"Stankonia" is the fourth studio album by the American hip hop duo Outkast, released on October 31, 2000, by LaFace Records and Arista Records. The album was recorded at their newly acquired Atlanta facility, Stankonia Studios, which allowed for greater creative freedom and featured production from Earthtone III and Organized Noize.
In creating the follow-up to their acclaimed 1998 album Aquemini, Outkast aimed for an expansive and experimental sound, blending various styles such as funk, rave, psychedelia, gospel, and rock within a Dirty South hip hop framework. André 3000 began moving towards a more melodic vocal style, while Big Boi and other producers adjusted to this shift. The lyrics tackled a diverse range of themes, including sexuality, politics, and African-American culture. The album also featured collaborations with local musicians discovered during club visits in Atlanta.
Stankonia received universal acclaim and is considered one of the greatest hip hop albums ever. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, selling over 530,000 copies in its first week, and included three successful singles: "B.O.B", "Ms. Jackson", and "So Fresh, So Clean." "Ms. Jackson" became the group's first number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The album won Best Rap Album and Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Ms. Jackson" at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards. It has been ranked in various lists of the greatest albums of all time and was reissued for its 20th anniversary in 2020 with previously unreleased remixes.
The duo purchased Stankonia Studios in 1998, where they had previously recorded together. The name "Stankonia" was coined by André 3000, symbolizing a space for creative expression. Recording began in spring 1999 and lasted about a year, allowing for extensive experimentation without time pressures. The duo conducted "vibe sessions" with local artists and incorporated new influences, leading to a faster, more energetic sound compared to their earlier works.
Musically, Stankonia features elements of drum and bass, with high-energy tempos reflecting the chaotic atmosphere of the late 1990s. The album includes diverse genres and is influenced by artists like Jimi Hendrix and Prince. Lyrically, it combines various styles, addressing social issues and offering a nuanced perspective on African American life. Songs like "Gasoline Dreams" critique materialism, while "Ms. Jackson" serves as an apology to a child's grandmother.
The album's themes often subvert common hip hop tropes, exploring women's experiences and challenging misogynistic narratives. Tracks like "Toilet Tisha" empathize with vulnerable women, and "Slum Beautiful" portrays multifaceted characters beyond mere stereotypes. Overall, Stankonia stands out for its innovative sound and profound lyrical content.
