Iggy Azalea Announces Release Date For New Album

With a laid-back, homegirl next door personality that seamlessly meshes with her total badassness, rapper Iggy Azalea officially has me wrapped around her finger, wedged somewhere in between the loose ends of that fabulous high ponytail she so effortlessly flips over her shoulder. The fact that as a 16-year-old, she had the sheer gall and mature insight to leave her small Australian hometown to avoid the "getting stuck syndrome" makes her an inspirational artist of "she-roic" proportions in my book. So it's no surprise that I'm super stoked that Iggy Azalea's releasing her debut album The New Classic .

There are plenty of reasons to get excited about this, but allow me to refresh your memory on why this announcement is being met with great anticipation on behalf of excited Azalea fans like myself.

1. For one, XXL magazine helped put her on the map in 2012 when they made her the first woman to ever be included on their famous Freshmen list. The selection, however, wasn't without controversy and like lots of other incidents, it pissed off fellow rapper Azealia Banks. That honor was nearly two years ago, making this album release way past overdue.
2. Next, there's just her overall swag, if you will, and I can't wait to see how it's displayed in a full Azalea album. It has already been confirmed that previous tracks "Work," "Fancy," and "Change Your Life" will be included on the new release. If the other songs are anything like what she's offered up so far, I fully expect The New Classic to feature tunes that will be the soundtrack to my summer.
3. Along came an album announcement...and a tour! In addition to posting the album cover art on Instagram, Azalea revealed 14 city tour dates, none of which are near me. In the meantime, I will live vicariously through those who are able to attend.
4. Finally, just when I thought she couldn't get any cooler, she goes and shoots a video that pays homage to the 1995 cult classic, and my personal lullaby on film, Clueless. I'm totally looking forward to her take on the infamous highway scene. For an idea of how she includes TV and film elements in her videos, check out her Toddlers & Tiaras-themed video for 2012's "Murda Bizness."

The only bone I have to pick with Azalea is her senseless claim to twerk fame, but I'm sure all will be forgiven upon April 15, which is the release date for The New Classic. Those who pre-order on March 4 will receive an instant treat in the form of the song "Impossible is Nothing." Those are words to silence the naysayers who question her rap skills and authenticity. Like being a blonde Australian chick should stop her from making her mark on the hip hop scene?! As if.