A-Q God’s Engineering 3 Album Review: Mastery, Resilience, and the Art of Hip-Hop
The release of God’s Engineering 3 (The Beginning) marks the final chapter in A-Q’s critically acclaimed trilogy. Across this record, the veteran Nigerian rapper distills over two decades of experience into a compelling blend of storytelling, introspection, and mastery. The album not only reflects on personal trials but also provides a blueprint for discipline, perseverance, and artistic excellence.
The Journey to the Final Chapter
When A-Q released God’s Engineering in 2020, he hinted that it could be his last album. Four more projects later—The Live Report, Golden, Ethos, God’s Engineering 2, and Purple Doesn’t Exist—he delivers what is presented as the trilogy’s conclusion. With 38 years of life experience and 22 years in the music industry, A-Q’s work stands as a testament to endurance and refined lyricism.
This final installment opens with a reflective monologue that encapsulates his philosophy: patience, sacrifice, and unwavering focus. He positions the album as the payoff for years of dedication, even through personal and professional hardships.
Themes of Resilience and Integrity
The opener, Ramlat Timson Str., sets the tone by revisiting a turbulent childhood shaped by his father’s job loss, the loss of two brothers, and a period of homelessness. Rather than dwell in despair, A-Q frames these moments as foundations for resilience.
From discovering Hip-Hop to working at Chocolate City and signing Blaqbonez to his 100 Crowns imprint, A-Q connects personal triumph to professional milestones. The track delivers hope for those who choose the “long road” in a society obsessed with quick gains.
Celebrating Survival
Proud of Life, featuring Ajebo Hustlers and Qing Madi, shifts to a celebratory tone, recognizing the value of survival itself. The record’s uplifting hook underscores gratitude for life’s victories, no matter how hard-won.
Lessons from the Streets
Die by It provides a cautionary narrative about the dangers of succumbing to the pressures of one’s environment. Assisted by Bkay, A-Q recounts life in Surulere—highlighting how Hip-Hop became both passion and escape. The song reinforces his commitment to the craft as a discipline rooted in truth, mastery, and respect.
Challenging the Status Quo
On Who’s Really Rapping, A-Q and Blaqbonez dissect the current state of Nigerian Hip-Hop. His bars carry the authority of a seasoned MC, rejecting superficiality and asserting competence earned through decades of dedication.
Tracks like "Loss in Translation" (with Kabex) and "R.O.I.." extend his critique to industry practices, from streaming manipulation to misguided financial priorities among peers. These songs blend sharp commentary with personal insight, delivered over strong production.
Historical Reflection and Self-Dialogue
In Class of '66, A-Q draws from historical texts to narrate Nigeria’s political upheavals, blending fact with lyrical craftsmanship. Note to Self takes a more intimate approach, imagining his future self and questioning the lasting value of his sacrifices. The song serves as a reminder to stay present while pursuing long-term goals.
A Grateful Farewell
The closer, One Last Time, is both a prayer and a moment of self-recognition. A-Q reflects on escaping past repercussions, breaking generational cycles, and reaching a place of peace. It serves as a fitting end not only to the album but also to the God’s Engineering trilogy—a series defined by discipline, truth, and mastery.
Review Overview:
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Songwriting: 9/10
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Production: 8/10
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Sequence: 8/10
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Enjoyability: 9/10
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Delivery: 8/10
God’s Engineering 3 is a masterful conclusion to A-Q’s defining trilogy, offering a blueprint for purposeful living through the lens of Hip-Hop. Whether or not this is truly his final work, its legacy is secure.