"Awaken, My Love!"
by Childish Gambino
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 448 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 410 out of 448
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 448
  3. Negative: 18 out of 448
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  1. acsfernalld
    Dec 5, 2016
    10
    Great blend of different genres, time periods, and sounds. Immaculate vocal range. Excellent instrumentation and production throughout. A real sonic masterpiece.
  2. iSimon420
    Jan 24, 2017
    10
    This album is a complete masterpiece. Childish Gambino transports the listener into another world, filled with tight and rock solid funk beats, interspersed with psychedelic tunes that stretch your mind into outer space. Gambino combines rap, soul, funk, and rock, all mixed together in a harmonious blend thus unmatched in the hip-hop landscape. A true diamond in the rough, and worth everyThis album is a complete masterpiece. Childish Gambino transports the listener into another world, filled with tight and rock solid funk beats, interspersed with psychedelic tunes that stretch your mind into outer space. Gambino combines rap, soul, funk, and rock, all mixed together in a harmonious blend thus unmatched in the hip-hop landscape. A true diamond in the rough, and worth every moment of your time and money. A purchase you will never regret!… Expand
  3. myfaultstudios
    Apr 16, 2017
    10
    Gambino has made some great hip hop but this is unlike anything I've heard before. RNB? Soul? All I know is that it is an incredible grower. I appreciate albums that I can listen to from beginning to end.
  4. Animase91
    Dec 2, 2016
    10
    I'm not gonna lie, when I heard the first single, Me And Your Mama, I didn't like the new direction Gambino was going in. I thought we were gonna have another Speedin Bullet 2 Heaven on us and that would've sucked. Big time. I still listened to the album on release and it blew my mind to pieces. It's probably my choice for AOTY. This album made my jump around my room, grooving with theI'm not gonna lie, when I heard the first single, Me And Your Mama, I didn't like the new direction Gambino was going in. I thought we were gonna have another Speedin Bullet 2 Heaven on us and that would've sucked. Big time. I still listened to the album on release and it blew my mind to pieces. It's probably my choice for AOTY. This album made my jump around my room, grooving with the music. I'm also a big Prince fan and this felt like a Prince-like record at times. Give this a shot, it's worth it!… Expand
  5. redjackb123
    Dec 15, 2016
    10
    Gambino is back with something much more different than Kauai and Because The Internet he is truly an amazingly unique artist with a beautiful voice and the whole album is a beautiful experience Best Gambino work since Because the internet
  6. HugoPavi
    Dec 2, 2016
    10
    Objectively the best thing Gambino has ever done. If you were expecting a rap album you will be sorely disappointed, but what we got is even better: an operatic album full of psychedelic soul, rock, and funk that is always engaging and interesting throughout its 49 minutes. Comparisons to Funkadelic's Maggot Brain will be made, but I wouldn't call it a rip-off so much as it is an homage toObjectively the best thing Gambino has ever done. If you were expecting a rap album you will be sorely disappointed, but what we got is even better: an operatic album full of psychedelic soul, rock, and funk that is always engaging and interesting throughout its 49 minutes. Comparisons to Funkadelic's Maggot Brain will be made, but I wouldn't call it a rip-off so much as it is an homage to the sound of that era that updates it for modern times. If you are open-minded and have good taste, I can't imagine how you could dislike this album, it's simply great music and an awesome sonic experience!… Expand
  7. HASiiiDimension
    Dec 4, 2016
    10
    It is safe to say that this album really took me to a funky, groovy and outer space journey.

    Glover is the only Donald that we all acknowledge and love, hands down!
  8. allykordei
    Dec 2, 2016
    10
    Okay wow a legend and an amazing album. Every album he releases just gets better and better. Redbone, Stand Tall, and Baby Boy are my faves such a legend.
  9. cwright68
    Dec 3, 2016
    10
    First time listeners and long time Glover lovers will both be in for a welcomed surprise. The album has the feel of a well constructed concept album, with all the warm fuzzy familiarities of genres of days gone by. There's something for everyone... funk, world, hip-hop, rock, electronic, spooky space jazz. As out there as it is it's easy to digest, so much so that it's stayed on repeatFirst time listeners and long time Glover lovers will both be in for a welcomed surprise. The album has the feel of a well constructed concept album, with all the warm fuzzy familiarities of genres of days gone by. There's something for everyone... funk, world, hip-hop, rock, electronic, spooky space jazz. As out there as it is it's easy to digest, so much so that it's stayed on repeat since I first started it.… Expand
  10. Lazycatz06
    Dec 3, 2016
    10
    A little different from his usual work a little on the weird side, but still amazing. I love the Funk and soul-ish vibe this new album gives, and i hope his future work stays this way.
  11. jacksonschichel
    Feb 8, 2017
    10
    if this isn't the new era of r&b soul music I don't know what is. such a great album it's funky original and groovy. reminds me a lot of mo-town and prince
  12. marshall_nazari
    Feb 16, 2017
    10
    Donald Glover has poured his emotions into his latest album. The tracks read like a collection of short stories, bleeding together effortlessly through the underlying beats and melody. Whether you're listening track #6, "Redbone" which is born from Glover's effortless flow, or track #9 "Baby Boy" with a melancholy edge to it, this organic piece of oral poetry is flawless. Although it takesDonald Glover has poured his emotions into his latest album. The tracks read like a collection of short stories, bleeding together effortlessly through the underlying beats and melody. Whether you're listening track #6, "Redbone" which is born from Glover's effortless flow, or track #9 "Baby Boy" with a melancholy edge to it, this organic piece of oral poetry is flawless. Although it takes some time to get into due to the rawness of its content, "Awaken, My Love!" is without a doubt one of the most underrated gems of the past year.… Expand
  13. eNVyous
    May 2, 2017
    10
    At first, I was disgusted and hated this album, but over the course of a few weeks, I decided to try to listen to it and by god was I surprised at how good it actually was. Its funky rhythms and 70s aesthetic make it sound so... nostalgic and head-bobbingly good at the same time. Not many albums can do that nowadays, ya know. While others might disagree with me because of Glover's previousAt first, I was disgusted and hated this album, but over the course of a few weeks, I decided to try to listen to it and by god was I surprised at how good it actually was. Its funky rhythms and 70s aesthetic make it sound so... nostalgic and head-bobbingly good at the same time. Not many albums can do that nowadays, ya know. While others might disagree with me because of Glover's previous works as a rapper, you can't deny that it sounds at least decent enough for a second, third or maybe fourth listen. I respect Donald for going in this direction and trying something new and respect him even further for making something as good as Awaken, My Love.

    Please, give this album a listen.    … Expand
  14. jeanvaljean
    Oct 23, 2017
    10
    Going back old school but in it's own, very unique way. I felt this voodoo vibe that remind me of (great master of guitar and vocal) Jimmy Hendrix...and that could be enough for a huge compliment. My favorite album of 2016.
  15. ToiletBoy
    Dec 25, 2017
    10
    The perfect example that taking risks, being creative, and being smart can lead to greatness. The production is right up my alley. The warm bassline on California makes you dance, the rapid drums on Riot make you want to...y'know, the huge thick synths at the end of Stand Tall are epic and pretty, the insanely catchy chorus on Have Some Love is infectious. These are all amazing but theyThe perfect example that taking risks, being creative, and being smart can lead to greatness. The production is right up my alley. The warm bassline on California makes you dance, the rapid drums on Riot make you want to...y'know, the huge thick synths at the end of Stand Tall are epic and pretty, the insanely catchy chorus on Have Some Love is infectious. These are all amazing but they don't even compare to the PERFECT opener that is Me And Your Mama. That song is so freaking incredible i literally have no words. Easily Gambino's best album, without a doubt.… Expand
  16. Alessio99
    Jul 21, 2018
    10
    One of the most essential funk / r&b albums of the past decade. One of the best albums of either 2016 or 2017 and a must listen for Redbone alone, nevermind all the other jems on this project. Worked really well at the start of "GET OUT" too.
  17. desperate_derin
    May 29, 2020
    10
    It's not for everyone, but it's safe to say that Donald Glover and Ludwig Göransson's "Awaken, My Love!" is a modern masterpiece. This is one of those rare albums that transports the listener to a different world. Childish Gambino has seen a surge in artistry, and with a more mature outlook and iconic influences, his music deserves a chance from everyone now that he's found his voice.
  18. TheLoverBoy
    Aug 23, 2022
    10
    "Awaken my love" brings a feeling of something known but reinvented, the experience brought by childish gambino on this album is something unique and very pleasant to experience. "Awaken my love" isn't for everyone, it comes with some strong social criticism that reflects on the image of America at the time it was composed in a sequence of introspective songs. Finally we have a great"Awaken my love" brings a feeling of something known but reinvented, the experience brought by childish gambino on this album is something unique and very pleasant to experience. "Awaken my love" isn't for everyone, it comes with some strong social criticism that reflects on the image of America at the time it was composed in a sequence of introspective songs. Finally we have a great album that revives funk and soul music in its most interesting forms, for R&B lovers it's a full plate.… Expand
  19. DavidV293
    Dec 22, 2016
    9
    It's an artistic piece that is surely an instant classic for the music industry. Donald Glover/Childish Gambino has the style, the voice, and the catchy beats. The type of album you want to listen on a beautiful sunset while just chilling with your feet up. One of my personal favorites.
  20. draediamond
    Apr 24, 2018
    9
    If California wasn't on the album, he may well have a 10 from me but that song is terribly unavoidable. Aside form that, this album sees him take risks that are rare from an artist who has only made rap albums. A departure like this hasn't been seen since Kanye went from Graduation to 808s and Heartbreak and it's beautiful. Perfect balance on song subjects between love, race, and a varietyIf California wasn't on the album, he may well have a 10 from me but that song is terribly unavoidable. Aside form that, this album sees him take risks that are rare from an artist who has only made rap albums. A departure like this hasn't been seen since Kanye went from Graduation to 808s and Heartbreak and it's beautiful. Perfect balance on song subjects between love, race, and a variety of issues. I can hear strong D'angelo influences even though it's not on the same level.… Expand
  21. bsherman
    Dec 2, 2016
    9
    An expansive homage to funk-rock of the 70's, and to his recently come into the world child. Awaken, My Love is Gambino's departure from rap, and it's even better than I would have imagined. Voices reminiscent of Prince, George Clinton, and D'Angelo glide through the tracks, as Glover pours emotion into the songs. Some fans will be turned off, but I think that this is a greatAn expansive homage to funk-rock of the 70's, and to his recently come into the world child. Awaken, My Love is Gambino's departure from rap, and it's even better than I would have imagined. Voices reminiscent of Prince, George Clinton, and D'Angelo glide through the tracks, as Glover pours emotion into the songs. Some fans will be turned off, but I think that this is a great reinvigoration of past sounds.… Expand
  22. TheReviewer24
    Dec 3, 2016
    9
    He really branched out on this album. I was looking for one song where he was rapping, and of course there wasn't one but I was not disappointed when I heard the album. This album is absolutely outstanding. From the fantastic instrumentation to the whole album being for his newborn child. The only gripe I had was of course the song "California" and even though I understand the context IHe really branched out on this album. I was looking for one song where he was rapping, and of course there wasn't one but I was not disappointed when I heard the album. This album is absolutely outstanding. From the fantastic instrumentation to the whole album being for his newborn child. The only gripe I had was of course the song "California" and even though I understand the context I still can't go back to that song without flinching at least a little. Overall fantastic. 9/10… Expand
  23. MrMemeister
    Dec 2, 2016
    9
    *summary below*
    I have never been a huge Childish Gambino fan (even though i enjoyed him in 'Community' and 'Atlanta'), but after falling in love with the singles 'Me and Your Mama' and 'Redbone', "Awaken, My Love!" was one of my most anticipated albums for this month (December). Well, after a not-so-long wait, I can safely say "Awaken, My Love!" is one of the most enjoyable R&B albums of    *summary below*
    I have never been a huge Childish Gambino fan (even though i enjoyed him in 'Community' and 'Atlanta'), but after falling in love with the singles 'Me and Your Mama' and 'Redbone', "Awaken, My Love!" was one of my most anticipated albums for this month (December). Well, after a not-so-long wait, I can safely say "Awaken, My Love!" is one of the most enjoyable R&B albums of the year. 'Me and Your Mama' kicks things off at a high note, with an energetic performance from Gambino and great instrumentation. From there, tracks like 'Have Some Love' and 'Boogieman' continue the 70s funk aesthetic, with joyous beats, colourful horns and refreshingly chill vocals (which Gambino does pretty well). 'Riot', while being a bit too short to actually develop into something amazing, still manages to be enjoyable with some help from George Clinton. After 'Redbone'(maybe the best track out of all of them), the album takes a sentimental and emotional turn. Tracks such as 'Baby Boy' and 'Stand Tall' still continue the heavy funk/soul influence though(with 'Stand Tall' having a particulaty beautiful performance from Gambino and the background vocals). 'Zombies' also features very slick guitar riffs and bouncy synth licks. Out of all of the tracks though, 'California' and 'The Night Me and Your Mama Met' might be the least enjoyable out of the 11 included. 'California', while having a very catchy, tropical groove, features very unusual vocals from Gambino, who sounds like he's parodying the rest of his performances on this record than actually giving one. 'The Night Me and Your Mama Met' is the only intrumental cut, and hile i would've prefered a Gambino performance along with the catchy chord progression. All in all, though, Gambino has delivered something truly unique to 2016's already amazing catalog of music, while also reinventing his sound for the better (in my opinion, as some would prefer his trap-flavoured songs to this new style).

    Best tracks- Redbone, Me and Your Mama, Boogieman, Zombies, Baby Boy, Stand Tall
    Worst tracks(not necessarily bad)- California, The Night Me and Your Mama Met    … Expand
  24. jivefyve
    Dec 3, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Glover at his most daring, and his finest. Gambino takes his admirers and critics alike along a funkadelic, soulful journey into his mind versus the punchlines and rhythmic cadences that we come to expect from Donald. Some would even say that "Awaken My Love!" is the little brother of Kendrick Lamar's To Pimp A Butterfly, and of course in the best way possible. I would dare to say that this is Donald's Magnum Opus. This third album is a sign of maturity from the Forever Childish One, and with that said, 'the boy' has definitely has grown a man.… Expand
  25. Jobin_Klavin
    Dec 3, 2016
    9
    As a fan of Donald Glover's "Because the Internet", this album was a very ambitious follow up. "Awaken, My Love" is without a doubt an enjoyable release full of great concepts and music. If you were anticipating another rap album, you will be disappointed. However, this project has some great tracks: "Me and Your Mama", "Boogieman", "Redbone", and "Stand Tall". I highly recommend thisAs a fan of Donald Glover's "Because the Internet", this album was a very ambitious follow up. "Awaken, My Love" is without a doubt an enjoyable release full of great concepts and music. If you were anticipating another rap album, you will be disappointed. However, this project has some great tracks: "Me and Your Mama", "Boogieman", "Redbone", and "Stand Tall". I highly recommend this project to fans of funk and Glover's music.… Expand
  26. thedeviousmatt
    Dec 7, 2016
    9
    A spontaneously unique album from an artist who has just proven just how versatile he is. Sure, a couple tracks on here are definitely questionable, such as "California" and "Riot". In my opinion however, the overall quality of the album and the fantastic highs that it hits on songs like "Stand Tall" and "Redbone" more than earn it a place in your collection.
  27. GreisNShine
    Dec 15, 2016
    9
    Although I heavily respect Donald Glover as an artist, I never enjoyed his 'Childish Gambino' work prior to "Awaken My Love!". As many have noted, this album is nothing like its predecessors. The album is heavily referential to funk music from artists such as Parliament-Funkadelic, Sly & the Family Stone, Earth Wind & Fire, Charles Wright, the Brothers Johnson, etc. This influence goes allAlthough I heavily respect Donald Glover as an artist, I never enjoyed his 'Childish Gambino' work prior to "Awaken My Love!". As many have noted, this album is nothing like its predecessors. The album is heavily referential to funk music from artists such as Parliament-Funkadelic, Sly & the Family Stone, Earth Wind & Fire, Charles Wright, the Brothers Johnson, etc. This influence goes all the way down to the cover, which is an obvious reference to Funkadelic's 1972 album, Maggot Brain. The vocals are beautifully layered, and the complex instrumentals live up to many great funk instrumentals from yesteryear. The album was very refreshing to me in 2016's soundscape because Glover successfully attempted a genre that few artists have succeeded in since the early 1980s. My favorite tracks on this album were Me & Your Mama, Redbone, Terrified!, and Stand Tall. One of the most common areas of complaint about this album is the song "California". While I agree that "California" felt a bit out of place, I still loved the instrumental and can at least respect Gambino's attempt at an innovative sound, possibly based off of scat singing from 70's funk. Overall, I thought this album was an outstanding project. I applaud Glover for his ambitious return to the funk sound, great vocals, and incredible instrumentals. 9/10.… Expand
  28. BabyRants
    Mar 29, 2017
    9
    One of the only Donald's that I love. The songs are funky and "out into space" as I like to say. The cover of the album does creep me out a ton though, so...Uh...Yeah...9/10.
  29. C_dot
    Dec 3, 2018
    9
    Donald Glover steps away from being a rap star to take a risk and release a soulful project. The production is top tier, and Glover reinvents himself and maintains a unique sound.
  30. Shaymooose
    Aug 17, 2019
    9
    One of my favorite albums period. Fantastic from start to finish. Donald's singing is incredible here.

    Best Tracks: The Night Me and Your Mama Met, Redbone, Terrified, Me and Your Mama, Baby Boy, Zombies, Stand Tall, Have Some Love, Boogieman, California.
    Worst Tracks: Riot.
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Awards & Rankings

22
#22 Most Discussed Album of 2016
29
#29 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 25
  3. Negative: 0 out of 25
  1. Mixmag
    Jan 6, 2017
    90
    Charming, incredibly soulful and emotionally charged, this record introduces us to a whole new, golden side of Donald Glover--and should elevate him to a new level of stardom.
    Read full review
  2. HipHopDX
    Jan 3, 2017
    80
    The album transpires without so much as a lyrical couplet--exchanging raps for electromagnetic soul and fluorescent funk--and will ultimately be remembered for its experimentation over its execution.
    Read full review
  3. Mojo
    Dec 20, 2016
    60
    This radiantly executed effort is also, curiously, Childish Gambino's most anonymous. [Feb 2017, p.92]]
See all critic reviews »