raising Kanan that’s been a real game-changer. With Season 4 dropping on March 7, 2025, Joey teased a major shift in his character, saying, “The Unique that everybody knows is dead… What people can expect is a way more hyperactive, irritable, just rageful guy.”
With Pardon Me, Joey Bada$$ is keeping his foot on the gas—whether it’s music or acting, he’s making sure his presence is felt. The EP is available now on all major streaming platforms, so tap in and see why Joey’s claiming 2025 as his year.
Listen on Spotify:
Listen on Apple Music:
