The Mind of Mannie Fresh

A genius producer known for crafting every single one of Cash Money's smash hits ("Bling Bling," "Back That Azz Up," "Ha," etc), Mannie Fresh is a true New Orleans hip-hop pioneer, who started DJing and putting out records back in the ‘80s. His electro-infused sensibilities, rapid-fire 808 fills, and wild keyboards dominated the charts for years, and influenced countless beatmakers who came up in his wake. On this, his first "solo" album, he unleashes an overwhelming 30 tracks, enlisting lyrical assistance from Lil Wayne, Petey Pablo, David Banner, Bun B, and Baby the Birdman. On the mic, his style is highly charismatic and generally hilarious, with an unusual but intriguing mix of self-deprecating humor and abundant boasting, comedy-infused raps, and over-the-top R&B meanderings. This album wasn't a huge commercial hit, and Mannie left the troubled label shortly after its release, but there are some really fantastic tracks on here, and it's difficult not to crack a chuckle at some of the outlandish wordplay. Check out the gearhead epic "How We Ride," the scratch-filled "The DJ," and the triumphant lead single "Real Big."