Days Before Rodeo

Travis Scott dropped Days Before Rodeo on August 18, 2014, straight to SoundCloud without a single radio push or official video. This mixtape bridged the gap between his lo-fi debut Owl Pharaoh and the polished major-label sound of Rodeo. Grand Hustle Records handled the initial distribution while Scott cultivated a cult following through raw online engagement rather than traditional marketing channels.

The project runs about 50 minutes across 15 tracks, blending heavy synthesizers with distorted bass lines to create a dark, psychedelic atmosphere. Mike Dean produced alongside Southside, AudioKlique, and C Gutta to shape the sonic texture. Guest spots include Migos on "Backyard" and "Sloppy Toppy", Young Thug on "Skyfall", T.I., Peewee Longway, and The 1975 on "O: The Prayer". Lyrics dive into Houston street life and introspection using Scott's signature slurred vocal delivery.

Cactus Jack and Epic Records finally brought the album to all major streaming platforms on its tenth anniversary in August 2024. This re-release included vault tracks featuring Playboi Carti and Quavo that had never been heard before. Vinyl sales drove the project to number two on the Billboard 200, though it vanished from the charts quickly as physical stock ran out. Critics praised the cohesive vision upon its digital arrival, with The Fader calling it Scott's best work ten years later. [edit]