Juicy J just flipped the script on all of us. The Memphis rap legend, known for crunk anthems and club-shaking bass—dropped his brand-new jazz album, Caught Up In This Illusion, at midnight on Friday, August 15th, and it’s a whole new mood.
This isn’t just a quick genre jump for the sake of headlines, Juicy calls it a true reflection of his “art and emotions,” blending his hip-hop DNA with lush jazz instrumentation.
Think smooth sax, warm piano chords, guitars that sing, and cellos that add that rich, deep texture.
For this project, he pulled in some heavy hitters, Grammy-winning bassist Endea Owens, lyrical powerhouse Black Thought, and keyboard virtuoso Cory Henry. Together, they crafted a sound that feels intimate yet still carries Juicy J’s unmistakable energy.
If this feels familiar, it’s because Juicy already tested the waters with Ravenite Social Club, a jazz-rap album that included a touching tribute to his late Three 6 Mafia sister-in-music, Gangsta Boo, on the track “To You” with Robert Glasper and Emi Secrest.
But Caught Up In This Illusion goes even deeper—leaning fully into live instrumentation and soulful arrangements.
Whether you’re a day-one Juicy J fan or just here for the unexpected, one thing is clear, he’s not afraid to take risks, and this latest release proves his artistry can’t be boxed in. So, go ahead, pour a glass of wine, press play, and let Juicy J’s jazz era surprise you.
Stream Caught Up In This Illusion now:
Featured Image Credit: Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images
