Billy Woods' 'GOLLIWOG' Delivers a Haunting Exploration of Black Identity

12 May 2025

billy woods – GOLLIWOG by Backwoodz Studioz

In his latest solo endeavor, GOLLIWOG, released on May 9, 2025, via Backwoodz Studioz, Billy Woods confronts the complexities of Black identity through a fusion of horrorcore and alternative hip-hop. This album marks Woods' first solo project since 2019's Terror Management and follows his 2023 collaboration with Kenny Segal, Maps.

The album's title references the "golliwog," a racist caricature historically depicted as a ragdoll, symbolizing the dehumanization of Black individuals. Woods' choice to center his album around this figure is a deliberate act of reclamation and critique, challenging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about racial stereotypes and their lingering impact.

GOLLIWOG comprises 18 tracks, each weaving narratives that blend elements of horror, surrealism, and Afro Pessimism. The album features collaborations with artists such as ELUCID, Cavalier, Bruiser Wolf, Despot, al.divino, and Yolanda Watson. Production credits include a diverse array of talents like The Alchemist, Kenny Segal, EL-P, Conductor Williams, Preservation, Messiah Musik, Sadhugold, Ant (Atmosphere), Shabaka Hutchings, Steel Tipped Dove, DJ Haram, Willie Green, Jeff Markey, Saint Abdullah, and the experimental jazz trio Human Error Club.

The album opens with "Jumpscare," setting a tone of unease that permeates the project. Tracks like "Misery," produced by Kenny Segal, and "BLK XMAS," featuring Bruiser Wolf, delve into themes of despair and the commodification of Black culture. "Counterclockwise," produced by The Alchemist, and "Corinthians," featuring Despot and produced by EL-P, showcase Woods' lyrical dexterity and ability to navigate complex subject matter

Critics have lauded GOLLIWOG for its unflinching exploration of societal issues. Liam Inscoe-Jones of The Line of Best Fit rated the album 9/10, noting its grounding in real-world horrors. Shaad D'Souza of The Guardian awarded it 4 out of 5 stars, highlighting moments of beauty amidst the bleakness. John Amen of Beats Per Minute praised Woods' eloquence, while Paul Attard of Slant Magazine emphasized the album's confrontational nature. Tom Morgan of Clash described it as an abrasive, demanding work, and Adam Turner-Heffer of The Skinny gave it a perfect score, calling it a rewarding experience despite its disorienting nature .

The album's cover art, featuring a golliwog doll amidst a forest setting, reinforces its themes of confronting historical racism and the haunting legacy of such imagery. Woods' decision to use this symbol challenges listeners to engage with the discomfort it evokes, prompting reflection on the pervasive nature of racial stereotypes.

GOLLIWOG stands as a testament to Billy Woods' commitment to pushing the boundaries of hip-hop. Through its intricate production, poignant collaborations, and fearless thematic exploration, the album invites listeners into a space of introspection and critical engagement with the realities of Black existence in a society fraught with systemic oppression.

As Woods continues to carve his path in the music industry, GOLLIWOG solidifies his reputation as an artist unafraid to tackle challenging subjects, using his platform to shed light on the complexities of identity, history, and resistance