I’ve never really thought much of French Montana. I definitely have had my phases of liking his music, starting with his raucous club banger “Pop That” back in 2013. The first time I heard it I was drunk as hell at a party, and couldn’t help but feel like a fuckin’ boss with French and co. blaring through the speakers. He left something to be desired lyrically, but the role he played as a hitmaker and hook ace was undeniable.
Montana has held a strong fan base for a long while now, but has especially come into his own in the past couple of years, which has led up to his bounds of success so far in 2016. He’s had a stronger seven months than arguably any other hip-hop artist in the game besides juggernauts like Kendrick Lamar and Drake; his Max B-hosted Wave Gods mixtape still making ripples five months after it’s release. More than that, the standout single from the project “Lockjaw” featuring Kodak Black has been steadily climbing up the Billboard Hot 100, currently holding the #73 spot.
It’s the first time French has had a record touch the charts since January of 2015, though that was a short-lived streak.
In fact, the only track he’s ever had on the Billboard Hot 100 longer than a week was “Pop That,” which peaked at #36 back in 2012—and that was with features from Lil Wayne, Rick Ross AND Drake. His latest hit “Lockjaw” still holds a feature, but it’s quite the opposite of three superstars. Kodak Black is one of the hottest, most loved up-and-comers of this generation, not to mention a 2016 XXL Freshman. French went with chemistry instead of headliners, and the end result is a tremendous record that’s primed to keep climbing up the charts for awhile.
Toss in the fact that the newly-freed Gucci Mane just hopped on the official remix, “Lockjaw” is sure to get an extra boost in the coming weeks.
Especially with music from the incarcerated Kodak being at a high demand, “Lockjaw” doesn’t show signs of slowing any time soon, though it will likely be surpassed by “No Shopping,” Montana’s hot-off-the-press, Drake-assisted banger. It’s a sleek and braggadocios showing from the Coke Boys and OVO connection, who display some of the same chemistry that was found on “Lockjaw” with Kodak.
It’s clear that French’s years in the game have paid off and he’s finally settled into a solid lane and direction with his music, and we still have another half a year to go. I’m sure we can expect a lot more work from him soon, and honestly, I’m excited.