Jesus Is King
by Kanye West
User Score
5.2

Mixed or average reviews- based on 1454 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 657 out of 1454
  2. Mixed: 241 out of 1454
  3. Negative: 556 out of 1454

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  1. Skeledon
    May 22, 2023
    7
    Not the best album from ye, but still it works, it's a bit unfinished imo. But as a first dip into gospel from ye a good attempt, what i would change in this album is, Jesus is Lord as the Intro and longer, Every Hour and Hands on should be cutted, and deleted from the album to get Wake the dead, and La Monster on it. Use this Gospel is one of the best ye Songs peroid. - Favorite Song: UseNot the best album from ye, but still it works, it's a bit unfinished imo. But as a first dip into gospel from ye a good attempt, what i would change in this album is, Jesus is Lord as the Intro and longer, Every Hour and Hands on should be cutted, and deleted from the album to get Wake the dead, and La Monster on it. Use this Gospel is one of the best ye Songs peroid. - Favorite Song: Use this Gospel… Expand
  2. frapsed1
    Apr 10, 2023
    7
    I went into this project with open ears, but heard that is arguably Ye's worst work, but I was amazed. It is so much different than any other Ye album. The choir is amazing, and the Christian themes are executed well. There aren't many tracks that I can listen to on their own, but I like how every single track is important to the album's narrative. Not bad, but I have heard better from Ye.I went into this project with open ears, but heard that is arguably Ye's worst work, but I was amazed. It is so much different than any other Ye album. The choir is amazing, and the Christian themes are executed well. There aren't many tracks that I can listen to on their own, but I like how every single track is important to the album's narrative. Not bad, but I have heard better from Ye.

    FAVORITES: Selah, Follow God, On God, Everything We Need    … Expand
  3. VanZizek
    Mar 6, 2023
    7
    I like the project, it's very interesting and has very special touches, it seemed to be a new Kanye and a very good breakthrough, I like in this album what Kanye becomes and songs like "Selah" even make you cry.
  4. CordRafael
    Feb 17, 2022
    8
    gosto muito!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!so p deixar no perfil so p deixar no perfil so p deixar no perfil
  5. ISETAEME
    Jan 10, 2022
    7
    El álbum esta muy bien producido, la letra es buena, dura lo justo y necesario...
    Sin embargo, sabiendo lo que iba a sacar Kanye con Yandhi para luego tener esto, es algo decepcionante. Parece un borrador del proyecto final.
    Aún así, muy disfrutable.
  6. Matteusz
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated overhated VERY overhated
  7. RuRu92
    Sep 3, 2021
    8
    The fact he’s stated he’s no longer making secular music from here on in means it’s on us as the listener to bare the brunt of the fact before going into the project. Inspiring stuff; admittedly not his best work by any means but when you’ve set the bar as high as this man has, it’s going to be hard to top itS Let’s just say this work, has a man reevaluating his faith.
  8. Thejonaz
    Aug 30, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This álbum change my life, Jesus is the king, Just praise the lord and nothing more… Expand
  9. Pandabear1996
    Aug 30, 2021
    10
    This album is beautiful if you actually listen to the meaning behind every song. Even closed on Sunday
  10. kolbert
    Aug 29, 2021
    7
    If you love Jesus, you will love this album, but if you don't love Jesus, you won't love this album as much as those who love Him. A very complicated and strange thesis, but true. Kanye introduces us to his love for God. She's making an album for HIM. If I had to name my favorite songs, they would be "God Is," "On God," "Water," "Follow God," "Everything We Need" and "Closed on Sunday."
  11. glmonkeylord9
    Aug 7, 2021
    7
    A good album, but not great like the rest of Kanye's discography.

    Overall, the production is really solid and the gospel aesthetic is very nicely implemented throughout the record. There are tracks like Use this Gospel and Everything We Need that use dense autotune vocal harmonies in their choruses that sound other-worldly and honestly just straight up beautiful. Other tracks like    A good album, but not great like the rest of Kanye's discography.

    Overall, the production is really solid and the gospel aesthetic is very nicely implemented throughout the record. There are tracks like Use this Gospel and Everything We Need that use dense autotune vocal harmonies in their choruses that sound other-worldly and honestly just straight up beautiful. Other tracks like Follow God and God Is use Kanye's signature vocal sampling to great effect, bringing us a Watch The Throne-type banger and an endearing, soulful ballad respectively on the same record. The tracklist is quite diverse, going from quaint Sunday Service jam sessions to grand cinematic gospel bangers all in a short 27 minute runtime. The cohesion of the album's tracklist is held together by a well-executed gospel aesthetic and great Kanye production, albeit with a few hiccups along the way.

    The one big major drawback is that the transition out of secular music seems to have hindered Kanye's writing ability on this record a bit. Tracks like Closed on Sunday and On God lack the wit and punch of Kanye's usual writing, instead almost sounding a bit like he's just trolling with the lyrics. It's no poopity scoop but it's getting there. There are also times where tracks lack the beefy mixing that is to be expected on a Kanye record, rather sounding quite unimpactful and lackluster especially in the low end of the mix. Also, a small gripe that is quite common among listeners is the brevity of Jesus Is Lord, where the track seems to end as it starts to ramp up towards what would have been an absolutely amazing track (Watch the JIK film for the full version). All in all, these flaws do hinder the album from becoming great, but it is still nonetheless a good, solid record.

    7/10    … Expand
  12. Lewdogmma
    Jun 24, 2021
    7
    Way to overhated. Everysong on here is nice. I don't like selah. On god is nice
  13. hbjuhvuv8
    Jun 19, 2021
    10
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  14. CreatingReview
    Apr 6, 2021
    10
    This album is amazing. Whoever is rating this low, clearly doesn’t know what good music is.
  15. tdbtom
    Mar 14, 2021
    7
    "JESUS IS KING" once again splits fans of Kanye roughly down the middle. As I look back on this album, I see myself more in favor of his creative direction with the project. It's no secret that, "everybody wanted Yandhi" but truthfully, I respect what Kanye repurposed it into. Instead of repeating himself with essentially a Yeezus 2, Kanye created the direct opposite to Yeezus. Yeezus"JESUS IS KING" once again splits fans of Kanye roughly down the middle. As I look back on this album, I see myself more in favor of his creative direction with the project. It's no secret that, "everybody wanted Yandhi" but truthfully, I respect what Kanye repurposed it into. Instead of repeating himself with essentially a Yeezus 2, Kanye created the direct opposite to Yeezus. Yeezus and JIK are opposites of one another which I find far more satisfying than if Yhandi were to come out and just repeat Kanye's cycle of sin. The journey from Yeezus to JIK closely resembles Dante's epic, The Divine Comedy. But enough about the message of JIK; how does it sound? Pretty mixed if we're being honest. "Every Hour" is a great start to the album, letting us know this is going to be the most gospel-related album Kanye's released yet. Selah, Follow God, and Use This Gospel are the clear highlights of this album. Top tier without a doubt. I very much enjoyed Everything We Need, God Is, and On God as well. They aren't standouts but I loved them sure enough. But Closed On Sunday, Water, Hands On, and Jesus Is Lord are all...alright. I admittedly have a bias in favor of all of Kanye's work so I tend to still like the songs that typically, I would think as "okay." Objectively though, these tracks could have been much more. Closed On Sunday has a creepy beginning and some interesting lines about a fast food chain which I thought to be an interesting take. Water was 'right but c'mon Kanye, you could've put a bit more mph into that verse my guy. Hands On is similarly spooky like Closed On Sunday and has a nice outro. My final note is that the last track should've just been an instrumental. I give JIK a 7/10 as my objective score. I honestly enjoy every track even with the imperfections because I'm invested in the message Ye is trying to convey with this album. But when looking at this LP more objectively and critically, I see that how Kanye could have swapped some of the tracks on this thing or just add more to it.

    P.s. I have not watched the film.    … Expand
  16. Josezzc
    Dec 15, 2020
    10
    is a beautiful album , this album changes my life , i love it , thank you Kanye
  17. Georgieisnotok
    Nov 1, 2019
    7
    A really great album both instrumentally and in all other aspects that is let down by its lyricism, as the the lyrics appear insincere, down right awful and confusing like on the track 'Closed on Sunday' and sometimes just lacking of Kanye's usual charm displayed through his lyricism. I hope it can be edited and improved like that of Life of pablo.
  18. thepes
    Nov 29, 2020
    8
    8/10

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  19. sebastianmina
    Oct 1, 2020
    7
    Not the worst Kanye album, some weak songs on here like Water and Hands On but also some amazing tracks like: Use This Gospel, God Is, Selah and Follow God. Pierre on this is also very intresting.
  20. Tomehshh
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    this is a masterpiece godly production looking forward new kanye's music :D
  21. Rosh444
    Aug 20, 2020
    8
    Aged like fine wine in my opinion, grew on me with each listen. Violent crimes is an amazing track, probably in my top 10 ye songs of all time.
  22. formiga116
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Excellent Album, the most spiritual that Kanye has ever released, I saw God in the lyrics and I believe that the angels in the sky sing like this… Expand
  23. 000Asyl
    May 1, 2020
    10
    Criativo e inovador como sempre, superando as barreiras do que é tratado como hip hop e criando um álbum gospel excepcional, cheio de faixas extremamente incríveis e que não prezam por apelo religioso pra ganhar visibilidade, mas sim apenas fala de Deus da sua maneira.
  24. ALousyUsername
    Mar 31, 2020
    7
    This album sounds amazing, the gospel choirs and the flows on this project are really refreshing. The instrumentals are really unique and very Kanye. Definitely will be listening to this one for a while.
  25. pianaro
    Feb 21, 2020
    10
    cheio de espírito e inspiração, kanye colocou sua alma nesse álbum, com tanto trabalho chegou a obra de arte espiritual perfeita
  26. MW77
    Feb 4, 2020
    10
    Production and structure are the strengths. A deeper understanding of Kanye is recommended to appreciate it as a whole.
  27. calebcorleone
    Feb 1, 2020
    7
    This album is "good" but it just didn't stick with me. Production and vocals are great and do some interesting things. Maybe if I were more religious, this would be amazing.
  28. MasterFair
    Jan 23, 2020
    7
    Jesus is King is enjoyable, good production as always and while I find it hard to resonate with the subject matter, the conviction adds a tone of quality and it’s a new step in an interesting direction.
  29. Venqo
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Okkkkkkkkxnnfmgmfmfmfmræfædlrlrnr brkrkenememeestkpstipsyztjpdypd updupxocyoupxjodyxydyoxjo
  30. brenb
    Jan 22, 2020
    7
    Has its high and low points. For me the highs are God Is, On God, Use This Gospel, and Follow God. Low would be Closed On Sunday and Everything We Need. The rest of the songs are good not great. Could’ve been better, but certainly not a bad album at all.
  31. coopsjt998
    Jan 18, 2020
    7
    As Kanye seems to reinvent himself once again, seemingly becoming a "born-again" christian, he finds himself at a new point in his life, producing and rapping on this christian/gospel and rap inspired record. A nearly one-of-a-kind album, it features soothing, solid production and witty, christian inspired Kanye-isms. A very sincere effort, yet overall less of a christian rap album for theAs Kanye seems to reinvent himself once again, seemingly becoming a "born-again" christian, he finds himself at a new point in his life, producing and rapping on this christian/gospel and rap inspired record. A nearly one-of-a-kind album, it features soothing, solid production and witty, christian inspired Kanye-isms. A very sincere effort, yet overall less of a christian rap album for the people and more of an updated look into Kanye's life as a christian for himself.… Expand
  32. TheGreatFan
    Jan 12, 2020
    7
    This is not a good album for Kanye West but decent as best as a regular artist. There are some tracks that are repetitive and stuff and some tracks that i don't like. My favorite tracks are Use This Gospel and Selah. But it is a listenable short album and i like it
  33. Mantis_Tobaggan
    Jan 10, 2020
    9
    I was disappointed with this album at first, but over time it began to grow on me. On first listen, only the track "Follow God" stood out, but of course that is because Kanye was clearly going for something different on this album. After being out for a few months, I love this album. It very much reminds me of 808s in a lot of ways, and I think in 5 to 10 years people will look back andI was disappointed with this album at first, but over time it began to grow on me. On first listen, only the track "Follow God" stood out, but of course that is because Kanye was clearly going for something different on this album. After being out for a few months, I love this album. It very much reminds me of 808s in a lot of ways, and I think in 5 to 10 years people will look back and give this album the praise it deserves. My thoughts:

    - Selah, Follow God, Closed on Sunday, Hands on & Use This Gospel are all great tracks
    - the into and interlude tracks are enjoyable
    -"On God" is my favorite song that came out this year, excluding music that was leaked.
    -"Everything We Need" is good, but not as good as the XXXTENTACION version that was on the Yandhi bootleg
    -"Water" is a good song but I do find Kanyes verse on this track to be lazy
    - Ant Clemons contributions to the album were great
    - The album is rather short, and I do think certain other songs from Yandhi could have been included

    8.75-9/10
    I would say it is the 6th best out of Kanye's solo albums.    … Expand
  34. Kikikinooo
    Jan 10, 2020
    10
    Kanye has always been a trendsetter and will always be. The mix of his voice and gospel really works. Bravo Kanye!
  35. RickyD22
    Nov 29, 2019
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I’ve been waiting for this album for a while now and I was a little bit scared of how this album would sound like cause I didn’t like Ye and I wasn’t impressed with the Yandhi leaks. But when the thing dropped I was happy that it turned out to be a pretty good album. As in terms of production this album could’ve been a little bit better, but tracks such as "Follow God", "Everything We Need" & "On God" have really cool production. As in terms of the lyrical content this album is gospelish as I thought that it would’ve been. But "Follow God", "Hands On" & "Use This Gospel" have some lyrical content. Fav tracks: "Follow God", "Hands On (ft. Free Hammond)" & "Use This Gospel (ft. Clipse & Kenny G)".… Expand
  36. Cas3102
    Nov 25, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Lyrically the album is phenomenal, my only negative thought on the album is that I wish the album was longer. I've never heard an entire album where all tracks were great, in jesus is king all tracks are great. I never expected this from a gospel album but regardless of the genre this is the best I've ever heard… Expand
  37. Beeatriu
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    His album, his rules. It is musically well composed and it clearly exposes how HE feels about God. He’s showing his vulnerability to the world and you’re all making fun of him? That’s just shameful, regardless of what you believe. Hence, do not rate this album negatively purely based on how you feel about Christianity as a whole because that is just discriminating the freedom ofHis album, his rules. It is musically well composed and it clearly exposes how HE feels about God. He’s showing his vulnerability to the world and you’re all making fun of him? That’s just shameful, regardless of what you believe. Hence, do not rate this album negatively purely based on how you feel about Christianity as a whole because that is just discriminating the freedom of expression; isn’t that what music should be about? Try to understand where he comes from and why Jesus is so meaningful to him as throughout the album he’s expressing love, compassion, admiration, hope, forgivenesses, to say the less. I’d 100% rather listen to rap music talking about something positive than listening to lyrics encouraging taking drugs, killing people and sexualising women.… Expand
  38. MBMBaM
    Nov 13, 2019
    10
    I’ve listened to every song many many times. This is a masterpiece. It’s beautiful, and it made my atheist heart swell up with love and even more appreciation to humanity than ever before. I love our world
  39. BobGeorge
    Nov 11, 2019
    10
    Não é um dos seus melhores álbuns, mas está longe de ser o pior. ye, lançado no ano passado, é o verdadeiro e único ponto baixo da sua discografia. Jesus Is King representa o renascimento de um dos maiores artistas do século 21 depois de retomar contato com Deus e merece atenção e elogios por sua criatividade e estética sonora. Embora as letras não estejam no mesmo nível, abordam temasNão é um dos seus melhores álbuns, mas está longe de ser o pior. ye, lançado no ano passado, é o verdadeiro e único ponto baixo da sua discografia. Jesus Is King representa o renascimento de um dos maiores artistas do século 21 depois de retomar contato com Deus e merece atenção e elogios por sua criatividade e estética sonora. Embora as letras não estejam no mesmo nível, abordam temas necessários que a sociedade costuma ignorar. Mal posso esperar pelo capítulo seguinte.… Expand
  40. Idrem
    Nov 11, 2019
    10
    Despite the fact that it’s only a 27-minute-album, For a album «as a christian», songs are pretty good and lyrics a lil bit deep
  41. jesusIsLord
    Nov 8, 2019
    10
    This is by far the most uplifting album of 2019 I've heard, filling the cultural gap that exists in today's society and music industry where every record almost sounds the same as the other one in advancement of evil. Well done Kanye, you getting a Grammy plus a BET for this one.
  42. Kevinthewoods
    Nov 7, 2019
    10
    There’s nothing more powerful than the gospel. It’s so beautiful that Kanye is using his massive reach to put out a much needed message in our increasingly decaying culture.
  43. raynersouza
    Nov 7, 2019
    10
    This is a very honest and deep album were Kanye is expressing his feelings and getting over mistakes from the past and giving glory to God. I love it !
  44. acp5533
    Nov 6, 2019
    10
    Easily 10/10. Unique, multi-faceted and beautiful lyrics.

    If you’re a fan of JIK, you’re a fan of yourself.
  45. Sire_Rock
    Nov 6, 2019
    10
    Obviously a Christian themed Album/Movie may not sit well with DEMOCRATS/JEWS/NON-CHRISTIANS/LGBTQ etc...However these groups comprise the VAST majority of Music & Film Critics. And I think they are being VERY dishonest in their biased reviews of these Exceptional works of Art by Kanye. Jesus is King is an AMAZING Album, 10 Stars
  46. Orlamds
    Nov 5, 2019
    10
    Just a masterpiece of god! Everything you know about gospel will be rewind!
  47. JSly
    Nov 5, 2019
    10
    Classic Kanye with infinitely more depth. Most of these comments are shallow and inaccurate from those who didn't approach this work with an open mind to begin with... or clearly had a political axe to grind. You have to listen through it a couple of times to get the message and understand the flow. As you do, it gets better and better until you realize it is a complete masterpiece. MyClassic Kanye with infinitely more depth. Most of these comments are shallow and inaccurate from those who didn't approach this work with an open mind to begin with... or clearly had a political axe to grind. You have to listen through it a couple of times to get the message and understand the flow. As you do, it gets better and better until you realize it is a complete masterpiece. My only complaint is the last track wasn't long enough. You tee'd it up and left it Ye! finish it on next. The thing is most christian music is lazy and uninspired when it should be anything but. This is easily the best gospel album I have heard where essentially every verse was honest and has weight. You can feel toll of fame, pain, addition, lament and contrast his sorrow with redemption and concern for his family. Its even more powerful if you listen to his earlier work, in succession, up to this point. Proud of Kanye for doing this. Blessed by his early living out of a true saving faith. Encouraged by the importance he placed on theological accuracy (the best he knew at this point) and, praying for his continued sanctification and for his wife, kids and family to follow close behind through seeing the change in his life that only Christ can bring… Expand
  48. xxxxyolo
    Nov 4, 2019
    10
    The album aims to renew Kanye West's career with a new musicality and lyricism, believing that even the “infidels” will be jaw-dropping with the music production of the work. Is this another work of art by the artist? Jesus is King is a significant milestone in West's career and anticipates what we can expect in the future.
  49. Jift100
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    Jesus is King is a beautiful Rap album that includes unity, family, and transcendence through the Christian religion. The production and messaging was truly beautiful. The album makes one want to unite their respective families and put plans together to become truly greater. The opening track is a gospel track that truly has enlightening energy through the hynamic singing praising JesusJesus is King is a beautiful Rap album that includes unity, family, and transcendence through the Christian religion. The production and messaging was truly beautiful. The album makes one want to unite their respective families and put plans together to become truly greater. The opening track is a gospel track that truly has enlightening energy through the hynamic singing praising Jesus Christ to come down with his blessings. Selah was another track with strong energy saying words like God's soldiers really inspiring the listener to be apart of something bigger. Follow God is everyone's favorite track it seems like as he argues with his father about being "Christ like," in a very enticing and truly interesting way over an amazing beat. Closed On Sunday is the song where in the second verse tells anyone against him to remove their hands from his family in a very powerful and compelling way over switch in the beat hypnotic beat in the first half of the song. That's only the first third all in all, this is definitely one of Kanye's better albums.… Expand
  50. puhli
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    This is another masterpiece of Kanye West. He never produced the "same" album twice. He always reinventions himself and doesn't care what other people think about it, he does what he wants to. never made mainstream music. He truly is the greatest artist of all time.
  51. GeorgiosMungas
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    This album is amazing when taking in it's context and purpose as a gospel album. Kanye brilliantly combines rap with Gospel and provides some very well composed tracks to create for a seamless and enjoyable listen. One to be revered!
  52. Aznbacon
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    10/10

    It’s a spiritual war, even on Metacritic. Kanye keep doing God’s work, you’re doing so much good with your music. We needed this album
  53. izzyguy98
    Oct 31, 2019
    10
    Every Kanye album is a 10/10 in my opinion. His albums are truly works of art because have you ever heard someone say the new Kanye album was just alright? No, you haven’t. You only hear people say it’s bad, or amazing. Never a middle ground answer, always the two extremes. This is the sign of true art. Kanye isn’t really doing anything drastically different than what he’s always done.Every Kanye album is a 10/10 in my opinion. His albums are truly works of art because have you ever heard someone say the new Kanye album was just alright? No, you haven’t. You only hear people say it’s bad, or amazing. Never a middle ground answer, always the two extremes. This is the sign of true art. Kanye isn’t really doing anything drastically different than what he’s always done. Soul samples? ✓ Religious lyrics? ✓ ✓ ✓ Kinda corny lines like “you’re my chick-fil-a”? ✓ Kanye has always had some corny lines in his songs like in 808s & Heartbreak when he refers to his love as a RoboCop. Or when he says in Yeezus “Eating Asian **** all I need is sweet and sour sauce.”

    Another thing with Kanye music is it has a tendency to have mixed reviews upon release both critically and commercially. But also has a tendency to be considered a classic album a few years later. This has happened with 808s & Heartbreak, Yeezus, The Life of Pablo, and it’s starting to happen with his 2018 album Ye. Overall, I think this is a good album that will be considered a classic in a few years. Religious lyrics often age very well. It’s cool to see Kanye still doing what he does at age 42.    … Expand
  54. JayShurman
    Oct 31, 2019
    8
    I was prepared for disaster, a typical atheist disinterested in the "gospel," and waiting for a total flop. My first listen was skeptical but this wasn't my first Kanye album, so I know I've been here before. But like every Kanye album before it, it grows on you with each listen.

    Kanye has always made better albums than one-off songs and this album is no different. At just 12 tracks    I was prepared for disaster, a typical atheist disinterested in the "gospel," and waiting for a total flop. My first listen was skeptical but this wasn't my first Kanye album, so I know I've been here before. But like every Kanye album before it, it grows on you with each listen.

    Kanye has always made better albums than one-off songs and this album is no different. At just 12 tracks and 27 minutes, its a perfect length to just consume in its entirety. The track arrangement is perfectly no coincidence as the album just flows.

    Kanye is no genius but he is certainly brilliant. A savant, perhaps.    … Expand
  55. RyanC11
    Oct 31, 2019
    9
    I know it’s not vintage-Kanye good but it’s still a very interesting and sonically pleasing album.
  56. plaq
    Oct 31, 2019
    10
    It's absolutely glorious. I have this album on repeat and I still can't get enough. It's pure joy in audio form.
  57. Handsome-Sleuth
    Oct 30, 2019
    10
    This album is a work of art and grows on me every listen. Production is amazing and the songs offer a new take on Hip Hop records and an infusion with gospel music. When taking it in without prejudice and with the recommend purpose it clearly reaches its goals and provides a musical and spiritual experience to behold.
  58. sXerra
    Oct 30, 2019
    9
    Even though I normally don't listen to Gospel music, this was a nice, light and uplifting record. Will probably give it a few more listens
  59. manahe
    Oct 30, 2019
    9
    Maybe the lyrics are not amazing, but the vibe, the music is so creative. I think it is around the level of KSG and TLOP despite not being as lyrical or abstract
  60. Dvir971
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    Kanye reinvents himself in each one of his project and this one finds him in it’s most mature. While I do want him to return making albums like Yeezus and Pablo, this album is revolutionary on it’s own depicting very profound and important subjects people don’t talk enough about. As a Jewish man I don’t connect to the whole ‘Jesus’ thing at all yet I still connect with many of Kanye’sKanye reinvents himself in each one of his project and this one finds him in it’s most mature. While I do want him to return making albums like Yeezus and Pablo, this album is revolutionary on it’s own depicting very profound and important subjects people don’t talk enough about. As a Jewish man I don’t connect to the whole ‘Jesus’ thing at all yet I still connect with many of Kanye’s spiritual and social themes and subjects throughout the album while adjusting them to my own world view. I think it also helps watching Kanye’s recent interviews to see where he’s coming from. I can see however how this album pisses off so many people, Kanye has been doing interviews about same people for around 2 years now. Hopefully in a few years people will see the brilliance in this album, like the brilliant ‘808’s & Heartbreak’. As always with Kanye, the album is sonically masterful and while I wouldn’t consider it as one of his greatest, it’s definitely not a misstep.… Expand
  61. Galet
    Oct 29, 2019
    9
    People either absolutely love it or absolutely hate it. Everyone is talking about it, it's quite controversial.
    On one side it's quite bad, surface level and corny to the point of making you laugh, on the other side
    it's powerful, it's soulful, (the first listen of Selah made me cry), it's courageous, it's taboo, it's inspiring. So it's very representative of its creator Kanye West. A    People either absolutely love it or absolutely hate it. Everyone is talking about it, it's quite controversial.
    On one side it's quite bad, surface level and corny to the point of making you laugh, on the other side
    it's powerful, it's soulful, (the first listen of Selah made me cry), it's courageous, it's taboo, it's inspiring.

    So it's very representative of its creator Kanye West. A sincere piece of music, a great piece of art.
    I'm glad this album exists, and i can't wait to see its ripples.    … Expand
  62. Guigui26
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    This concludes an album that I find fascinating from start to finish. Perhaps we have to thank Kanye's wavering mental health for this unexpected musical exodus, as he does himself. There is something disturbing about realizing that the overwhelming majority of the best known artists suffer from mental disorders. In the manner of a Joker posing in the cinema, the question of our moralThis concludes an album that I find fascinating from start to finish. Perhaps we have to thank Kanye's wavering mental health for this unexpected musical exodus, as he does himself. There is something disturbing about realizing that the overwhelming majority of the best known artists suffer from mental disorders. In the manner of a Joker posing in the cinema, the question of our moral sense from a punitive and emotional point of view, Jesus Is King puts it from the angle of perverse musical entertainment ... Because if we always hope that our favorite artists feel better in their heads, it's impossible to deny that you have to be special to have a crazy career like Kanye West. Thank you!… Expand
  63. fomalhaut
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    Kanye repents to jesus through this album. And it makes me cry. Some people hate this album, but I love it tho
  64. DarcenBrandt
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    My whole family listens to this album and loves it! I'm a huge huge music fan so i listen to a lot of music but this is the first album maybe ever that me, my wife and two kids all love. That makes me happy! You're a free man Kanye!
  65. NicholasPayet
    Oct 29, 2019
    7
    The album is great production wise, but ye sounds like gods cheerleader for much of it and doesnt offer much insight into much of anything at any point on this album. Selah and use this gospel go hard.
  66. JordanMich321
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    Another great album by Mr West. The gospel element is something new to hip-hop and once again Kanye has changed the game. This is an album similar to 808s that will give birth to new artists.
  67. Rickyjerry321
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Great overall album with elements of gospel. Kanye once again changes up his style and tries something different. One of the best albums of the year.
  68. VISERIONXI
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Great album with a great message! Selah and Follow God are the best from this album!
  69. Jregistv
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    What an amazing album. From beginning to end it was a spiritual journey. I felt the emotional and tiredness that went into creating each and every song from the 11 track album.
  70. RoganRoy
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    I agree a lot with the criticism about the intro and outro being odd pacing and timing, the overall structure of it being a awkwardly short project, but Kanye has always had corny lyrics and those on “Closed on Sunday” aren’t THAT bad.
  71. lnanyz
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    album simplesmente perfeito, com significado para os fãs e afro americanos, a melodia é incrivel
  72. Eliasisi
    Oct 28, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A very good album with a awesome production and instrumentals. Lyrics are good too, but it's a fact that is gospel hip hop album, so it's very experimental, I just loved. kanye it's on a other phase of him life, so try to listen the full album with no preconcept… Expand
  73. aver233
    Oct 28, 2019
    9
    This album is great, it grows on you rapidly for each listen. Kanye remains at the forefront of innovative music whilst also going back to his roots slightly with the chopped up soul/gospel samples. The album is short but sweet. Lyrics are heartfelt and personal as always from Kanye, with some humor mixed in there.

    Production is the absolute best part, from the epic tribal drums on    This album is great, it grows on you rapidly for each listen. Kanye remains at the forefront of innovative music whilst also going back to his roots slightly with the chopped up soul/gospel samples. The album is short but sweet. Lyrics are heartfelt and personal as always from Kanye, with some humor mixed in there.

    Production is the absolute best part, from the epic tribal drums on "Selah", to the wavy atmosphere on "Water", to the futuristic synth on "On God", to the absolutely gorgeous gospel sample on "God Is", all the way to the great saxophone solo by Kenny G on "Use this Gospel. That same track also features the rap duo Clipse making a historic comeback. Both Pusha T and his brother Malice have great verses on this track.

    Overall, there's a lot to like here. I haven't been able to stop listening since it came out, and the album keeps growing on me even more. Kanye did an amazing job.

    Favorite tracks: Selah, Follow God, Closed on Sunday, On God, Everything We Need, God Is, Use this gospel.

    Least Favorite tracks: Hands On (Lost potential on that track.)    … Expand
  74. PaulFenty
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    can’t believe Yeezy took me to Church
  75. bodilyfluids
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    7/10
    While the lyricism of Jesus Is King might be Kanye's worst to date, the production & concepts are definite hits. Refreshing album after Kanye's tumultuous 2018.

    Best Tracks: On God & God Is
    Worst Tracks: Water & Everything We Need
  76. StuckRodgers
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    It's 2019 and being a hater is the trendy thing to do. Instead of hating I chose to listen to the album and it's a certified 10/10. Jesus is King!
  77. luisschlindwein
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    very good, I felt blessed and enlightened by all the sounds ye's been able to put out on this album;
    my christianity indicators rose from 25 all the way up to 100+
  78. tha_da_vinci
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Great album. Pushing boundaries as always.

    Selah and God Is are some of his best songs ever.

    10/10
  79. Kyle_Peake
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    This album is an incredible departure from Ye's previous work, it is like 808s in the sense that the recognition will be more widespread once people have had time to understand it.
  80. Diesker
    Oct 28, 2019
    9
    Muy buen album de Kanye, la verdad que no decepciono, no tenia idea de lo que podia llegar a esperar de un album Gospel, pero la verdad que me sorprendio bastente. Entre los mejores temas destaco Follow God, Close On Sunday, On God y Use This Gospel.
  81. psmora
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    An amazing album. Kanye does it again. 2 improvements for me would be to fix use this gospel as the leaked versions were much better, and make Jesus is Lord much much longer as the sound is heavenly!
  82. donxy12
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    This album shows Kanye’s versatility and adds well to his unique discography
  83. Andrewl0701
    Oct 28, 2019
    8
    I believe that "Jesus is King" is a genuinely great album. Despite having a limited run-time of only 27 minutes, Kanye makes the most of it by embellishing it with beautiful choir vocals and outstanding production. This is the most focused we have seen Ye since the days of 808s and Heartbreak, as I believe that this is the first time since then that he has found a sound and truly sticks toI believe that "Jesus is King" is a genuinely great album. Despite having a limited run-time of only 27 minutes, Kanye makes the most of it by embellishing it with beautiful choir vocals and outstanding production. This is the most focused we have seen Ye since the days of 808s and Heartbreak, as I believe that this is the first time since then that he has found a sound and truly sticks to it. This is without a step above what we heard on "Ye" and I truly can not recommend this album enough. It may not be for everyone, but I do think that many will be very surprised on how much they enjoy this project.… Expand
  84. gabrieleslima19
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    perfect, I really loved it, kanye changed the game, he's one of the best things to ever exist in gospel
  85. azdante
    Oct 28, 2019
    8
    A few weak patches, like Closed on Sunday, and some rough vocals but otherwise a strong album from a veteran of the art. Largest complaint is how small it is.
  86. Cale7777
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Well produced with a great message! Follow God, Use this Gospel, and God is are excellent songs to start with.
  87. Joe2126
    Oct 28, 2019
    8
    JIK is a love it or hate it album, it depends on what the listener is feeling whether they want something that is soulful or maybe more pumped up (such as Freddie Gibb's Bandana). In my opinion, I think this is just as good as Kanye's last two albums from last year but this time it greatly improves upon those two past ones. JIK really has some great music which I'm still listening to allJIK is a love it or hate it album, it depends on what the listener is feeling whether they want something that is soulful or maybe more pumped up (such as Freddie Gibb's Bandana). In my opinion, I think this is just as good as Kanye's last two albums from last year but this time it greatly improves upon those two past ones. JIK really has some great music which I'm still listening to all the time after it's release.

    Everything we need, water, follow god, god is and hands on are some of Kanye's best songs in a decade ever since MBDTF. The main problem with JIK is use this gospel which has good lyrics but the production value on it is terrible, it sounds disorienting and isn't good on the ears. It actually seems as if Kanye decided that the sound of an open car door would be a good idea for making a song but it really isn't, no one wants to hear that. At the end of the day, every good album has that one song you end up skiping all the time

    Overall, this album is beautiful. I love it and I'll continue playing the best songs off this album for the next weeks to come. I would say that Hands on is by far the best song on this album. Good job Kanye    … Expand
  88. RomanEmpires
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Loved it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  89. rickjamesiii
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Great Album! Obviously Kanye brings all the haters out making these reviews all but pointless
  90. cicerocesarf
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    o album é foda graças ao senhor Jesus! amem! Kanye West Gospel= perfeição
    ateus q chorem.
  91. oatyboaty
    Oct 28, 2019
    9
    At first, people hated Yeezus and 808’s. Now they are considered classics. Jesus Is King will be exactly like that and only get better with age. In 5 years from now this album will be praised and be viewed very positively. This is a great album, like all others in Kanye’s discography. Definitely not a top 3 Kanye album but still an amazing record.
  92. ChseSmth
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    MBDTF level. Such depth and the biblical references are so inspiring. The grandioseness is breathtaking
  93. Phillycheese050
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    Only Ye can make music like this. Even when it seems like he hasn't put his all into the project, it sounds infectious, inspiring, and more artistic than most music today. While the project could've been more fleshed out, longer, etc., the fact is that despite all the pressure...a diamond was still made. And that deserves apprevtoation.
  94. kingkillmonger
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    only problem is it aint long enough i want more!! ye re invents him self every album and always makes it sound great and fresh i dont want the old ye i want whoever ye wants to be and if this is it then im not complaining
  95. mateuscarneiro
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    Use this gospel for protection
    It's a hard road to heaven
    We call on your blessings
  96. luwey
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    CD Incrível, mostra uma nova fase do Kanye bem diferente do que estamos acostumados e com um ego bem menor.
  97. Windolicker
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    Well we already know that there are going to be plenty of haters that will rate this as a 1/10 without a shred of integrity. They hate Kanye's Christian and conservative values and they hate how he is a fan of Donald Trump. That is all it takes these days to inspire hatred from mass swathes of the population. However, as an objective listener, I found the album to be fun, quirky, andWell we already know that there are going to be plenty of haters that will rate this as a 1/10 without a shred of integrity. They hate Kanye's Christian and conservative values and they hate how he is a fan of Donald Trump. That is all it takes these days to inspire hatred from mass swathes of the population. However, as an objective listener, I found the album to be fun, quirky, and inspirational. This album legitimately makes me want to become a Christian.
    EDIT: I just went and read the negative reviews. They are such gross exaggerations and you can really tell that most of them are not reviews of the album but of Kanye himself. Vast statements such as "Worst album ever", as if that isn't a totally transparent reviewer. Some reviewers said awful things about Jesus and Christianity....come on! Have some class!    … Expand
  98. 21JackWal
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    Delivers a cohesive, sonically pleasing and lyrically strong gospel album without having it be all “praise Jesus” like some often do. Very strong production and lyricism
  99. Dfour45
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kanye doesn’t disappoint with this one and has made another great album! Wished it was longer!… Expand
  100. LuisThe24
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    Album of the Year. This album is better than what any other artist can put out. People still hate on him as a person and claim that his quality of music is declining, but he’s actually experimenting with new themes and sounds, so all of his albums are unique. He is the greatest artist of all time. “God Is” is a classic track already. That’s Kanye West for you.
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Most Discussed Album of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
53

Mixed or average reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 25
  3. Negative: 4 out of 25
  1. Tiny Mix Tapes
    Dec 30, 2019
    0
    His reunion with frequent collaborators belies a rich history of discovering and championing new voices. This ostensible distance from which Kanye preaches reveals King’s true tension: Kanye, like Kendrick on DAMN., is asking for our prayers, while also distancing himself from our hands and our mouths. And it doesn’t work. ... He has artistically lost track of his audience and himself in its midst.
    Read full review
  2. The Wire
    Nov 20, 2019
    50
    He’s hung up on Jesus rather than pneumatic women. It’s hard to tell if that’s an improvement, but it doesn’t seem like a regression either. ... An album with zero fat, dense in at least three senses, two of them positive. [Dec 2019, p.60]
  3. RapReviews.com
    Nov 12, 2019
    50
    As with every Kanye album, there’s some magnificent production on a majority of “Jesus Is King” courtesy of Pi’erre Bourne, Timbaland and Boogz, among others. ... Kanye just seems like he’s in his own world; disregarding what’s going on around him. Other times, Ye’s writing delves into eyerolling contradictions and ego-driven intentions.
    Read full review
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