“Awaken My Love!”: Dukes react to Childish Gambino’s new album

Photo+by+Mike+Windle%2FGetty+Images+for+GQ+Magazine

Getty Images for GQ Magazine

Photo by Mike Windle/Getty Images for GQ Magazine

“Watching haters wonder why Gambino got the game locked?” Childish Gambino’s new album, “Awaken My Love!” has been out in the public for almost a month.

Donald Glover, or more recognizable by his stage name Childish Gambino, released his third studio album, “Awaken, My Love!” on Dec. 2.

Though his last EP, “Kauai”, was released in 2014, it has been three years since he released his previous full album, “Because the Internet” in 2013.

As opposed to his usual hip hop or rap style that he has showcased in past EPs and albums, “Awaken, My Love!” can be described as a psychedelic soul, funk or R&B styled piece–a surprise to some of his fans.

“It was pretty different than his usual stuff,” said Hannah Ryan, senior. “I really like the song Redbone, but I didn’t really love any of the songs as much as I did in his other albums.”

Although his fans still enjoy his previous albums, those who had never listened to any of Childish Gambino’s songs also had a chance to react to him for the first time.

Childish Gambino’s cover art for his latest album, “Awaken My Love!”

“The beat is relaxing but I’m not a fan of anything else,” said Jonathan Flores, junior. “To me, what he is singing about is just not my type. I prefer listening to J. Cole or Drake when it comes to songs about life and love.”

Even though loyal listeners are important for the success of musical careers, some artists have different purposes for releasing certain works, and want to expand their horizons.

“I think when artists change their style, they are taking a risk and sometimes they’ll lose fans, but gain others in the process,” said Yizcel Carrera, senior. “However, music is about making something that resonates with yourself anyways.”

Despite the disapproval of some listeners, according to Nielsen SoundScan, “‘Awaken My Love!’ debuted with 101,000 units of total consumption”, and can be found at the number one spot on Billboard’s R&B chart.

Search up Childish Gambino’s, “Awaken My Love!” to decide for yourself.