Tyler, The Creator is a multi-faceted artist who has continuously redefined his sound, pushing boundaries in both hip-hop and pop. Known for his raw lyricism and bold production choices, Tyler’s music often deals with themes of self-discovery, heartbreak, and identity. IGOR, his fifth studio album, represents a significant departure from his earlier abrasive rap work, embracing a more soulful and experimental direction.

IGOR, released in May 2019, is a deeply personal and conceptual album that centres around the complexities of a doomed romantic relationship. Tyler uses the character of Igor as a symbolic representation of the darker, more apathetic side of himself as he grapples with unrequited love. The album’s narrative unfolds in stages, with Tyler experiencing everything from infatuation and jealousy to anger and eventual acceptance of the end of the relationship.

‍

Musically, IGOR blends neo-soul, R&B, and pop, featuring lush synths and distorted vocals that give the album a dreamlike, otherworldly feel. Tracks like "Earfquake" and "New Magic Wand" highlight Tyler’s emotional vulnerability while playing with genre boundaries, creating a sound that is both heartfelt and experimental. "A Boy is a Gun" explores the danger and allure of love, using a metaphor that flips the traditional "girl as a gun" trope. The track’s soulful production adds a layer of complexity to the emotional narrative.

‍

One of the standout elements of IGOR is how Tyler downplays his own presence, allowing the production and arrangement to take centre stage. Guests like Kanye West and Playboi Carti make uncredited appearances, further enhancing the collaborative and immersive nature of the album without overshadowing its central themes.

‍

In IGOR, Tyler explores heartbreak not through the lens of rap bravado, but with raw, honest emotion. It is this vulnerability and his willingness to experiment with sound that has made IGOR a critical and commercial success, cementing Tyler as an artist unafraid to evolve​.

‍

You can stream IGOR on Spotify & Apple Music