Sunday funday
Spike Lee’s latest crime thriller, Highest 2 Lowest, delivers not only cinematic prowess but also fresh musical energy—thanks to A$AP Rocky, who contributes two new solo tracks to the film’s soundtrack. The songs, “Trunks” and “Both Eyes Closed,” highlight Rocky’s dual roles as both actor and musical artist in this reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low for modern-day New York City.
A$AP Rocky’s New Additions: “Trunks” & “Both Eyes Closed”
Rocky, playing the antagonist—an ambitious kidnapper-rapper named Yung Felon—brings two completely distinct vibes to the soundtrack:
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“Trunks” is packed with the bold, assertive energy fans know him for. It features a sharp verse that may be a sly jab at Drake:
“Cookie cutter n**gas, soda pop, yeah, they Canada Dry.”
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“Both Eyes Closed”, by contrast, is more introspective and laid-back. Across a hypnotic groove, Rocky reflects on deeper struggles:
“Seen some st that made me cry, baby die from genocide / Middle finger to the man, fk the klan, I know you hate my kind…”
Both tracks are produced by longtime collaborator Kelvin Krash, offering a balanced blend of Rocky’s swagger and soul.
The Soundtrack’s Broader Musical Landscape
The Highest 2 Lowest soundtrack is rich and varied, spanning 19 tracks that go well beyond Rocky’s contributions. It features original songs from artists like Aiyana‑Lee and Jensen McRae, and is accompanied by an original score from Howard Drossin, plus an EP by jazz-influenced pianist Fergus McCreadie Trio.
Rocky’s tracks sit amid this tapestry, enhancing the film’s mood both narratively and emotionally. Hypebeast emphasizes that “Trunks” appears as track 8 and “Both Eyes Closed” as track 14, contributing a clear arc between confidence and contemplation.
Context: Rocky’s Ongoing Creative Arc
The release of these two tracks arrives amid growing excitement for Rocky’s long-teased upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb. While the LP still lacks a confirmed release date, Rocky has dropped several singles in recent months, including “Highjack,” “Tailor Swif,” “Ruby Rosary” (featuring J. Cole), and “Pray4DaGang” (featuring KayCyy).
These new soundtrack tracks may serve as tantalizing glimpses at the creative direction Rocky is pursuing in between album cycles.
In Summary
Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest is not just a visual spectacle but a sonic showcase, with A$AP Rocky contributing “Trunks” and “Both Eyes Closed”—two songs that reflect his versatility as both storyteller and performer. While “Trunks” brings swagger and punch, “Both Eyes Closed” offers thoughtful introspection. As we anticipate Don’t Be Dumb, these tracks keep Rocky’s artistic fire well and truly lit.
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Sources & Further Reading
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Pitchfork: A$AP Rocky shares “Trunks” and “Both Eyes Closed” for Highest 2 Lowest
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Rap-Up: Breakdown of the two tracks and their emotional layers
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Hypebeast: Details on soundtrack composition and track placements
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Wikipedia: Insights on soundtrack structure and releases
Last Updated on 6 days by %Sunday funday%
