On March 14, 2025, Twitch streamer Kai Cenat captivated an audience of over 200,000 viewers during a live reaction to Playboi Carti’s highly anticipated album, I Am Music. This release marks a significant return for the Atlanta hip-hop artist, following the success of his 2020 project, Whole Lotta Red. Starting at 8 AM EST, Cenat dissected each track, offering his distinctive insights into the album’s overall vibe and artistic direction.
I Am Music comprises an impressive 30 tracks and features collaborations with some of the most prominent names in hip-hop. The album includes contributions from the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, and The Weeknd, alongside Atlanta’s own Young Thug, Future, and renowned producer Metro Boomin. Additionally, Lil Uzi Vert’s participation adds a nostalgic element for fans who have followed the hip-hop scene for years.
Cenat’s evaluation of the album took shape over two listening sessions. Initially, he assigned it a solid score of 8.8 out of 10. However, after further immersion into the tracks, his appreciation deepened, leading him to ultimately rate the album a nine:
“If I had to rate [Music], first listen, I will go with an 8.8, very precise on that, but after re-lapping, it’s truly a 9 bro. I really do think at first it was an 8.3… I ain’t gon’ lie, it’s definitely an 8 or 9.”
(Timestamp – 2:01:21)
Recognized for his incisive takes on the music industry, Cenat was recently featured at the top of Complex’s list of “The 10 Most Powerful Streamers in Hip-Hop,”sharing the spotlight with notable figures like producer Plaqueboymax. This recognition underscores Cenat’s influence, especially as he engages with new music releases.
Kai Cenat and Fellow Streamers Endure an Eight-Hour Wait for Album Drop
The anticipation surrounding I Am Music has been palpable across social media, especially considering its initial 2024 release date. Publicly, Cenat pressed Carti to release the album during a moment at the Grammy’s red carpet in February 2025, reflecting the excitement building among fans.
The day before its planned launch, on March 13, Carti informed Kai Cenat about the impending release set for midnight EST. However, much to the dismay of eager fans, the album’s debut was delayed. During Cenat’s stream, viewers witnessed an unexpected eight-hour countdown filled with conversations that included both frustration and humor, alongside his fellow streamers, ImDontai and Dabo. At one point, overwhelmed by anticipation, Kai expressed his emotional struggle:
“I don’t think I can wait bruh! (Crying) I don’t think I can wait Carti!”
At its peak, the stream attracted over 377,000 viewers, all waiting in suspense for the highly anticipated album release.