Young Jeezy Drops ‘The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102′ Album – Today in Hip-Hop

On this day, Dec. 12, in hip-hop history...

2006: Atlanta rapper, Young Jeezy, had already making a name for himself in hip-hop in the early-2000s, and thanks to his major label debut Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101 in '05, the MCs career was taken to new heights. But it was his sophomore album, The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102, released on December 12, 2006 through CTE and Def Jam, that proved that The Snowman was was a "Go Getta" with staying power in the game.

The Inspiration served as the follow up to his 2005 hit project, but this time around, Jeezy was determined to gain major radio rotation. Singles from the 16-track album include the triumphant "I Luv It," produced by DJ Toomp, the motivating "Go Getta," featuring R. Kelly and the heartfelt "Dreamin," featuring Keyshia Cole. With each hit single, the raspy-voiced MC with signature bravado began to take over the airwaves.

The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102 debuted at No. 1 on the US Billboard 200, moving 352,000 physical copies in the first week, and in 2009, the album was certified platinum in sales by the RIAA. The Snowman had worked his magic on Hip-Hop seemingly out of nowhere. In addition to ruling the charts, The Inspiration enjoyed favorable reviews. In the original XXL album review, the project was said to be seeking a "standing ovation," wrote Paul Arnold. "Those lampooning Jeezy’s juvenile ad-libs and sordid drug tales need to note that he’s not a rapper—he’s a motivational speaker."

Now, ten years later, The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102 still stands as a testament to Jeezy's transformative power and ability to simultaneously hold down the streets and grab the radio. Check out how The Inspiration ranks in Jeezy's total discography here.

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