T.I. significantly impacted the hip-hop landscape with the release of his third studio album, Urban Legend, on March 2, 2004. This album played a crucial role in his transition from a regional artist to a national icon.
Celebrating 21 Years of Urban Legend
Released through his Grand Hustle label in partnership with Atlantic Records, Urban Legend debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200. It quickly ascended to the top of both the Top R&B and Hip Hop charts and the Top Rap Albums chart. This milestone coincided with a period when Atlanta’s music scene was gaining national prominence.
Key Singles and Achievements
The album produced several successful singles, each contributing to T.I.’s burgeoning career. The first single, Bring Em Out, became T.I.’s first top ten hit. Featuring a sample from Jay-Z’s “What More Can I Say“, it achieved gold status, selling over 500,000 copies.
- Second single: U Don’t Know Me
– Peaked in the top 25 of the Billboard charts
– Achieved platinum status with over 1 million units sold - Third single: ASAP
– Also charted nationally
– Earned gold certification
By the end of its run, Urban Legend was certified platinum internationally, further solidifying T.I.’s reputation in the music industry.
A Legacy in Trap Music
All three singles received numerous nominations at prestigious award shows, including the Grammy Awards and MTV Video Music Awards. The album even garnered a nomination for Street Anthem of the Year at the Vibe Awards.
Now, two decades later, Urban Legend remains pivotal in the evolution of trap music. It marked T.I.’s emergence as a mainstream star and a cultural force, influencing the sound of Atlanta for future generations.
