New York, NY – August 28, 2024– Big Sean's latest album, *Better Me Than You*, is on track to record the lowest first-week sales of his career. According to early projections from Hip Hop By the Numbers, the album is anticipated to sell under 24,000 copies in its debut week, a figure that would place him outside the top 20 on the Billboard 200 charts.
This outcome is a significant departure from Big Sean's previous successes. Over the years, the rapper has enjoyed a steady commercial presence, with his first four albums reaching the top of the hip-hop charts. Notably, his 2015 release, *Dark Sky Paradise*, peaked at number one on the Billboard 200. However, *Better Me Than You* is set to struggle, potentially failing to break into the top 20—a stark contrast to his past achievements.
Several factors are contributing to this decline. Big Sean has been absent from the music scene for four years, with his last album, *Detroit 2*, achieving only modest commercial success despite eventually being certified Gold. This new release faces a similar challenge, compounded by a lack of hit singles to drive sales. None of the album’s three lead singles have made an impact on Billboard charts, which may have hindered its commercial appeal.
The broader landscape for rap albums in 2024 is also challenging. This year has seen a downturn in sales across the genre, with notable artists like Mustard and YG struggling to match past numbers. Mustard's *Faith of a Mustard Seed* and YG's *Just Re'd Up 3* both underperformed significantly, reflecting a wider trend of declining rap album sales.
Despite the commercial struggles, *Better Me Than You* showcases Big Sean’s dedication to deep, introspective themes and uplifting sounds. However, the lack of a viral hit and the overall tough market conditions for rap may have impacted its performance.
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