Hip Hop Vibe’s Artist of the Year: Game

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

In 2012, Game lived up to his name as it belonged to him. Game started 2012 closing out The R.E.D. Album. Kendrick Lamar was already making moves, but when Game chose “The City” as his final single, it opened up new avenues for him.

Along with releasing “The City” as a single and the music video, Game invited VH1 with him for “Behind the Music.” During the episode, Game announced California Republic, his new mixtape. The mixtape was the prequel to Jesus Piece.

Initially known as F.I.V.E. (Fear is Victory’s Evolution), Game planned to take hip hop over with this album. Game turned heads with “Celebration” before fans even heard it, with Chris Brown, Tyga, Lil Wayne, and Wiz Khalifa featured on it. When the single was released, Game showed just how much clout he held.

During the summer, however, Game found a unique way to keep himself relevant. Having a longstanding feud with fellow Los Angeles rapper, 40 Glocc, Game approached him after leaving the party of a mutual friend. Game and his Black Wall Street crew jumped 40 Glocc, forcing him to run and it was all caught on tape. Fans have debated about the video, but it only heightened interest in Game’s upcoming album.

It turned out, 40 Glocc would not be the only foe Game had to contend with. Shyne, a longtime friend and supporter of all things Game, spoke out and called Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d. city “trash.” MTV spoke to Game about what Shyne said and he sent a subtle threat to his friend, which led to the two engaging in a high-profile feud. 50 Cent would also re-start his beef with Game through his “My Life” single. All of this taking place in the weeks before Jesus Piece, Game accepted the promotion.

Earlier this month, Game released Jesus Piece, which was one of 2012’s best albums. The album capped off a run Game started early this year. Many years, Game has dominated, but contended against other big names. But, when it comes to a complete start to finish, Game earns Hip Hop Vibe’s Artist of the Year title.

Watch music videos of Game in 2012 below:

Watch “The City” by Game ft. Kendrick Lamar below:

Watch “Celebration” by Game ft. Chris Brown, Tyga, Lil Wayne, and Wiz Khalifa below:

Watch “I Remember” by Game ft. Young Jeezy and Future below: