T.I. has perfected the code of the streets and effectively translated that language to the masses. From the hood to Hollywood, the Atlantan pens anthems that straddle the line between radio bangers and solid ratchet gold. It’s a gift that manifests itself on his ninth studio album, Paperwork: an amalgam of sounds that bounce from mainstream cuts to social commentary, back around to Tip’s signature Trap Rap. On the opener “King", Tip flips syllables over a threatening Mars Of 1500 Or Nothin’ soundbed, while later Pharrell Williams shows up to assist on a poignant ode to Tip’s fallen mentee Doe B, “Light Em Up,” and brings a less-poppy change of pace on the ferocious “Oh Yeah” (a cousin to his punchy turn on Future’s “Move That Dope”). Star cameos include Usher, Lil Boosie, Jeezy, Chris Brown, and Skylar Grey on "New National Anthem" – which was originally intended for Lady Gaga. "Unfortunately she was really busy with her current project," T.I. tells Dazed. "But Skylar ended up being the perfect choice." Listen to the album on Dazed below, which also features necessary production DJ Mustard, and Mike WiLL Made It. "I think it’s my best work to date," T.I. continues. "it doesn’t feel rushed so I am really pleased with it." Sometimes taking your time is the key, and Paperwork was so worth the wait.

Paperwork is out on October 20 on RCA Records/Grand Hustle. Pre-order here