B4Now (pronounced Before Now) is the debut studio album by South African rapper Blxckie, released on 21 May 2021 through M4 Entertainment. It debuted at number one in South Africa. The album was certified Gold in South Africa. The album features guest appearances from South African rapper, Nasty C, FLVME and Lucasraps. Production is handled by Christer, Loud Haileer, Herc, Geek Fam, 808 Sallie and others.
The Deluxe version was released a few months later in August of 2021 and was loaded with features, including Nigerian Afrobeat artists Oxlade, Alone, Rowlene, Christer and more.
Background
In early May 2021, he announced released date his debut album B4Now.[1]
“B4now is a mixture of stuff I was doing before I got into the ‘Big Time Sh’lappa’ era, and then some new songs also,” Blxckie said. “I’m also telling people a story about how things happened—me being in Durban for a while, and then coming to Jozi to work out a plan to do everything. It’s basically an introduction.”[2]
Commercial performance
The album debuted number one in South Africa.[3]B4Now deluxe edition was certified gold with sales of over 10,000 units.[4][5]
Release and promotion
B4Now was released on 21 May 2021.[6] To further promote his album he embarked on B4Now Tour which included 10 dates.[7][8]
Critical reception
Upon its release, it received positive reviews from music critics, Ubetoo wrote; "It's a highly relatable compilation that should have an eager audience out there".[9]
At the 2021 South African Hip Hop Awards, B4Now was nominated for Album of the Year and won Freshman of the Year.[10] In addition, B4Now won Best Hip Hop Album at the 28th South African Music Awards.[11]
