400 Degreez, released on November 3, 1998, brought the gritty sound of New Orleans rap to the forefront and established Juvenile as a major force in hip-hop. With production by Mannie Fresh, the album became a defining moment for Cash Money Records, showcasing the bounce-heavy beats and streetwise lyricism that would come to dominate Southern rap.

The album’s breakout single, “Back That Azz Up,” is a party anthem for the ages. Combining infectious strings with a booming beat, Juvenile delivered a track that was both club-ready and culturally iconic. It became a defining sound of the late ’90s, earning heavy rotation on radio and in nightlife scenes across the country.

Juvenile’s storytelling shines on tracks like “Ha,” where his gritty delivery and conversational style paint vivid pictures of struggle and survival in the Magnolia Projects. The song’s unconventional structure and raw honesty resonated deeply, making it one of the most memorable tracks on the album.

Other highlights include “Follow Me Now” and “Ghetto Children,” where Mannie Fresh’s innovative production complements Juvenile’s unfiltered reflections on life in New Orleans. The album strikes a balance between the celebratory energy of bounce music and the sobering realities of street life, giving it a dynamic emotional range.

400 Degreez was a commercial triumph, eventually reaching quadruple-platinum status. It not only cemented Juvenile’s place in the rap pantheon but also put Cash Money Records on the map, paving the way for future stars like Lil Wayne and Birdman.

The album’s influence on Southern rap and its enduring legacy as a cultural touchstone cannot be overstated. 400 Degreez remains a testament to the creativity and resilience of New Orleans’ hip-hop scene, a bold declaration of Juvenile’s artistry and the bounce movement’s unstoppable energy.