In a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Budden stirred up discussions in the music community with his frank critique of Cardi B’s new single, “Imaginary Playerz.” The track, which samples Jay-Z’s iconic 1997 song, has received mixed reactions, but Budden was particularly vocal about his disapproval, stating that the production does not align with Cardi B’s artistic style.

Budden expressed his concerns, noting that while he acknowledges the talent of the songwriters involved, he believes the choice to sample such a revered East Coast classic was misguided. “Don’t do that again,” Budden advised Cardi B, emphasizing that reworking beats from top-tier rappers can be a risky venture. He elaborated that the execution of the song fell short in terms of delivery and flow, which he felt detracted from the overall quality of the track.

“Imaginary Playerz” is the second single from Cardi B’s much-anticipated album, “Am I the Drama,” set for release in September. This project follows her highly praised debut album, “Invasion of Privacy,” which debuted in 2018 and solidified her place in the music industry. As fans eagerly await the new album, Budden’s comments have ignited a conversation about artistic choices in hip-hop, particularly regarding samples and influences from hip-hop icons.

The music industry often sees artists drawing inspiration from previous generations, but Budden’s critique raises questions about originality and the risks of sampling revered tracks. Cardi B’s choice to incorporate a Jay-Z sample may be seen as a nod to hip-hop’s rich history, but Budden’s perspective suggests a need for caution when navigating such significant musical legacies.

As the release date for “Am I the Drama” approaches, the debate surrounding “Imaginary Playerz” and its reception continues to unfold. Listeners and critics alike are encouraged to share their thoughts on Cardi B’s artistic direction as she prepares to launch her next chapter in music.