In my best Aaron “DJ Hed” Drake Jr. impression, it’s a good time to say, “West Coast!”
On Friday, April 25, 2025, the Top Dawg Entertainment formally introduced the world to its newest star — Ray Vaughn. Signed to the legendary of the legendary west coast imprint at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he’s released EPs, freestyles and loosies en route to this moment — the release of his debut mixtape under the TDE banner.
Ray Vaughn’s The Good, The Bad, The Dollar Menu is an 11-track highlight reel showcasing the Long Beach native’s dynamic skillset. From the deeply sentimental and emotionally revealing “FLAT shasta” featuring Ash Leone to the anthemic “Look @ God” featuring LaRussell, the TDE signee proved his versatility, seamlessly transitioning from storytelling tracks to collaborative hits. Most impressive, he did it all in 11 tracks and 42 minutes. In short, The Good, The Bad, The Dollar Menu feels like a ride through hot, summer day in Long Beach as Ray Vaughn juggles family trauma, poverty and the desire to make it big. Meanwhile, his friends are doing everything in their power to keep him grounded and prevent him from doing something dumb.
Ray Vaughn’s The Good, The Bad, The Dollar Menu adds to the lore of the legendary TDE label as it enters its next chapter following the departure of Kendrick Lamar. With Doechii winning a GRAMMY Award, Alemeda preparing her next project, and Ray Vaughn releasing his debut mixtape, it feels like TDE hasn’t missed a step.
