Surviving the tumultuous year of 2020 is an accomplishment in itself. From the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to the global protests for social justice, it’s safe to say that bidding farewell to 2020 feels like a relief. However, amidst the chaos, one thing that never fails to lift spirits is music. Despite everything, 2020 brought us a plethora of outstanding hip-hop albums that served as a much-needed escape from the harsh reality.
Our expert writers have curated a list of their top ten favorite hip-hop albums from the past year. These albums not only entertained us but also provided a much-needed distraction from the trying times. Some standout releases include Jay Electronica’s powerful collaboration with Jay-Z on “A Written Testimony,” Westside Gunn’s impressive “Pray For Paris,” Freddie Gibbs’ hit album “Alfredo” with Alchemist, and the emergence of Stove God Cooks as a rising star in the hip-hop scene.
Take a journey through our selection of the finest hip-hop albums of 2020, and enjoy the artistry and creativity that shone through in a year filled with challenges. Each album on this list has its unique charm and deserves to be celebrated. So, sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the sounds of 2020.
In the realm of collaborations, Freddie Gibbs and Alchemist’s “Alfredo” stands out as a masterpiece. Following up on the success of “Bandana,” this album showcases their musical synergy at its peak. From the haunting synths of “God Is Perfect” to the slick beats of “Scottie Beam,” and the lyrical prowess displayed in “Look At Me,” “Alfredo” is a stellar addition to both artists’ repertoire. The album not only soared on the charts but also earned the duo a well-deserved GRAMMY nomination.
Westside Gunn’s “Pray For Paris” is a luxurious journey into the world of high-end drug rap. Inspired by a fashion show in France, this album strikes a balance between gritty Griselda vibes and stylistic extravagance. With soulful tracks like “George Bondo,” the opulent “Versace,” and the infectious “French Toast,” Westside Gunn showcases his versatility and cements his position as a top-tier artist in the rap scene.
Benny the Butcher’s “Burden Of Proof” is a testament to his lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities. Backed by Hit-Boy’s stellar production, Benny delivers hard-hitting tracks like “Trade It All” and “Thank God I Made It.” With features from industry heavyweights like Conway the Machine, Freddie Gibbs, and Rick Ross, this album solidifies Benny’s status as one of the best in the game.
Conway the Machine’s “From King to a God” is a standout project from the Griselda collective. With hard-hitting tracks like “From King” and “Frontlines,” Conway addresses pressing issues with unapologetic honesty. Featuring collaborations with Method Man, Freddie Gibbs, and Benny the Butcher, this album is a tantalizing preview of the excellence to come from Conway in the future.
“Reasonable Drought” by Stove God Cooks has emerged as a pleasant surprise in the hip-hop landscape. His unique style and infectious beats make this album a must-listen for any rap enthusiast. With tracks like “Hey Mek, you should listen to Reasonable Drought when you have the chance. I think you’ll like it a lot,” Stove God Cooks proves that he is a force to be reckoned with in the rap game.
Let these incredible albums be the soundtrack to your journey through 2020’s highs and lows. The artists behind these projects have poured their hearts and souls into their music, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Embrace the artistry, soak in the vibes, and let the power of music guide you through the challenges of the past year.The impact of a remarkable artist lingers in the history of hip hop, breathing new life into New York’s rap scene and influencing many musicians. Marci’s album “Mt. Marci” showcases his distinctive style. “Drought” marks a significant moment for Roc, who transitioned from Busta Rhymes’ protégé to collaborating with his latest protégé, Stove God Cooks. Their fusion of Roc’s signature beats with Cooks’ captivating lyrical prowess resulted in one of the most intriguing rap albums of the year. In 12 tracks, Cooks compares his work to Cinderella’s glass slippers, gets his message baptized in a church parking lot, and proudly claims his role as the “Celine Dion of the kitchen.”
Moving on, Jay Electronica finally released his highly anticipated album “A Written Testimony” after years of speculation. The album, featuring Jay-Z, explores profound themes like judgment, legacies, and death, showcasing both artists’ lyrical prowess. Despite some criticism of guest appearances occasionally overshadowing Jay Electronica, the album still resonates with his beliefs and teachings, meeting the high expectations set over his decade-long hiatus.
Royce 5’9″ shines with his first self-produced album “The Allegory,” receiving well-deserved recognition for his work. With contributions from notable artists, Royce reflects on life’s experiences, offering listeners valuable lessons. The project earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album, affirming Royce’s talent in the industry.
Boldy James emerges as a standout artist, releasing four compelling projects in the past year. Collaborating with producers like Alchemist and Sterling Toles, Boldy captivates with his relaxed flow and introspective themes. His versatile sound ranges from soulful melodies to gritty beats, solidifying his position as a rising star in rap.
Lil Baby’s album “My Turn” continues his successful streak in 2020, resonating with listeners through relatable lyrics and dynamic tracks. His ability to seamlessly blend personal struggles with confident anthems showcases his growth as an artist.
TDE’s REASON delivers “New Beginnings,” a project that reflects on personal growth and challenges in the music industry. The honesty and raw emotion in tracks like “I Can’t Make It” and “Fall” highlight REASON’s lyrical skill and introspective storytelling.
These albums stand out as some of the best releases of the year, captivating audiences with their unique styles and compelling narratives.
