Flashback Friday: Kanye West and Nas

All week long we’ve been chatting about the best albums of the 2000s – check out our full list right here. Today, let’s keep it going with two great albums that are too often overlooked in current rap discussions.

Kanye West, Late Registration (2005)

Last week Twitter celebrated the 12-year anniversary of the release of Kanye’s sophomore smash. And while most Twitter anniversaries make me roll my eyes like the Undertaker, I’ll take any chance I can get to show this album the love it deserves. Crammed with hit singles and unforgettable album cuts, it showcased Kanye’s ascent into stardom.

Also check out:

“Touch the Sky,” featuring Lupe Fiasco

“Drive Slow,” featuring Paul Wall and GLC

Nas, Untitled (2008)

Nas’ 2008 untitled album is a crystal ball of insight into current American politics. While most critics were caught up in the firestorm over the album’s original title back in ’08, the rest of us looked deeper into Nas’ message – a foreboding and often uncomfortable examination of the black experience. Y’all weren’t ready for this album back then; I hope you’re ready now.

Also check out:

“N.I.G.G.E.R. (The Slave and the Master)”

“Queens Get the Money”

Now, it’s your turn. Email soulinstereoblog@gmail.com  hit me up on Twitter @etbowser, or stop by the comments section and share your Flashback Friday album. Leave a couple of sentences describing what makes it so great. I’ll feature your album on the blog.