Pink Sweat$ - ‘Pink Planet’

Back in June I wrote up Pink Sweat$’s single “Cadillac Drive” and noted he was a name to watch – our OG email subscribers can vouch. I was extra excited to come across him because he’s Philly born and raised, and I love to see rising artists come out of my home city.

I have a feeling his name will soon be right up there with Tierra Wack, Will Smith, Lil Dicky, Meek Mill, John Legend and the host of other local legends. 

Just 8 months later, his debut album was listed as one of the top new releases on Spotify’s New Music Friday. He blew up, deservingly so. 

Pink Sweat$ has been releasing singles and EPs since 2018, so this official debut was a long time coming. Pink Planet is an R&B and soul-driven project, sprinkled with pop elements, gospel organs and choir-like harmonies.

“Pink Planet is about love, it’s about inclusivity, and it’s about creative freedom,” Pink Sweat$ said in a statement. “Top to bottom, I’m giving a glimpse into my creative world; and I hope there’s a little something for everybody in it.” 

There is a constant theme here, made very clear with the first 3 tracks: “Pink Planet,” “Heaven” and “Paradise.” These titles are all completely honest and unironic.

Sparknotes: He’s willing to build his partner her very own city to escape to together, they’re relationship feels like heaven, and even though they’ve experienced their fair share of bumps in the road, they could have a paradise for the rest of their lives. 

He writes about the sensation of being completely and utterly in love, delivering songs that call for intimacy, devotion and forgiveness. Suuuuper romantic energy, just in time for a Valentine’s Day weekend release. 

While I do think many of the songs sound very similar, I don’t mean to oversimplify this album. The project is beautifully recorded, melodically diverse and deeply emotional. A full listen will make you feel wholesome, reassured and ~safe~.

Pink Sweats used to use music to escape the not-so beautiful world he grew up in, and now he has created that same sense of escape for all of his fans. 

There are a few standout tracks, most of which are from bottom half of the album where I found he explored more than just the concept of unconditional love. 

“Magic”

This one is real smooth and also pleasantly dynamic. It’s a soulful track featuring a choir and a host of instruments including the sax (my personal favorite), which I think cleverly gives the listener a taste of the magic-like sensation he’s experiencing with his partner. 

“PINK MONEY” 

Vibes are high on this track. Pink Sweat$ manages to stay humble while embracing the dollar sign in his name and all the wealth that's come with his success.

“Not Alright” 

Leave it to me to pick out the one depressing song. Pink Sweat$ is feeling hopeless here, “fightin’ the war that I’m gonna lose.” He feels lost and defeated by the world’s expectations, attempting to protect his treasured soul. He takes on higher pitch over a steady back beat and chilling guitar. 

“Icy” 

This is easily the most fun track on the album, offering a truly dancey beat over lyrics about being cool as shit through and through. This song honestly feels inspired by a little bit of Bruno Mars and a little bit of Amine, which is ideal in my opinion.

“At My Worst” feat. Kehlani 

He tapped Kehlani as the only feature on the project for a new version of his preleased track “At My Worst.” The duo sings about the need to be with someone who can love them even at their lowest point. It’s utterly sweet and will have you subconsciously swaying to the beat. 

Thank you, Pink Sweat$, for inviting us to your magical planet. XOXO