Westside Gunn - Heels Have Eyes 2 (Album)
August 29th was already shaping up to be a monumental day for new music releases, the kind of date hip-hop fans circle on the calendar knowing the floodgates will open. But in true Flygod fashion, Westside Gunn decided to remind the world that he doesn’t follow anyone’s schedule but his own.
Originally, “Heels Have Eyes 2” was set to drop alongside the other heavy hitters on the 29th. Instead, Gunn pivoted, announcing that the project would land a day early on “Westside Gunn Day,” coinciding with the 4th Rope event in Buffalo celebrating his artistry and legacy. It was another example of Gunn’s unshakable confidence and self-determined pacing, proving that when the Flygod moves, the masses adjust.
What makes “Heels Have Eyes 2” so compelling is the way Westside Gunn balances presence and restraint. It feels as if he’s in the backseat of his own vehicle, letting the ride play out smoothly, yet somehow still gripping the wheel when it matters most.
He’ll deliver a verse so monumental it shifts the atmosphere, but then intentionally steps back to let either the production or the features take center stage. This paired with his innate ability to direct the entire aesthetic and sonic vibe is rare in hip-hop. Gunn doesn’t just command attention; he curates it. His vision for the project allows others to shine without dimming his own light.
Westside Gunn has long been known for championing the artists and producers in his orbit, and “Heels Have Eyes 2” is no exception. The feature list is sharp, deliberate, and full of chemistry: MIKE, Stove God Cooks, and Brother Tom Sos. Each artist is given room to breathe and contribute their own magic, while Gunn provides the glue that binds it all together.
Rather than stacking the tracklist with unnecessary names for clout, he opts for collaborators who align with the vision, those who understand the texture, mood, and essence of the project. The result is a body of work that feels whole, not crowded.
The production choices further reinforce Gunn’s masterclass in restraint. The beats carry the DNA of his Flygod brand, dusty yet luxurious, raw yet opulent. They’re the kind of instrumentals that invite deep listening, where subtle layers reveal themselves over time. When Gunn steps to the mic, he elevates the moment. But when he doesn’t, the production and guest verses still carry the same weight, showing his trust in the artistry around him. It’s the mark of someone who understands that a project isn’t about ego; it’s about impact.
Westside Gunn’s legacy isn’t just about being a rapper, it’s about being a cultural force. “Heels Have Eyes 2” reinforces his position as someone who operates on his own frequency, confident in his ability to deliver without chasing trends or release-day hype.
He’s a leader who doesn’t need to dominate every second of his own project to make it unforgettable. Instead, he leads with a mighty, godly force, elevating those around him, trusting in the vision, and reminding listeners that the Flygod will never stop.