"Idlewild" is the sixth and final studio album by the American hip hop duo OutKast, released on August 22, 2006. It serves as both a soundtrack for the musical film of the same name and a standalone album.
The album showcases OutKast’s distinctive approach, integrating various genres such as jazz, blues, swing, and soul. It explores themes related to the music industry and features a blend of musical styles not commonly associated with hip hop. While some tracks were featured in the film *Idlewild*, the album includes additional songs that were not part of the movie.
Idlewild debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 196,000 copies in its first week. The album's commercial success was notable despite its minimal impact internationally. It has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for shipments of one million copies in the United States.
Critics had mixed opinions about Idlewild. The unconventional musical style and loose thematic structure received some criticism, but the album was generally well-received. Many reviews praised the duo's ambition and experimentation, even if the album's eclectic nature wasn't universally embraced.
The album produced five singles that achieved moderate success on the Billboard charts, though none of them reached the heights of previous OutKast hits.
Overall, Idlewild stands as a testament to OutKast’s versatility and willingness to explore different musical landscapes, closing out their discography with a project that reflects their innovative spirit.
