it was a decade ago when music was at an impressive pivot concerning creativity, everyone had a sound that couldn’t be ignored and could always be distinguished between who was who on a track. Here’s our top 10 album picks from a decade ago.
ASAP Ferg’s debut studio album, “Trap Lord,” was released in 2013 and received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to the trap genre. The album is a raw and gritty depiction of life in the streets, and Ferg’s unique delivery and lyrical style make for an engaging and immersive listening experience.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Shabba,” featuring ASAP Rocky. The song’s infectious beat and catchy hook make it an instant classic, and Ferg’s flow is on point throughout. The album’s title track, “Trap Lord,” is another standout, with Ferg reflecting on his rise to fame and the struggles he’s faced along the way.
Other standout tracks on the album include “Lord,” “Hood Pope,” and “Cocaine Castle.” Each of these tracks showcases Ferg’s unique style and his ability to paint vivid pictures with his lyrics. The production on the album is also noteworthy, with a variety of beats and sounds that keep the listener engaged from start to finish.
Overall, “Trap Lord” is an impressive debut album from ASAP Ferg. The album showcases his talent as a rapper and his ability to tell stories through his music. With its gritty lyrics and innovative production, “Trap Lord” is a must-listen for fans of the trap genre and hip-hop in general.
Drake’s “Nothing Was the Same” is an album that showcases the Canadian rapper’s versatility and skill as an artist. Released in 2013, the album received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics, polished production, and seamless blending of genres.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Started From the Bottom,” a catchy anthem about Drake’s rise to fame. The song’s infectious beat and confident lyrics make it a fan favorite, and it’s become one of Drake’s most popular songs.
Another notable track is “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” a smooth, R&B-influenced ballad that showcases Drake’s ability to write and perform romantic songs. The song’s throwback sound and catchy chorus make it a standout on the album and helped it become a chart-topping hit.
The album also features collaborations with artists like Jay-Z and Jhené Aiko, adding depth and variety to the overall sound of the record. Drake’s rapping on tracks like “Worst Behavior” and “The Language” is hard-hitting and confident, showcasing his ability to spit bars with the best of them.
Overall, “Nothing Was the Same” is a strong addition to Drake’s discography, and it’s considered by many to be one of his best albums to date. With its introspective lyrics, polished production, and catchy hooks, it’s a must-listen for any fan of hip-hop and R&B.
Kanye West’s “Yeezus” is a controversial and polarizing album that challenges the boundaries of hip-hop and electronic music. Released in 2013, the album is a departure from West’s earlier works, with a sound that is more abrasive, experimental, and minimalistic.
The album opens with “On Sight,” a track that sets the tone for the rest of the album with its distorted, industrial beat and aggressive lyrics. The album features some of West’s most daring and innovative work, with tracks like “Black Skinhead” and “I Am a God” showcasing his bravado and uncompromising attitude.
Despite its abrasive sound, “Yeezus” features some unexpected collaborations that work surprisingly well. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver lends his haunting vocals to “Hold My Liquor,” while dancehall artist Assassin adds a reggae flavor to “I’m In It.”
One of the standout features of “Yeezus” is its production. The beats are intricate, innovative, and heavily influenced by electronic music. Tracks like “Blood on the Leaves” and “Guilt Trip” use samples that are manipulated in unexpected ways, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Lyrically, “Yeezus” is a mixed bag. Some tracks, like “New Slaves” and “Bound 2,” showcase West’s clever wordplay and insightful social commentary. Others, like “I’m In It,” are more sexually explicit and controversial.
Overall, “Yeezus” is a challenging and divisive album that may not be for everyone. However, for those who appreciate innovative production and are willing to confront West’s provocative lyrics and attitude, it is a fascinating and rewarding listen.
ASAP Rocky’s “Long.Live.ASAP” is a stunning debut album that showcases the rapper’s unique style and artistic vision. Released in 2013, the album features a mix of trap, psychedelic, and cloud rap influences, with Rocky’s distinctive flow and lyrical prowess at the forefront.
The album opens with “Long Live ASAP,” a track that sets the tone for the rest of the album with its infectious hook and Rocky’s confident delivery. The album features a range of guest artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and Skrillex, each of whom adds their own flavor to the tracks they appear on.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Goldie,” a hypnotic and infectious track that features Rocky’s trademark flow over a sample of “Bubble Dance” by French singer Mylène Farmer. “F***in’ Problems,” featuring Drake, 2 Chainz, and Kendrick Lamar, is another standout track, with each artist bringing their own unique style to the table.
Despite the range of influences on the album, “Long.Live.ASAP” feels cohesive and well-crafted. The production is intricate and innovative, with a mix of hard-hitting beats and ethereal, dreamlike soundscapes. Tracks like “PMW (All I Really Need)” and “Suddenly” showcase the album’s psychedelic influences, with their hazy, otherworldly atmospheres.
Lyrically, Rocky is at the top of his game, showcasing his wit, wordplay, and introspection throughout the album. Tracks like “LVL” and “Phoenix” demonstrate his ability to craft complex, thought-provoking lyrics that stay with the listener long after the music has ended.
Overall, “Long.Live.ASAP” is a remarkable debut album that showcases ASAP Rocky’s versatility and vision. With its range of influences, innovative production, and clever lyrics, it is a timeless classic in the hip-hop canon.
J. Cole’s “Born Sinner” album, released in 2013, is a deeply introspective and personal project that explores themes of sin, redemption, and personal growth. The album showcases J. Cole’s versatility as a rapper and producer, with a range of different styles and influences on display throughout its 16 tracks.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Power Trip,” a hauntingly beautiful song that features vocals from singer Miguel. The track explores the complexities of love and obsession, with J. Cole delivering introspective verses over a moody and atmospheric beat. Another standout track is “Crooked Smile,” a more upbeat and hopeful song that features TLC on the hook. The track encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and be proud of who they are, with J. Cole rapping about his own struggles with self-acceptance.
The album’s title track, “Born Sinner,” is another highlight. The song features a sample of Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy,” and J. Cole uses the beat to reflect on his own journey from humble beginnings to rap superstardom. The track is a powerful meditation on the struggles of growing up in poverty and the constant battle to overcome one’s own shortcomings and flaws.
Throughout the album, J. Cole is unafraid to explore his own vulnerabilities and insecurities, which gives the project a sense of raw authenticity. He is equally skilled at delivering introspective verses and catchy hooks, which makes “Born Sinner” a highly engaging and satisfying listen from start to finish.
Overall, “Born Sinner” is a masterpiece of modern hip-hop, showcasing J. Cole’s unique talent and perspective. It is a must-listen for any fan of the genre, and stands as one of the most impressive and memorable albums of the past decade.
Kid Cudi’s “Indicud” is an album that showcases the rapper’s unique and introspective style. Released in 2013, the album contains 18 tracks, with features from artists such as Kendrick Lamar, RZA, and A$AP Rocky. The album is a departure from Cudi’s previous work, with the rapper taking on more production duties and experimenting with a range of different sounds.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Just What I Am,” featuring King Chip. The song features a catchy hook and introspective lyrics about Cudi’s struggles with drugs and fame. “Immortal” is another highlight, with Cudi reflecting on his legacy and the impact he hopes to have on the world. The track features a haunting instrumental and Cudi’s signature melodic flow.
The album as a whole is a journey through Cudi’s mind, with each track offering a unique perspective on his life and experiences. “Unfuckwittable” is a confident and empowering anthem, while “Brothers” is a heartfelt tribute to his family. “Solo Dolo Pt. II” featuring Kendrick Lamar is a standout collaboration, with both artists delivering introspective and personal verses over a soulful instrumental.
While the album is not without its flaws, with some tracks feeling underdeveloped or repetitive, it is a strong addition to Kid Cudi’s discography. The rapper’s willingness to take risks and experiment with different sounds and styles makes “Indicud” an exciting and engaging listen. Fans of Kid Cudi’s introspective and emotional style will find plenty to enjoy on this album.
Travis Scott’s debut mixtape, “Owl Pharaoh,” was released in 2013, and it quickly established the rapper as one of the most exciting new voices in hip-hop. The mixtape features 12 tracks and includes collaborations with artists such as A$AP Ferg, Meek Mill, and Theophilus London.
The mixtape opens with “Meadow Creek,” an atmospheric track that sets the tone for the rest of the project. “Quintana,” featuring Wale, is a standout track that showcases Scott’s ability to blend aggressive, hard-hitting beats with melodic vocals. The track became a fan favorite and helped to establish Scott’s signature sound.
Another highlight of the mixtape is “Uptown,” featuring A$AP Ferg. The track features a driving beat and aggressive lyrics that highlight Scott’s confidence and swagger. “Dance on the Moon” is another standout track, featuring a dreamy instrumental and introspective lyrics about the struggles of fame and success.
Throughout “Owl Pharaoh,” Scott demonstrates his ability to blend different styles and sounds, incorporating elements of trap, electronic, and psychedelic music. The mixtape is a raw and energetic debut that showcases Scott’s talent as both a rapper and a producer.
Overall, “Owl Pharaoh” is a strong debut that helped to establish Travis Scott as one of the most exciting new voices in hip-hop. The mixtape’s blend of hard-hitting beats and introspective lyrics set the stage for the rapper’s later releases, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
Jay-Z’s “Magna Carta Holy Grail” is the rapper’s twelfth studio album, released in 2013. The album features sixteen tracks and includes collaborations with artists such as Justin Timberlake, Frank Ocean, and Beyoncé.
The album opens with “Holy Grail,” featuring Justin Timberlake, a track that sets the tone for the rest of the project. The song features a haunting instrumental and introspective lyrics about Jay-Z’s struggles with fame and success. “Tom Ford” is another standout track, with Jay-Z delivering confident and boastful verses over a driving beat.
The album’s themes of wealth, power, and success are prevalent throughout, with Jay-Z reflecting on his own experiences and exploring the impact of money and power on society as a whole. “Oceans,” featuring Frank Ocean, is a powerful track that touches on issues such as slavery and the civil rights movement.
One of the most talked-about tracks on the album is “Jay-Z Blue,” in which the rapper reflects on his relationship with his daughter, Blue Ivy. The song features vulnerable and honest lyrics that showcase a more personal side of Jay-Z.
While the album is not without its flaws, with some tracks feeling underdeveloped or repetitive, it is a strong addition to Jay-Z’s discography. The rapper’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy hooks and hard-hitting beats is on full display throughout the project.
Overall, “Magna Carta Holy Grail” is a reflective and introspective album that showcases Jay-Z’s evolution as an artist and a businessman. The album is a testament to the rapper’s ability to stay relevant and innovative in an ever-changing music industry.
Wale’s third studio album, “The Gifted,” was released in 2013 and is widely considered to be one of the rapper’s best projects. The album features 16 tracks and includes collaborations with artists such as Meek Mill, Tiara Thomas, and Nicki Minaj.
The album opens with “The Curse of the Gifted,” a track that sets the tone for the rest of the project. The song features introspective lyrics about Wale’s struggles with fame and success, and a dreamy instrumental that creates a sense of introspection and reflection. “LoveHate Thing,” featuring Sam Dew, is another standout track, with Wale delivering emotional and introspective verses over a soulful instrumental.
Throughout “The Gifted,” Wale explores a range of themes, from his experiences with fame and success to issues of social justice and inequality. “Bad,” featuring Tiara Thomas, is a catchy and upbeat track that deals with issues of love and heartbreak, while “Golden Salvation (Jesus Piece)” is a powerful and emotional song that touches on issues of faith and spirituality.
One of the most impressive aspects of the album is Wale’s ability to blend different styles and sounds, incorporating elements of soul, jazz, and even go-go music. The result is an album that feels both innovative and timeless.
Overall, “The Gifted” is a strong and cohesive album that showcases Wale’s talent as both a rapper and a storyteller. The album’s blend of introspective lyrics, catchy hooks, and innovative production makes it a standout project in the rapper’s discography, and a must-listen for fans of hip-hop and rap music.
2 Chainz’s “B.O.A.T.S. II #METIME” is the rapper’s second studio album, released in 2013. The album features 17 tracks and includes collaborations with artists such as Pharrell Williams, Drake, and Lil Wayne.
The album opens with “Fork,” a track that sets the tone for the rest of the project with its hard-hitting beat and confident lyrics. “Feds Watching,” featuring Pharrell Williams, is another standout track, with 2 Chainz delivering catchy verses over a funky instrumental.
Throughout the album, 2 Chainz maintains his signature style of aggressive and boastful lyrics, delivering catchy hooks and hard-hitting verses over a range of different beats and instrumentals. However, while the album is undeniably fun and energetic, it also feels somewhat formulaic, with many of the tracks following a similar structure and sound.
That being said, there are still some standout tracks on the album, such as “Used 2,” a track that pays homage to the rapper’s roots in the southern rap scene, and “I Do It,” featuring Lil Wayne and Drake, a track that showcases the chemistry between the three rappers.
Overall, “B.O.A.T.S. II #METIME” is a solid album that will appeal to fans of 2 Chainz’s signature style. While the album may not be the most innovative or groundbreaking project, it is a fun and energetic addition to the rapper’s discography that showcases his talent as both a rapper and a performer.
