In September 2012, NYC rapper Joey Badass releases the mixtape, “Rejex”, a complilation of songs that didn’t make it on the debut project, 1999. Earlier in the year, Joey tweeted out that he and Pro Era were taking submissions for cover art for an upcoming project called “Rejex”. I sent over a variety of work, and after a brief email exchange, what would be the official cover was selected by Joey.
ClientJoey Bada$$ServicesGraphic DesignLinksoundcloud.comYear2012
Because the songs were rejects, or "throw aways" as it's often referred to in the industry, my idea was to create a paper ball effect of his last project, 1999. The paper ball represents the unforgiving writing process when you're struggling to find the words to say.
The other concept was a rough textured rendition of the 1999 cover. This idea fit what I considered Joey's visual identity and based on the context of the music videos that were previously released like "Survival Tactics" featuring Capital STEEZ. Joey liked the paper ball more.
Released during the pinnacle of the "blog era", the project and cover art were featured on most major music publications and blogs; NahRight, Pitchfork, Okayplayer, Complex, 2DopeBoyz, etc.