2020 has overall been a pretty crazy year. Between a global pandemic, quarantine, and an above-average prediction for natural disasters such as hurricanes, there has been a lot going on. With all of these negative events happening, people have been so grateful to have things that bring the human race closer together, like technology and, of course, music. With all of this extra time on your hands, surely you have had some extra time to listen to some new albums. But in case you are looking for some additional inspiration, check out these top 10 hot new rap albums of 2020.
Revenge of the Dreamer III: Director’s Cut- J. Cole
This is a compilation studio album where J. Cole has collaborated with several different artists, including DaBaby and Ty Dolla Sign. During the creation of the album in Atlanta last year, he produced over 124 songs, but only 18 made it on the album. Each song was chosen carefully. The album hopes to reflect on how we are all connected in this day and age, so that is why he has chosen to work with others. This album really helps to see the beauty of working together to make something beautiful and noteworthy.
Circles- Mac Miller
After the abrupt passing of Mac Miller in 2018, many of his fans were left feeling hopeless and caught off guard. Even though many people did not know Mac Miller personally, they were deeply affected by his death. Circles is a special album that is a culmination of music he was working on before his passing. It was made to follow-up his Grammy-nominated album, “Swimming.” The album is not the traditional hard rap that you would expect, but instead, a softer hip hop album that is just what his fans needed to find closure.
Suga- Megan Thee Stallion
The Suga album has blown up. Anyone who has access to music has definitely heard this album. The song has been featured on the TikTok app, where people have created a choreographed dance to her song ‘Savage.’ There has even been a remix made with Beyonce. This has been a large attribution to the album’s success and has brought joy and happiness to millions of people all over the world, struggling with their new normal. This is ironic because the album itself is truly Megan Thee Stallion coming to grips with her no realities.
Music to Be Murdered By- Eminem
This album is surely an Eminem album with his signature rockstar style. However, the album has taken a shot at social advocacy on topics from gun control to sexual harassment. The album includes a song featuring the late rapper Juice WRLD with a tribute in the music video. After the release of the album, Eminem returned to the number one spot for Artist 100 on Billboard Music. This is the album that his fans have been waiting for, and it definitely did not disappoint. If you are looking for a good mix of music types, including Eminem’s legendary freestyle, this is a great album to turn to.
Pray for Paris- Westside Gunn
Westside Gun is a rapper who just keeps getting better. This album brings you back with a 90’s flare. Some songs offer a classical undertone even. Westside Gunn is very outlandish and makes listening to his music very fun and exciting; you never quite know what he is going to say next. The album also has some notable features including Tyler the Creator, Billie Essco, and Conway the Machine. This could not have come at a more perfect time than now.
A Written Testimony- Jay Electronica
Jay Electronica has been kind of a ghost that pops up at random times. This is his debut album, and it has been long-awaited. The album lives up to the hype and is some of the best new music put out this year, supported by both Jay-Z and Travis Scott. The album ranges from lo-fi tones to a thick base. The album also features some spiritual aspects and incorporates the nation of Islam. If you have not discovered his music, spend some time getting to know this up and coming artist.
Unlocked- Denzel Curry & Kenny Beats
‘Unlocked’ pays homage to the 90s style in a modern and contemporary way. Denzel Curry and Kenny Beats seamlessly integrate their styles to produce an album that is cohesive and appreciated. The album is short with only 8 tracks, but it includes a lot and is quality over quantity for sure. The video is also something special with animated shorts in different animation styles to portray the narrative. Between the album itself and the animated short it truly allows the music to come to life and allow people to truly appreciate their work.
The Price of Tea in China- Boldy James & Alchemist
This album is all over the place when it comes to style. It ranges from creepy vibes to very calming and relaxing. They have truly shown their full range of talents on this album. They truly have a way of storytelling that you are just in awe of what they are sharing. The beats are really minimal and do not overwhelm the audience. Minimal does not mean boring, they did it very tastefully. It lets you truly appreciate what they are saying.
The Allegory- Royce da 5’9”
This mixtape has a very enlightening theme to portray to the audience. Royce da 5’9” is using this album to invite people to his faith and bring these thoughts into people’s homes and lives. He soars high above others in his ability to tell a unique and detailed story. It is a great listen for someone who really wants to think about and dissect what is being said.
All My Heroes Are Dead- R.A. the Rugged Man
Released mid-April 2020, the new release album ‘All My Heroes Are Dead’ has created a large stir in the rap community. Many people are very impressed and have truly enjoyed listening. His album is very long but filled with great content. The songs speak to his personal experiences and portray his emotions well. Even though he may not be as well known as some of the other artists on this list, it surely deserves its spot.
It is not even halfway through 2020 and there have already been some amazing music created. With all of the time that rappers and other artists have had to reflect on their experiences, who knows what other music will come out of this. At least music will hopefully continue to connect us all in shared experiences and hope for the future. Keep an eye out in Hollywood for release dates related to new albums that are dropped. We are expecting to see new music from great hip hop stars like Drake, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Baby in 2020. In the meantime, enjoy these top 10 rap albums of 2020 so far by adding them to your playlist.
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