Remember 2016? It was a golden era for hip-hop, with artists like Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, and Kodak Black emerging as leaders of a new generation. Amidst this vibrant landscape stood Desiigner, the artist behind the infectious hits “Panda” and “Timmy Turner.” While many of his peers from that year’s XXL Freshman list have solidified their stardom, Desiigner’s career trajectory has been a rollercoaster of immense highs and challenging lows. Now, however, signs point towards a potential epic comeback.
The Meteoric Rise of ‘Panda’
Desiigner’s journey is inextricably linked with Kanye West’s ‘The Life of Pablo.’ After releasing “Panda” on SoundCloud in late 2015, the track caught the attention of West, who signed Desiigner to his GOOD Music label in February 2016. “Panda” was then repurposed on “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 2,” and its infectious energy, unique ad-libs, and distinctive sound captivated listeners. Despite early comparisons to Future, which some perceived as Desiigner being a “cheap copy,” “Panda” broke free and soared to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, even surpassing Rihanna’s “Work.” This five-times platinum single remains a nostalgic anthem, a testament to its massive impact.
The sudden spotlight thrust Desiigner onto the global stage. However, his raw energy and limited beyond-the-hit persona meant his early performances weren’t always met with universal acclaim. The pressure was on to deliver a follow-up hit and a full-length album.
Struggles with Follow-Up Success and Industry Pressures
Desiigner’s first mixtape, ‘New English,’ released in June 2016, fell short of expectations. The 11-track project was criticized for its undercooked ideas and short song lengths, reigniting the Future comparisons and fueling “one-hit wonder” allegations. Just days before, his viral XXL Freestyle, rapping about Timmy Turner to a non-existent beat, had garnered millions of views and led to the eventual release of the hit song “Timmy Turner.” However, finding sustained success proved challenging.
In 2017, attempts to replicate “Panda’s” success with tracks like “Outlet” yielded moderate results but didn’t recapture the same chart dominance. As the hip-hop landscape shifted, focusing on artists like XXXTentacion, Trippie Redd, and 6ix9ine, Desiigner seemed to fade from the spotlight. The “clout era” was in full swing, and he was notably absent.
The GOOD Music Oversight and Personal Struggles
The release of his project ‘Life Of Desiigner’ in 2018 was particularly disheartening. While Kanye West was releasing a string of albums from his GOOD Music roster, Desiigner’s seven-track project, lacking any production from West, was quietly dropped with minimal promotion. It felt like a forgotten release, overshadowed by West’s own focus on himself. This lack of support, coupled with personal mental health challenges and family issues, led Desiigner to leave GOOD Music in 2019, seeking what was best for him after feeling met with silence when seeking guidance.
The following years saw Desiigner release EPs but struggle to regain significant traction. The situation took a deeply concerning turn in 2023 when he was charged with indecent exposure after an incident on a Delta Airlines flight. While he didn’t have to register as a sex offender, he voluntarily checked into a mental health facility and issued a public apology. This shocking event, unfortunately, became a defining moment, often overshadowing his musical contributions and causing many fans to disengage.
Glimmers of Hope and a Potential Comeback
Despite the setbacks, Desiigner has continued to create music. His 2023 full-length project, ‘ii,’ features a track called “Money Time” that has garnered over a million views on YouTube, offering a glimmer of hope. His story is a poignant reminder of the intense pressures within the music industry, where immense talent can be overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of hits and a lack of support during difficult times. Mentors and peers, like Kanye West, looked the other way, leaving artists like Desiigner to navigate their struggles alone.
However, recent developments suggest a comeback might be on the horizon. A new freestyle released on Instagram showcases Desiigner rapping over traditional production, a departure from his signature sound. His bars and flows demonstrate a level of talent and growth previously unseen, leaving listeners in awe. Coupled with a similarly vibed track called “Talking To Jesus,” these releases indicate a significant artistic evolution. This renewed focus and demonstrated talent have people genuinely rooting for him, making a comeback seem not just possible, but perhaps even inevitable.
Do you believe Desiigner is on the path to a major comeback? What are your favorite Desiigner tracks, past or present? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
