The 50 Best Albums of 2019
2019, you were a piece of work.
Of all the years I’ve covered as Master of Ceremonies here at SoulInStereo.com, 2019 seemed to be the most bizarre 12 months of them all.
It seemed like the biggest acts in music were celebrated for almost everything BUT their actual music. Several legends returned with new music after decade-long hiatuses … only to fall flat on their faces. And some of the industry’s most hyped prospects released highly anticipated projects that quickly went nowhere fast. Of course, that didn’t stop loyal stans from dying on every hill imaginable to defend their faves – until they found something new to argue about on Twitter the next day.
Playa please.
That said, 2019 was filled with quality music, you just had know where to look.
That’s probably why Soul In Stereo’s Top 50 year-end list you’re about to enjoy probably won’t look like those others.
According to my notes – cuz notes are important – over the past 12 months I’ve listened to 104 albums/mixtapes/EPs/whatever you call ’em these days. I reviewed many of them right here.
Quite frankly, the best albums of 2019 were the ones that flew under the radar and didn’t spur endless social media wars. Some were throwbacks to bygone eras while others dragged listeners out of their comfort zones, blending multiple genres together for a fresh new sound. These albums celebrated freedom, womanhood, blackness and individuality. Some wanted you to think, others wanted you to be angry. And then there are those that just wanted you to have fun.
You might not recognize all the names on this list but if you’re a fan of music get to know them. While everyone else talks about being the best, they’re the ones who delivered.
Honorable mentions:
Daron Jones, Human
The HamilTones, Watch the Ton3s
Styles P, Presence
Shay Lia, Dangerous
Your Old Droog, It Wasn’t Even Close
Tyler, the Creator, IGOR
Dave East, Survival
Daniel Caesar, Case Study 01
2 Chainz, Rap or Go to the League
Conway the Machine, Everything is F.O.O.D. 3
50. Johnny Gill, Game Changer 2
The first Game Changer album was so nice, Johnny was like “yo, we doin’ it twice.” Game Changer 2’s biggest win is its ability to juggle several different genres and not lose its steam. Johnny showcases every trick in his playbook, proving why he’s one of R&B’s most renowned voices.
_______________________________________________________________
49. Rick Ross, Port of Miami 2
Credit when it’s due: Rick Ross is a man with has an immaculate ear for beat selection. But often his lyrics are like a revolving door of non sequiturs – great for sporadic witty punchlines but quickly get tuned out in favor of the superior instrumentals. The result is a catalog of occasionally great songs spread thinly across a collection of so-so albums. Port of Miami 2, to its credit, does a great job of reversing that trend. Surprisingly solid storytelling comes to the forefront on this one, giving Rawse’s bars some much-needed focus. And of course, the beats hit hard as usual. This album kinda came and went in the shuffle of summer releases but is quietly some of Rawse’s best work.
_______________________________________________________________
48. Pivot Gang, You Can’t Sit With Us
Saba delivered one of 2018’s most slept-on releases, so it’s good to see him back in action again so soon. And this time, he’s bringing along friends. Pivot Gang, a collection of Chicago MCs, form like Voltron over diverse mix of sounds, from soul samples to drill beats. Saba, of course, is the star here but his compatriots do their share of the heavy lifting as well. The chemistry is evident – this really sounds like a collection of friends chillin’ in the studio – and the synergy shown here is a precursor for even more greatness to come.
_______________________________________________________________
47. The Amours, Mon Amour
PJ Morton knows talent when he hears it. Sisters Jakiya Ayanna and Shaina Aisha have long served as his backup singers and prove that they’re more than ready to fly on their own. Their debut EP showcases the same energy that makes Morton’s live shows such an event – it’s fresh, funky and incredibly fun. Although it runs just a scant 15 minutes, there’s enough substance here to prove that these ladies are going places.
_______________________________________________________________
46. Czarface/Ghostface, Czarface Meets Ghostface
Just months before the Marvel Cinematic Universe hit us with their Endgame, hip-hop’s own superheroes and villains went toe-to-toe. Czarface Meets Metal Face links industry vets Inspectah Deck, 7L & Esoteric and Ghostface Killah for a lyrical showcase, filled with comic references and incredibly visual bars. It’s a real treat for boom-bap fans and comic enthusiasts alike.
_______________________________________________________________
45. Johnta Austin, Love, Sex & Religion
When fans have been waiting on your solo debut for more than a decade, managing expectations can be pretty tough, to say the least. But when you’re as talented as Johnta Austin, that’s light work. Putting his renowned songwriting skills on full display, Love, Sex & Religion explores its titular themes with keen sensuality. It’s a tight, streamlined listen that proves to be worth the long wait.
_______________________________________________________________
44. Wale, Wow … That’s Crazy
You can tell Wale is a huge R&B fan. His love of soul is what carries Wale to one of his best releases in years. The groovy production does all the heavy lifting while Wale does what he does best – wax poetic about relationships, society and his career in general. While it might not elevate him back to the glory days he enjoyed in years past, it’s a strong reminder that when he’s focused, he’s a force. Plus, the man has an ear for beats.
_______________________________________________________________
43. Lipstick Gypsy, We Were Together, I Forget The Rest
The enigmatic Lipstick Gypsy has been teasing us with promises of new music seemingly FOREVER. This year, we finally got what we’ve been asking for – a 20 minute EP showcasing their alluring brand of soul. And it did not disappoint, boasting some of the absolute best R&B singles of the year. Due to its brevity, We Were Together, I Forget the Rest feels like an appetizer for a meal that’s yet to come. Trust me, if this was a full project, we’d be talking top 10 material. We’re hungry for more.
_______________________________________________________________
42. Wiz Khalifa and Currensy, 2009
Ten years ago, rising rap stars Wiz Khalifa and Currensy teamed for a mixtape that had the Interent going nutz. A decade later, hip-hop (and their careers) are in a much different place. They’re older and wiser, yet still able to recapture that chemistry that boasted back in 2009 on, well, 2009. I’ve been critical of Wiz over the years for his lack of consistency, but he seems to be much more focused with Currensy by his side, with his laid-back flow getting a boost from Spitta’s laser-focus. 2009 doesn’t reinvent rap’s wheel, it’s just two of rap’s luminaries doing what they do best.
_______________________________________________________________
41. Montell Jordan, Masterpeace
STOP. CALLING. MONTELL. A. ONE. HIT. WONDER. He’s been doing this for years. Long one of R&B’s most unsung voices, Montell finally returned after a decade long layoff from R&B for Masterpeace, a breezy, uplifting LP that shows both maturity and mastery of his craft. Jordan deftly tackles love, relationships and faith while maintaining a veteran presence. It’s a great lesson for R&B’s legacy artists – growth can be beautiful.
_______________________________________________________________
40. Westside Gunn, Hitler Wears Hermes 7
The Griselda clique was seemingly everywhere this year (if you want more proof, just keep reading this list). The crew’s most charismatic member kept that momentum rolling with the seventh installment of his Hitler Wears Hermes series, rampaging over soul samples with his off-kilter, high-pitched flow. The beauty of Gunn is his no-frills approach – no attempts to play to trends, no cutesy autotuned vocals and very few lyrical concepts. It’s just an endless barrage of bars. An acquired taste for sure, but definitely satisfying.
_______________________________________________________________
39. Nao Yoshioka, Undeniable
If you frequent this site on the regular, Lord knows I have a lot of complaints about the world in general. But one thing I’ve appreciated with the advent of social media is that our world has gotten more accessible, meaning it’s easier to latch on to emerging voices. Nao Yoshioka is one of those voices. The Japanese soul singer’s third album, The Truth, is what really started to turn heads stateside, and that momentum continues with her fourth release, Undeniable, a warm reminder of the brand of neo-soul that defined the early 2000s. Her sultry, light vocals and uplifting messages are a rare but welcome sight in 2019. For neo-soul fans hungry for a sound that’s becoming increasingly rare, Nao is willing to keep the flame burning.
_______________________________________________________________
38. Injury Reserve, Injury Reserve
The first time I heard Injury Reserve, my immediate reaction was “what IS this?” The Phoenix rap trio certainly has a sound all their own – on the surface it seems a little goofy and disjointed. But once you start settling in, it’s very easy to appreciate the genius behind their work. Their latest is all about pushing the boundaries and blurring the lines – this album almost feels like the anime version of Kanye’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. But the concepts are sound, the lyricism strong and the bizarreness is downright captivating.
_______________________________________________________________
37. Tinashe, Songs for You
In the early years of the decade, Tinashe seemed like a surefire star. Her moody mixtapes predated the “vibey” era that would overtake R&B in the coming years so she seemed ahead of her time. But after label woes left her with an identity crisis, Tinashe took matters into her own hands. Songs for You, her fourth album and first as an indie artist, feels like emancipation. Solid songwriting and ear-catching production finally helps Tinashe recapture the magic of her early years. Tinashe has found herself again, and just in time.
_______________________________________________________________
36. Drake, Care Package
Yes, I’m showing love to a Drake album. I’m as shocked as you are. Well, maybe it’s not all that shocking – despite my criticisms of his recent work, I contend that Drake was an innovative and consistent artist pre-2012. So it’s no surprise that Care Package – a loose collection of rarities mostly from his celebrated Take Care era – resonate so strongly. Care Package isn’t just a fun flashback to days gone by, it’s a trip back to a time when Drake was determined to make you believe he was the best in the game, instead of just taking it all for granted.
_______________________________________________________________
35. Raphael Saadiq, Jimmy Lee
When word dropped that R&B veteran Raphael Saadiq was prepping a new release, fans could barely contain their excitement while looking forward to another breezy, soulful project. Jimmy Lee, though, was nothing like we expected. Named after Saadiq’s brother, who died of heroin overdose after contracting HIV, Jimmy Lee is a dark, sobering look at our nation and all that ails us. It’s a powerful listen, one that speaks directly to our collective consciousness. It might not be the album we expected, but it’s certainly one we needed.
_______________________________________________________________
34. The Game, Born 2 Rap
I tend to side eye any artist who claims their current album is their last. How many rap retirements actually stick? Not many. Well, if this IS Game’s final album, he certainly didn’t go out with a whimper. Born 2 Rap’s ridiculous album cover and bloated 25-track runtime seemed like a disaster in the making, but Game happily proves doubters wrong. Despite the insane runtime, Born 2 Rap is surprisingly cohesive, blending great production with Game’s underrated knack for storytelling. Like its master of ceremonies, Born 2 Rap is loud and indulgent but too talented to be ignored.
_______________________________________________________________
33. Kirk Franklin, Long Live Love
It seems like every time Kirk gathers up his crew for an album we celebrate it in this space. I guess it’s no surprise – he’s been at this for decades and still nowhere near slowing down. Franklin’s always been able to evolve with the times, and Long Live Love is no different. Franklin continues to lean on contemporary sounds and themes while pushing powerful lessons of faith and perseverance. Long Live Love features some of his best work in years and will have no problem finding an audience ready to embrace it.
_______________________________________________________________
32. India.Arie, Worthy
It’s pretty telling that India’s return to R&B landed right in the middle of Black History Month. She’s the woman who taught us the importance of black love LONG before it got trendy. And with the shape of today’s world, she knows she has even more lessons to share. Worthy does just that, returning with her brand of Black Girl Magic laced with acoustic soul. She hasn’t lost a step, and her music is as passionate as ever.
_______________________________________________________________
31. Dreamville, Revenge of the Dreamers III
A couple of decades ago, it wasn’t uncommon for labelmates to come together for a massive, memorable collabo, and Revenge of the Dreamers III is here to bring that feeling back. It’s Ruff Ryders’ Ryde or Die Vol. 1 for a new generation. RotD3 serves as an incredible showcase of the label’s depth, blending an eclectic array of sounds together for one sturdy project. It’s not just a launching pad for a new generation of artists but also solidifies J. Cole as industry leader in his own right.
_______________________________________________________________
30. Ariana Grande, Thank U, Next
Ariana might be the hottest name in pop right now, but I’ve been hot and cold on ol’ girl for years now. Abandoning her original R&B-influenced sound for shrill pop records was best for business, but not best for my ears. But Thank U, Next successfully bridges the gap between her pop and R&B worlds. The atmosphere is dark but her commentaries on personal growth are spot-on. More of this, Ari.
_______________________________________________________________
29. Maxo Kream, Brandon Banks
Houston rapper Maxo Kream is one of those underground voices that seem destined to hit it big in the mainstream. Brandon Banks, his second LP and major-label debut, just might be the launching pad he needs. Maxo checks all the boxes – hard-hitting beats, witty lyrics and a sing-songy flow that allows him to ride most beats with ease. But what elevates Brandon Banks beyond random collection of bangers is the layered introspection about family life. He’s a storyteller through and through and Brandon Banks will have you hanging on every word.
_______________________________________________________________
28. Sampa the Great, The Return
It’s a good chance you missed Sampa the Great’s breakout debut, so allow me to catch you up. The native of Zambia, who was raised in Botswana, and now lives in Melbourne, boasts an LP as diverse as her background. Though it’s brimming with hip-hop and R&B influences, The Return remains firm in its African roots, allowing her to both sing and spit her truths over infectious production. The album’s lengthy and a little too ambitious at times (a common complaint in 2019 for sure) but its authenticity keeps it grounded. You might as well get on the Sampa bandwagon now, she’s next up.
_______________________________________________________________
27. Little Brother, May the Lord Watch
2019 has been filled with surprise reunions, and the return of Little Brother has to be near the top of the list. Though longtime producer 9th Wonder opted not to return, Big Pooh and Phonte lose no stream, linking up with past collaborators like Nottz and Khrysis to revive their classic sound. From the hilarious skits that call back to previous albums to the warm, soulful production that has long been the group’s trademark, May the Lord Watch feels like a heartfelt tribute to their faithful fanbase.
_______________________________________________________________
26. Boogie, Everything’s for Sale
Boogie’s debut LP, Everything’s for Sale, is a no-frills look at life and relationships in 2019. It’s timely, brutally honest and downright sobering in spots. But look deeper and you’ll hear a wisdom that’s far beyond his years. Boogie’s incredibly insightful and his boldness makes this one of the year’s best surprises.
_______________________________________________________________
25. Nicole Bus, Kairos
Lots of young R&B artists have begun to turn to 90s classics for inspiration, with mixed results. That’s not the case for Nicole Bus, who expertly reshapes hit after hit in her own image on Kairos, an impressive effort that bridges the gap between the old and the new. Kairos is a surprisingly cohesive package overall, filled with deep cuts and potential hit singles. It’s a 2019 sleeper hit for sure.
_______________________________________________________________
24. Little Simz, GREY Area
Call this a coming of age tale. Little Simz, the 25-year-old UK phenom, uses GREY Area, her third release, as sort of an open letter as she tries to navigate life’s journey. The live instrumentation breathes new life into her stellar bars, giving her a fresh sound that differentiates her from the norm. Possessing a sharp wit, with even sharper bars, Simz is on the rise – GREY Area feels like just the beginning of an incredible career.
_______________________________________________________________
23. Blood Orange, Angel’s Pulse
I get why British singer/songwriter/producer Dev Hynes might not resonate with all audiences. For listeners who like their music neatly labeled in a box, he defies conventions – simultaneously existing in multiple genres at the same time, like some kind of sonic Dr. Manhattan. Blood Orange’s Angel’s Pulse often feels like fragments of different projects united together under one roof, yet it WORKS. Gospel, pop, R&B and hip-hop are all represented for this journey, one that swings wildly from the 1963 bombing of Birmingham’s 16th Street Church to analyzing the sometimes destructive nature of love. It’s an eclectic listen but it’s the messages embedded in the music that really ties this package together.
_______________________________________________________________
22.Bun B and Statik Selektah, TrillStatik
When Bun B announced that he and producer Statik Selektah were planning to create an album over livestream on Instagram in less than 24 hours, I just kinda smirked, assuming it was yet another weird attempt for social media buzz. How wrong I was to doubt the Trill OG. In just 11 hours, Bun and Statik created not just a great album, but one of the best projects of the year. Boasting an array of guests, TrillStatik is a no-frills release that lovers of lyricism will eat up. It’s proof that there’s no timetable for greatness.
_______________________________________________________________
21. Raheem DeVaughn, The Love Reunion
There’s no such thing as a bad Raheem DeVaughn album, every release is as solid as the last. The Love Reunion not only keeps his undefeated streak alive, it raises the bar. DeVaughn’s brand of baby-making ballads are on full display here, delivered with his usual aching passion. For R&B fans looking for sensual music sans annoying auto-tune or trap beats, The Love Reunion is your hookup.
_______________________________________________________________
20. YBN Cordae, The Lost Boy
How many members of the YBN clique are we up to now? 74? Cuz it sure seems that way. No matter, Cordae still continues to lead the pack and it’s his debut LP, The Lost Boy, that proves why he deserves the spotlight. A deeply introspective release, The Lost Boy gives Cordae plenty of weighty themes – including faith, family and the pursuit of fame – to sink his lyrical fangs into. Always intriguing but never preachy, Cordae expertly balances introspection and entertainment with each track. In a landscape filled with fake-deep bars, Cordae provides the substance the game needs.
_______________________________________________________________
19. Lucky Daye, Painted
David Debrandon Brown was born for this moment. After spending years grinding as a songwriter for R&B legends like Keith Sweat (!) and Mary J. Blige, he finally struck gold with a series of well-received EPs. Those EPs, along with a few new tracks, make up Painted, an impressive debut album from a “new” artist who isn’t really all that new. His smooth takes on modern-day relationships are infections and yet another example that the death of R&B is fake news.
_______________________________________________________________
18. Denzel Curry, Zuu
For those who say I’m biased against young rappers, let me present Denzel Curry a 24-year-old trap star who actually puts effort into his craft. See, that’s all I ask. Zuu hits HARD – Curry attacks every bar like his life depends on it, rapping with ferocity over adrenaline-pounding production. Zuu is proof that trap music doesn’t have to be lazy or dumb. Curry’s way too driven to settle for less.
_______________________________________________________________
17. Griselda, WWCD
Eminem gets a lot of bad press these days – some of it unwarranted, some of it justified. But if it’s one thing that should be universally praised is that he’s unleashed Griselda unto hip-hop and the game hasn’t been the same. The Buffalo collective’s debut LP is as gritty as it gets – most of these tracks don’t even have hooks. But what Westside Gunn, Conway and Benny the Butcher do have is unmatched chemistry and unbridled aggression. While there are more than a few artists dedicated to keeping the sound of 90s hip-hop alive (many of them are on this very list), few do with such style. Gunn’s bizarre wrestling references, Conway’s cocky swagger and Benny’s rib-cracking punchlines make for three very distinct personalities but one very powerful unit. Give Em credit, these guys might just be the future of hip-hop.
_______________________________________________________________
16. Goldlink, Diaspora
Goldlink’s latest seemed to drop out of nowhere, making it one of the most pleasant surprises of 2019. Diaspora is truly an international affair – while his peers ride the “tropical” wave into the ground, Goldlink grabs his passport and reaches further. Diaspora bursts with inspiration from Africa, Latin America, China and more yet still remains rooted in hip-hop. It’s an extremely ambitious move that not only pays off, but stands as some of his best work to date.
_______________________________________________________________
15. Ari Lennox, Shea Butter Baby
It’s been three years since Ari signed with J. Cole’s Dreamville imprint and turned heads with her EP Pho. Shea Butter Baby, her full-length debut, delivers on all that potential. Ari’s strength is her unflinching honesty, using her slinky vocals to brag about strutting around her new apartment (with Dollar Tree wine glasses!) or daydreaming about lost love. Shea Butter Baby may sound raw and unpolished to some ears, but that’s intentional and will only endear her to young fans looking for an artist who doesn’t sugarcoat her emotions. Ari’s still trying to figure life out, which makes this release so relatable.
_______________________________________________________________
14. Skyzoo and Pete Rock, Retropolitan
Who said lyricism has gone out of style? Skyzoo, one of the game’s pre-eminent spitters, has spent decades reminding us that bars are necessary. It’s those very bars that make Retropolitan, his collab with legendary beatsmith Pete Rock, such an intriguing LP. Essentially a love letter to New York and its hip-hop culture, Sky uses Pete’s boom bap soundscapes for a refreshing nostalgia trip. It’s a must for fans of that classic sound.
_______________________________________________________________
13. Lion Babe, Cosmic Wind
You never know what you’re gonna get from a Lion Babe record, and that’s what makes them so great. Cosmic Wind, the duo’s second LP, is just as eclectic as ever, picking up listeners for a ride on their spaceship for a trip across the galaxy. One minute it sounds like they’re in a Wild West saloon, then next they’re in an intergalactic disco. Lion Babe always feels like an adventure and their journey is far from over.
_______________________________________________________________
12. Louis York, American Griots
Put two musical maestros like Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony in the same room together and magic is destined to be made. The duo’s debut album is a musical tour-de-force, spanning genres and pushing boundaries. What Bruno Mars’ 24K Magic did for early ’90s R&B, American Griots does for ’80s sounds – harkening back to the heyday of Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder and other ’80s greats. In an era where moody vibes are all the rage, thank Louis York for making this music thing fun again.
_______________________________________________________________
11. Gang Starr, One of the Best Yet
A year ago, if you told me I’d be reviewing a new Gang Starr album, I’d tell you to stop day drinking and protect your liver. But the reunion decades in the making finally happened this year, and while most posthumous releases feel like the equivalent of a sitcom clip show, that’s not the case here. Thanks to Premier’s careful hand, this FEELS like a legit Gang Starr project. Guru’s bars till pack the necessary punch over Preemo’s dusty boom-bap and the album’s many guest artists come with their game faces on. It’s an incredible comeback story that proves that legends are immortal.
_______________________________________________________________
10. Nas, The Lost Tapes II
The original Lost Tapes concept, a 2002 compilation of leftover tracks circa 1999, served as a bit of redemption when Nas’ credibility was at its lowest. Likewise, Lost Tapes II is this era’s version of damage control – a chance to prove to longtime fans and newbies that Nas is still one of the greatest to touch a mike. Although most of these tracks were recorded in the early years of the 2010s, their themes still resonate today. Whether rallying against those who attack blackness or speaking on his well-documented marital issues, Nas is never at a loss for words. Call it redemption if you want but one thing’s for sure – the king stay the king.
_______________________________________________________________
9. Doja Cat, Hot Pink
Doja Cat may have made a name for herself with her cow cosplay and ridiculous viral hit, but there’s always been a ton of talent behind the jokes and memes. That manifests itself on her sophomore LP Hot Pink, a dazzling array of musical styles that showcases Doja’s incredible diversity. Doja bounces from shimmering roller-skate jams to Janet Jackson-era R&B numbers to rock-fueled guitar rifts, making every single song is a completely different experience. Doja’s unpredictability makes this one of the year’s most unexpected surprises
_______________________________________________________________
8. Anderson Paak, Ventura
Paak must have been listening to y’all. Just months after mixed reviews for his previous project Oxnard (which I thought was pretty solid in its own right), Paak went back to his roots. Ventura ditches the experimentation of Oxnard for a return to Paak’s more soulful sound. With guests ranging from Smokey Robinson to Brandy to Jazmine Sullivan, it’s an all-star affair. The results are strong – a tight, sonic experience that proves that sometimes less is more.
_______________________________________________________________
7. Snoh Aalegra, Ugh Those Feels Again
One of my boys recently likened Snoh Aalegra to this era’s Sade. I don’t think it’s a clean comparison – I mean, there’s really no one on the planet like Sade – but I do see the similarities. Just like Sade, Snoh completely stands out from her peers. The Swedish singer’s silky sophomore album embraces its atmospheric nature but proves to be more than “a mood.” There’s lots of substance as well, thanks to the grandiose production and tight songwriting. While many high-profile R&B releases missed the mark this year, Snoh proved to be a subtle force in the genre. Kinda like Sade, now that I think of it.
_______________________________________________________________
6. Jamila Woods, LEGACY! LEGACY!
Political commentary is nothing new for black music, and it’s definitely seen a resurgence in recent years. But few albums have been able to touch on key issues so expertly as LEGACY! LEGACY! This isn’t your watered down R&B – each song is carefully crafted and richly textured, from the songwriting to Woods’ incredible vocal performances. Even the song’s titles tell a story, saluting an array of pioneers. Several albums this year attempted to capture the joys, pain and pride of black womanhood and misfired. Not this one. Jamila might not get the hype of others, but she definitely deserves your ear.
_______________________________________________________________
5. Rahsaan Patterson, Heroes & Gods
Rahsaan Patterson has spent 35 years as R&B’s best-kept secret. While lesser artists spam our ears with so much material that we become tone deaf, Patterson knows that absence makes the heart grow fonder. Heroes & Gods, his first project in about eight years, is an eclectic yet carefully crafted mix of genres – from soul to go-go to rock – that seamlessly blend together. In an era of microwavable music, it’s the gourmet experiences that prove to be the most satisfying. This was worth the wait.
_______________________________________________________________
4. Benny the Butcher, The Plugs I Met
The Griselda unit has been quietly conquering rap’s underground and it’s only a matter of time before they burst through the surface for a total takeover. Leading that charge is Benny the Butcher’s The Plugs I Met – an EP that does more in seven tracks than your favorite rapper could do in seven years. Intense, gritty bars spread across soulful backdrops make this feel like the resurrection of 90s boom-bap and Benny’s overwhelming ferocity is a sight to behold. These Griselda boys are coming to conquer.
_______________________________________________________________
3. Lizzo, Cuz I Love You
In January 2019, most of y’all barely knew the name Lizzo. By December 2019, most of you can’t ESCAPE the name Lizzo. Controversies aside, I’m just here for the music. Don’t be mistaken, despite her seemingly instant success, Lizzo has been toiling away for years. But Cuz I Love You’s dominance of 2019 proves timing is everything. Culturally speaking, the album’s themes of self-love and empowerment couldn’t have landed at a more relevant time. Pair that with an infectious energy and impressive vocals and you’ve got an album that is as fun as it is poignant. Love her if you like, hate her if you must, but one thing’s clear – 2019 belonged to her.
_______________________________________________________________
2. Rapsody, Eve
Rapsody wasn’t the first artist this year to dedicate her album to black womanhood – Jamila Woods beat her by a few months – but that doesn’t speak to the quality of the project. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, Eve is by far 2019’s greatest concept album. With song titles that pay homage to pioneers like Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama and Whoopi Goldberg, Eve is a captivating look at the life and times of the black woman in America. It’s all brought to life by Rapsody’s spellbinding wordplay and 9th Wonder’s impressive array of soundscapes. Eve isn’t just a powerful passion project, it’s an album that will soon cement Rapsody as a legend in her own right.
_______________________________________________________________
1. Freddie Gibbs and Madlib, Bandana
Freddie Gibbs and producer Madlib are no strangers to each other, but there’s something extra magical about their follow-up collaboration to Pinata. Everything is taken to the next level on Bandana – the beats hit a little bit harder, the guests bring a little more fire and Gangsta Gibbs is obsessed with proving that he’s one of the best in the world. Bandana excels on every level, proving that Gibbs should be mentioned among rap’s elite. When Gibbs called this the album of the year, he shortchanged himself. Not only is it the best of the year, it’s one of the best rap releases of the decade.
What did we miss? Share your favorites of 2019 below.
Leave a comment