DJ Khaled’s thirteenth studio album, “God Did,” release on August 26, 2022, is now certified Gold in the U.S. by The Recording Industry Association Of America. The award was given on Wednesday December 6, 2023 for sales and streams album equivalent units of 500,000.
The We the Best Music/Epic Records project was nominated for five awards at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album and Song of the Year for the title track, which features a star-studded lineup of Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, John Legend, Fridayy and 5 minute verse by Jay-Z.
With a runtime of 57 minutes and 11 seconds, “God Did” blends hip-hop and trap and dancehall with features from Skillibeng, Buju Banton, Capleton, Bounty Killer, Sizzla on the track “These Streets Know My Name“.
When the album was released it went No. 1 in Jamaica and 84 other countries.
After the Grammys earlier the year Khaled told the Recording Academy, “I listen to reggae music only and dancehall and reggae music in my whole house every day, nonstop,” he shares. “I was raised on it. I’m part of sound culture from a kid, from like 14 years old to where I’m at now. I was in all these dances DJing and cutting dubs, so it’s a big part of my story and I’ll never forget where I come from.
“However, today, December 7, marks the one-year anniversary since Sizzla set fire to the plaques for DJ Khaled’s previous albums, “Father of Ashad” and “Grateful,” on which Sizzla contributed verses for the tracks “Holy Mountain” and “I’m so Grateful,” respectively. DJ Khaled had sent the plaques to Sizzla years after Grateful was certified Platinum on August 23, 2017 and 2X Platinum in 2022, while Father of Ashad was certified platinum on May 17, 2020. In a heated moment, he shouted, “Yuh nuh di best, Yuh a di worst! Weh yuh feel like DJ Khaled? Yuh cyah style Sizzla? a mi buss yuh! August Town buss yuh,” as he tossed the RIAA certified plaques into the flames.
Expressing his disappointment and shame for the Palestinian-American Hip Hop producer delay and disregard for his hard work Sizzla continued, “mi can’t even see mi name… a now yuh a sen plaque come gi mi? Bun plaque.”
Khaled never addressed the incident publicly and it’s not clear whether he will send the Gold certified commemoration plaque for God Did album to the Regge star.
Other songs on the album include the lead single “Staying Alive,” featuring Drake and Lil Baby, and “Big Time,” where Future and Lil Baby joined forces with DJ Khaled to deliver a chart-topping hit.
Other producers on the album include industry heavyweights like Dr. Dre & The ICU, Kanye West, Nick Mira, Tim Suby, and many more.
According to DJ Khaled, “God Did” revolves around the theme of the constant pursuit of connection and gratitude toward a higher power. The album reflects Khaled’s personal journey, acknowledging a divine force that believed in him when others did not. As a devout Muslim, Khaled openly expresses his commitment to prayer and credits his resilience to his faith. In his own words, “God has always told me to keep going.”
The project serves as a follow-up to DJ Khaled’s previous album, “Khaled Khaled,” released just a year before. The artist emphasizes the importance of resilience and forward momentum, stating, “When times get hard, I go harder. When times get great, I go even harder.”
Star-Studded Collaborations: “God Did” features an impressive array of guest appearances, including notable artists such as Drake, Eminem, Kanye West, Future, Lil Baby, SZA, Travis Scott, and many more. The collaboration showcases DJ Khaled’s ability to bring together diverse talents, resulting in a tapestry of musical influences and styles.
Conclusion: “God Did” stands as a testament to DJ Khaled’s ability to blend spirituality, resilience, and musical innovation. With its powerful singles, diverse production, and star-studded collaborations, the album solidifies DJ Khaled’s position as a maestro in the contemporary music landscape.
