On February 25, 2022, Buffalo’s own Conway The Machine released his deeply personal and highly anticipated studio album God Don’t Make Mistakes, a record that signified both a major milestone in his career and a powerful statement of resilience.
Known for his gritty lyricism and connection to the Griselda collective, Conway used this release to dig deeper than ever before. The project came out under Shady Records, marking his debut studio album with the label, and offered fans an intimate glimpse into the trials and triumphs that shaped his life and artistry.
A Career-Defining Moment
God Don’t Make Mistakes was more than just another entry in Conway’s prolific discography—it was a defining chapter. Already revered in underground hip-hop circles for his lyrical dexterity and unflinching honesty, Conway elevated the stakes with this release.
Featuring 12 tracks, the album includes collaborations with Westside Gunn and Benny The Butcher—his Griselda cohorts—as well as appearances from Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Jill Scott, and T.I. Each guest verse added texture and dimension, complementing Conway’s hard-hitting delivery.
But what truly set this album apart was its introspective tone. From themes of trauma and survival to reflections on fame and personal growth, Conway didn’t shy away from vulnerability.
The Power of Storytelling
Tracks like “Stressed” and “God Don’t Make Mistakes” peeled back the curtain on Conway’s mental health battles, family struggles, and the lingering impact of a 2012 shooting that left him with partial facial paralysis. Far from seeking sympathy, Conway turned pain into poetry, using each bar to illustrate his journey.
In “Tear Gas” featuring Lil Wayne and Rick Ross, Conway addresses his past head-on with poignant lines that touch on loss, legacy, and living with a sense of purpose. Meanwhile, songs like “Piano Love” and “John Woo Flick” offer a return to his street-centric roots, providing fans with the gritty bravado that first drew attention to his work.
Artistic Growth and Mainstream Recognition
The production on the album is another standout aspect. With beats crafted by The Alchemist, Daringer, Hit-Boy, and others, the sonic landscape shifts seamlessly from haunting loops to booming drums. This variety allowed Conway to stretch creatively, maintaining cohesion while exploring different styles.
Upon its release, the album received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Many praised Conway for his emotional depth and for elevating his lyrical storytelling to new heights. The balance of vulnerability and strength resonated with listeners, earning the project top spots on several year-end lists.
This recognition was not just a personal victory for Conway, but a broader affirmation of Griselda’s rising influence in the rap industry. The Buffalo-based crew, once considered an outlier in the New York hip-hop scene, had firmly established themselves as innovators bringing substance back into the spotlight.
Looking Ahead
In interviews following the release, Conway reflected on the significance of God Don’t Make Mistakes. He described it as his most authentic work to date, noting that it took years of lived experience to create something so raw and reflective. As he looks to the future, the album stands as a benchmark—not just in terms of skill, but of emotional bravery.
Conway The Machine’s God Don’t Make Mistakes is more than just a collection of tracks—it’s a narrative of endurance, transformation, and self-acceptance. Released on February 25, 2022, it solidified his place as one of the most compelling voices in modern hip-hop.