Released April 28, 2009 Length 50:23 Release date 28 April 2009 | Recorded 2008–2009 | |
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The Shining(2009) American Life/Lives(2017) Genres Hip hop music, Horrorcore, Midwest hip hop Similar Violent J albums, Horrorcore albums | ||
The Shining is the debut full length solo album of American rapper Violent J, it is his 3rd overall solo album. Released on April 28, 2009, it is the rapper's first full-length album and third solo release overall, following the extended plays Enter the Ghetto Zone and Wizard of the Hood. A music video for "Jealousy" was released on May 2009.
Contents
Violent j the shining
Production
Violent J states that he was not interested in developing a career as a solo performer, "but it was my turn at bat, and I wanted to deliver for any Violent J fans that might be out there". Unlike Wizard of the Hood, The Shining does not focus on a single concept or storyline, but instead focuses on multiple stories, themes, and subjects. The title of the album refers to charisma and confidence.
Violent J attempted to provide a variance for listeners by performing with different rapping styles on each track. Mike E. Clark produced the majority of the album, with Eric Davie providing additional production work. "Fight Club" features guest appearances by Esham and Necro. "Home Invasion" features an appearance by Shaggy 2 Dope. "Candyland" was developed during long late night recording sessions with Esham.
Release
The album was originally intended to be released in October 2008, followed by a 20 plus date solo tour across the country. Due to his dislike of touring solo, and wanting to focus more on Insane Clown Posse as a whole, Violent J decided to give away free copies of an early version of the album to those that attended the ninth annual Gathering of the Juggalos seminar.
Due to popular demand, it was announced that Psychopathic Records would release the album nationwide, and it was also given its final title. According to J, the final version of the album is significantly different from the pre-release version, and features improved sound quality, in addition to four new songs not present on the pre-release version. The album was released on J's 37th birthday.
Reception
The Shining peaked at #5 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums chart, #14 on the Top Rap Albums chart, #28 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and #48 on the Billboard 200, with 10,000 copies sold in its first week.
Songs
1Intro2:01
2Wake Up3:50
3Fight Club3:27