Six months ago I would never think I’d make this statement, but in December 2025 I stand by it:

2025 is probably my favorite year in music since 2012.

The year started out OK – a few very strong R&B offerings and a select number of underground rap gems to offset the mainstream dreck that was clogging our earbuds. But it was the second half of 2025 that triggered the turnaround – improbable comebacks from hip-hop groups and artists we had long written off, veterans freshening up their sound with new direction, producers finding their stride again. Everything was clicking.

And then we got the Legend Has It Series.

The Nas-helmed initiative through Mass Appeal Records had one goal – to elevate hip-hop’s icons. Much like how Nas’ series with Hit-Boy rejuvenated his career, Legend Has It gave both veterans and fallen soldiers another shot at glory. The result were some of the best – and most important – albums of the year.

If you check the headlines, 2025 allegedly was a dire year for Black music, largely due to all hip-hop songs falling of Billboard’s Top 40 charts for the first time in 35 years. But our list is here to remind you that the charts don’t determine the culture. All the great artists featured here do.

In 2025 I listened to 218 albums. Let’s break down the 50 best.

Because we had so many great albums that didn’t make the main list, please take a look at our mega-list of honorable mentions. All of them deserve your ear as well.

Maybe I’m being overly optimistic, but 2025 feels like a turning point. R&B is regaining its voice. Hip-hop may not be making an impression on charts, but a new generation of fans are realizing that there’s more to the culture than cash registers. And veterans are finally getting the respect they deserve.

2025, you did all right for yourself.

Honorable mentions:

Q Parker, Evolution of Romance Vol. 1

FKA Twigs, Eusexua

Rome Streetz and Conductor Williams, Trainspotting

Doja Cat, Vie

Iyla, Weeping Angel

The Weeknd, Hurry Up Tomorrow

Banks, Off With Her Head

Jane Handcock, It’s Me, Not You

GIGI, Waves of It

Termanology and Bronze Nazareth, Things I Seen

2 Chainz, Larry June and The Alchemist, Life is Beautiful

Boldy James and Chuck Strangers, Token of Appreciation

Tyler the Creator, Don’t Tap the Glass

Tamar Braxton, Heartbreak Retrograde

Mick Jenkins and EMIL, A Murder of Crows

Annie Tracy, Scared of Heights

Earl Sweatshirt, Live Laugh Love

Estelle, Stay Alta

Navy Blue, The Sword and The Soaring

Lloyd Banks, AON 3: Despite My Mistakes

Open Mike Eagle, Neighborhood Gods Unlimited

Kyle Dion, Soular

Westside Gunn, Heels Have Eyes 3

Key Glock, Glockaveli

Evidence, Unlearning Vol. 2

Giveon, Beloved

Benny the Butcher, Summertime Butch 2

Kindred the Family Soul, Grandlife

CRIMEAPPLE and DJ Skizz, Rose Gold

Stalley, Gamla Kyrkogatan

Nicholas Craven and Boldy James, Late to My Own Funeral

Benny the Butcher, Excelsior

Queen Naija, 30

Coco Jones, Why Not More?

Alessa Cara, Love & Hyperbole

RJ Payne and Drega33, Triangle d’Or

Amber Mark, Pretty Idea

Currensy and Harry Fraud, Never Catch Us

Brother Ali, Satisfied Soul

Oddisee, En Route

Gunna, The Last Wun

Ransom and Conductor Williams, The Uncomfortable Truth

Larry June and Cardo Got Wings, Until Night Comes

Kool Keith, Karpenters

ASTN, Archive 001

Daniel Caesar, Son of Spergy

Che Noir and The Other Guys, No Validation

Ledisi, For Dinah

Bootsy Collins, Album of the Year #1 Funkateer

Bun B and Cory Mo, Way Mo Trill

Tems, Love is a Kingdom

50. Jae Skeese, 40 Hours

Jae Skeese has been on an incredible roll over the past couple of years. Abolished Uncertainties grabbed me by the throat in 2023 and he hasn’t let up on the pressure since. 40 Hours is his latest in a string of wins, as he conceptually tries to find a work/life balance as he pursues his rap dreams. Skeese’s knack for engrossing storytelling makes this approach even more relatable – it’s not just empowering for the listener, but you want Jae to win too. As long as he continues to drop projects this strong, I have no doubt that he will.

49. Wiz Khalifa, Kush + Orange Juice 2

Most of you know that I’m pretty skeptical of sequel albums – trying to recapture the energy of a previously acclaimed work is often a fool’s errand. But in this case, Taylor Gang pulled it off. Wiz’s projects often tend to be hit or miss, but no one can deny the quality – and impact – of the original Kush & OJ mixtape. The sequel is a worthy follow up – sweeping, hazy production, great guests and Wiz’s laid back flow is as soothing as ever. It’s not just a worthy sequel, it’s affirmation that Wiz can still be a major player in 2025.

48. Jackie Hill Perry, Blameless

We don’t talk enough about Jackie Hill Perry in this space, so Blameless is a great place to start. For more than a decade, she’s spoken truth to power, and Blameless could be her most powerful testimony to date. Utilizing her trademark introspection, Perry dives deep on issues from self-acceptance to forgiveness with impactful bars and emotional performances. It’s a beautifully honest record that provides hope in a world often devoid of it.

47. Smif N Wessun, Infinity

Tek N Steele are among hip-hop’s most unsung heroes. Their 1995 intro still stands as one of the best debut albums in rap history. And though their names are too often left off those lil’ lists y’all like sharing on the social media, Infinity proves these vets are still war ready. Infinity is a powerful tribute to their boom-bap heritage – gritty and forceful as their heyday but presented through a more mature lens. They may be wiser but their hunger hasn’t subsided – the duo sound especially energized over the more soulful production. True to the name of this project, their passion is infinite.

46. Redveil, Sankofa

DMV native Redveil has been an Internet darling for a minute now, and while I thought his previous releases were solid, Sankofa just hits different. It’s the moment when a talent artist finally taps into his latent potential. Sankofa feels like an album crafted by an artist well beyond Redveil’s 21 years. He weaves thoughtful narratives in the most dynamic of ways – sometimes he lets the bars tell the story, other times he croons through his emotions. Sankofa refuses to be confined in a box and instead evolves with each track, much like its creator. Redveil is finding himself before our eyes.

45. Saigon and Buckwild, Paint the World Black

Saigon’s career has been too often defined by what COULD have been. We need to talk less about hypotheticals and more about reality, and reality shows us that Sai is quietly re-establishing himself as a force in the industry. After turning heads with Fredro on last year’s The Jordan Era, Saigon now teams with Buckwild for Paint the World Black, a deep dive into a world wrapped in turmoil. Saigon raps with urgency over classic boom bap, delivering harsh truths about our culture while demanding change and justice. Sai’s forceful flow and Buckwild’s classic production make Paint the World Black a timely listen.

44. Durand Jones & The Indications, Flowers

Durand and the Indications are the gatekeepers of soul and Flowers is no exception. R&B has suffered from an identity crisis over the past decade, but not these guys. Flowers is a throwback to R&B’s most soulful roots, providing lush arrangements and expressive vocals that just feel right. The instrumentation is warm, Druand’s vocals are alluring and the groove is inescapable. If you’re missing those classic R&B sounds,  Durand and the Indications’ creativity is in full bloom.

43. Ledisi, The Crown

If Soul In Stereo is doing a recap of the year’s best music, it’s a safe bet that a Ledisi project is making the cut. It’s both a credit to her consistency and top-shelf quality. In my eyes, The Crown outshines many of her more recent projects, thanks to its diversity of sound and its overarching theme that puts the spotlight on Black womanhood. Ledisi blends R&B, gospel, jazz and even pop elements to weave a regal narrative of modern-day matriarchy. The Crown’s message is clear – queens deserve to hold their heads up high.

42. D Smoke, Wake Up Supa

D Smoke is just too good to be ignored. After three great releases (with 2020’s Black Habits being downright stellar), Wake Up Supa serves as Smoke’s Death Row debut, and his wastes no time making an impact. Wake Up Supa is a sobering and sincere tribute to family, specifically the impact of his mother, all told through impeccable lyricism. On the surface, the record may seem to cycle through too many genres – hip-hop, R&B, spoken word and more – but it paints the complex story of a man who rose from teacher to reality show star to leading man on a legendary rap label. D Smoke has earned this moment.

41. Domo Genesis and Graymatter, Scram!

Is Scram! Domo Genesis’ best work to date? If the answer it’s an outright yet, it’s mighty, mighty close. Domo’s paring with Graymatter is brilliant – Graymatter cooks up dusty, soulful backdrops (often with creative sampling) that fit so well with Domo’s trademark stream-of-consciousness flows. But don’t mistake these raps as mere rambling. Domo balances wit with introspection, making this much more than meandering barfest. There’s a keen method to Domo’s madness, and united with Graymatter’s incredible production, Domo reaches a new level of creativity.

40. Boy Soda, Soulstar

Australian singer-songwriter has been making the rounds since the pre-pandemic days, but 2025 is his year to soar. Soulstar’s strength is its live instrumentation; it often sets a warm, inviting atmosphere for Boy Soda’s endearing storytelling, which swings from obsessive love to crippling grief. He wears his emotions on his sleeve, making every song a dive into his psyche. In a genre that too often treasures toughness over vulnerability, Boy Soda is a throwback to an era that values real emotion.

39. Westside Gunn, Heels Have Eyes 2

There are three things Westside Gunn loves – obscure wrestling references, random adlibs (AYE YO) and dropping 17 projects a year. Thanks to his overactive release schedule, it’s easy for Westside’s LPs/EPs/mixtapes/whatevers to run together over the course of 12 months, but his Heels Have Eyes series has really risen to the occasion. Heels Have Eyes 2 is the best of 2025’s bunch, filled with the gritty bars, insane non-sequesters and soulful production that made him a star. Westside certainly doesn’t reinvent the wheel here – it’s the usual debauchery you know and love – but his sequencing, production, and even his focus, seems tighter than ever. I’d rank Heels Have Eyes 2 among his best releases, and if you’re familiar with his gigantic catalog, you know that covers a LOT of ground.

38. Ann Nesby, ANNiversary

We love a comeback story! Ann Nesby has been wowing R&B fans since Sounds of Blackness injected the power of positivity into our veins back in the 90s. ANNiversary (awesome title BTW) is her first project in over a decade and she hasn’t lost a step. Standing as a celebration of both her gospel and soul roots, Nesby effortlessly uses her powerhouse vocals to uplift and inspire. Her messages of love and hope are not just relevant, they’re timeless.  

37. Leela James, 2BHonest

There’s just something about Leela James’ vocals – distinct, robust, vulnerable, yet totally unique. No one on the planet sounds like Leela, and that’s what makes every project stand out. 2BHonest may only be six tracks long, but each song packs a wallop, boasting her trademark brand of classic soul and modern R&B. True to its name, each song boasts a realness that makes it so easy to connect its themes. Leela’s magnificent vocals will bring you back for more every time.

36. Partyof2, Amerika’s Next Top Party

I love it when a plan comes together. Formerly members of a trio, rapper-producers SWIM and Jadagrace have activated their powers Wonder Twin style to form Partyof2, an eclectic blend of nearly every genre of Black music you can think of. Amerika’s Next Top Party can be weird and off-kilter, but it’s also a blast and absolutely brilliant. One minute, they’re assaulting your speakers with fiery rap bars built for diss records, the next you’re being serenaded with the smoothest melodies this side of a 90s R&B mixtape. It’s an unpredictable listening experience, and that’s what makes it so intriguing. Partyof2 has a style that’s all their own, but their talent makes even the most bizarre concepts work. They really are the life of the party.

35. Che Noir and 7xvethegenius, Desired Crowns

I dare you to find a duo of emcees as ferocious as Che Noir and 7xvethegenius – and I’m talking male or female. Desired Crowns unite two of hip-hop’s most underrated lyricists to achieve one common goal – to demand respect. The duo relentlessly unleash bars over somber production, reflecting on their ambitions and their undying hunger for more. Iron truly sharpens iron as neither woman wants to be outshined. They raise the bar, and we turn up the volume. Desired Crowns? Believe me, the sequel will be called Acquired Crowns.

34. McKinley Dixon, Magic, Alive!

Magic, Alive! is one of the best kept secrets of 2025, so allow me to spill the beans. McKinley, a fellow Va native (who also shares my birthday, oddly enough), has spent the last decade dropping thought-provoking releases that blend elements of jazz, hip-hop and spoken word. Magic, Alive! is his most accessible release to date, and easily his best. Dixon’s social commentary is downright poetic as he tackles grief, legacy and the Black experience. The unpredictable production is also a plus – the blending of genres and use of live instrumentation make every track an adventure. There’s not too many albums out there like Magic, Alive!, and that’s what makes it such a special experience.

33. Sault, 10

Being a Sault fan is a frustrating yet fulfilling experience. Albums drop out of nowhere, touring information flashing in and out in obscure videos – it’s like they have the Riddler on their PR team! But once we do get those mysterious albums and performances, they always deliver. 10, which is actually their 12^th studio album (see what I mean by the confusion?), may stand as one of their best outings to date. Cleo Sol’s elegant vocals and Inflo’s vintage R&B production blend to provide a satisfying, soulful experience. The lyrics are sparse but potent, making every syllable count as Cleo drives her messages of empowerment. Sault makes you work for their music, but it’s always rewarding.

32. Black Milk & Fat Ray, Food From the Gods

Black Milk just might be the most underrated hip-hop producer in the past 20 years. Hopefully, his latest collabo with Fat Ray will be enough to open eyes. Food from the Gods is chicken soup for the hip-hop soul – well, more like raw meat, because Fat Ray sounds famished. Black Milk’s production is as rich and unpredictable as ever, giving Fat Ray space to pelt listeners with his unrelenting bars. If you’ve been missing that raw, unrelenting hip-hop sound, pull up a chair. Black Milk and Ray are here to feed the streets.

31. Nick Grant, I Took It Personal

When Nick Grant dropped Dreamin’ Out Loud in 2018, I proclaimed him as among the next set of contenders who could vie for rap’s throne in the 2020s. While a few of his subsequent releases derailed that momentum, I think Nick’s finally back on track with I Took It Personal. Foregoing some of the more experimental tracks from recent LPs, Nick leans into jazzy and boom-bap themes on this record, and it’s a much better fit for his style. He has also refined his focus, forgoing mainstream appeal to hone in on lyrical consistency. The shift suits him well, and Nick seems ready to ascend to the next level.

30. NAO, Jupiter

We all know that R&B has faced a rocky road in the past two decades, which is why I’m always happy to celebrate the artists who kept us afloat during the toughest of time. East London’s NAO is one of those quiet MVPs who held us down when the genre’s biggest stars were off cosplaying as rappers. Her streak of consistent R&B continues with Jupiter, which is as futuristic and spacey as its name implies. NAO’s signature falsetto is a treat over production that invokes a journey through the Milky Way as she tackles love, loss and self-discovery. When R&B times get tough, you can always depend on NAO to deliver.

29. Ray Vaughn, The Good The Bad The Dollar Menu

Ray Vaughn has had quite the year, hasn’t he? With the rap world still hungry for competition after the Great Drake Massacre of 2024, Ray has had several high-profile sparring sessions with Joey Bada$$ – and I’m all for it. Rap has always been fueled by competition, after all, and Ray is built for battle. But he’s much more than a battle rapper, he’s a conceptually competent MC as well, as The Good The Bad The Dollar Menu proves. It’s a very perceptive take on poverty, wellness and family, with lots of sharp bars and hilarious commentary to drive the points home. Ray Vaughn is loaded with charisma, and he’s not afraid to jab at anyone – whether its rival rappers or society in general – who stands in his way. This project is the first sign of great things to come for Ray.

28. Dave East and Ransom, The Final Call

If you want bars, I got bars for you! Well, specifically, Dave East and Ransom are here to deliver. The Final Call is a no-frills spitter session, plain and simple. Ransom’s philosophical flows pair perfectly with Dave’s gritty bravado, and the soulful backdrops serve as the best soundscapes for their storytelling. Simply put, it’s pure, uncut hip-hop, a masterclass in MCing. If you like your hip-hop straight, no chaser, you won’t find a better album this year.

27. Wale, Everything is a Lot

If you know Soul In Stereo, you know I’ve been hot and cold on Wale over the years – marveling at his highs but frustrated by his inconsistencies. But just a few moments into the opening track “Conundrum” – seconds after I recognized that Keith Sweat/Kut Klose “Get Up On It” sample – I knew I was locked in for the long haul. Everything is a Lot is Wale at his best – using his poetic approach to examine the harsh realities of identity and love. His vulnerability makes every bar more impactful. And the samples? Catching influences of artists like Maxwell and Goapele is just part of the fun.  Everything is a Lot gives us the Wale we’ve been missing – the thoughtful MC who wears his heart on his sleeve and has an impeccable taste in R&B.

26. Conway the Machine, You Can’t Kill God With Bullets

I know this is a bit of a last-minute entry on the list, but don’t accuse me of recency bias: You Can’t Kill God With Bullets may be Conway’s most personal – and most important – album to date. The Machine may be known for his cold heart and menacing bars, but Conway instead lowers his guard and invites us inside his soul. You Can’t Kill God With Bullets is a portrait of a man who has grappled with depression and devastating loss, yet still lifts his head high. I hesitate to say this is softer side of Conway, though, as his delivery is as venomous as ever, especially when backed by strong production by the likes of Conductor Williams and others. Some fans may be put off by the heavy personal themes but this is Conway’s story to tell. He’s survived life’s onslaught and deserves bragging rights.

25. Big KRIT, Dedicated to Cadalee Biarritz

Soemtimes, you just wanna ride out to good music, and Krizzle is always willing to deliver. Dedicated to Cadalee Biarritz isn’t just a love letter to car culture, it’s a throwback to the sub-shattering production and Southern flair that first captivated audiences. The beats steal the show but KRIT isn’t afraid to sprinkle in introspection and commentary to guide you on those long rides. Simply put, this thing KNOCKS and is one of his most fun releases in ages.

24. Lecrae, Reconstruction

Lecrae gained a good bit of notoriety after Kendrick Lamar shouted him out on his track “Watch the Party Die.” Lecrae responded with “Die for the Party,” which raised even more eyebrows. But for those of us who have been riding with Lecrae since the days of Sunday school, we weren’t surprised. We always knew he was one of rap’s best. Reconstruction, Lecrae’s first LP in nearly a half-decade, finds him as hungry as ever as he waxes poetic over trap, gospel and soulful production. Lecrae’s honestly has long been his hallmark, and every bar feels personal as he frames his messaging around themes of rebuilding. Every Lecrae release feels like an event, but the urgent messages of Reconstruction makes it stand even taller. It’s one of his best releases to date.

23. JoJo, NGL

The evolution of JoJo has been incredible to experience – from cutesy teen star to angsty grown woman. It’s that authenticity that make her most recent projects so powerful, and that continues with her EP NGL. Heartbreak, healing, and personal empowerment are the messages of the day, but it’s the piercing songwriting that make those themes stick. Lines like “I’m selfish with my time now/Is it okay if I cry now?” linger with you long after the track ends. Though the themes can be heavy, the production – swaying between pop and soul – keeps the atmosphere from being too depressing. JoJo continues to remind her audience that there’s power in owning your truths.

22. Little Simz, Lotus

It feels like I’m repeating myself, but I’m going to keep saying it until it sticks – Little Simz is one of the greatest artists we have right now. Yeah, she can spit, but as Lotus proves, Simz has an incredible talent for painting emotional portraits. Simz is no stranger to introspective songs, but Lotus is her deepest dive to date. Lotus almost feels like a self-therapy session as Simz bares her soul and faces her traumas head-on. Grief, burnout, family strife and more are explored, but this isn’t a plea for pity, it’s a guide to overcome those demons. Lotus isn’t always an easy listen, but it’s a necessary one, and proof that Simz’s artistic growth is boundless.

21. De La Soul, Cabin in the Sky

Only De La Soul can break and warm your heart at the same time. Their journey has been filled with peaks and valleys – nearly all of their classic albums were blocked from streaming services until just two years ago. Mere weeks before their hits finally were unlocked for a new generation to enjoy, Trugoy the Dove shockingly passed away. That makes Cabin in the Sky a conundrum – an album that attempts to re-establish one of rap’s most pioneering acts, but without a core member of the team. But thanks to great production, a dazzling array of guest hosts, and a ongoing narrative of overcoming grief, De La achieves greatness. The album blends classic boom-bap with the whimsical, lighthearted elements that defined their earliest work. The album is bookended with tributes to Trugoy – one that rips out your heart, and another that heals it. De La Soul has always been the conscience of hip-hop, and Cabin in the Sky proves their legacy is unbreakable.

20. Olivia Dean, The Art of Loving

Long before “Man I Need” was all over your Tik Tok feed, Olivia Dean was an international star. Now that she’s getting long-overdue love stateside, more and more are being introduced to her brilliant brand of soul-pop, and I’m here for it. Sometimes retro, sometimes modern, always intriguing, The Art of Loving is a beautiful mix of deep lyricism that effortlessly plays off its soulful production. It’s a stirring exploration of love, from its power to its imperfections. Best kept secret no more, her love lessons are on display for the world to see.

19. Hit-Boy and The Alchemist, Goldfish

Yes, two of the best producers of the year just put out one of the best rap albums of the year. There’s literally nothing Hit-Boy and Alchemist can’t do. Goldfish obviously has stellar production – with those two titans behind the board, you should expect nothing less – but it’s the storytelling and lyricism that will likely exceed your expectations. In a year filled with hidden gems, Goldfish refuses to be outshined.

18. Eric Benet, The Co-Star

Last year we got the appetizer, this year Eric serves up a full-course meal. Though it was just five tracks long, Benet’s Duet’s EP was one of the stronger R&B offerings of 2024. The Co-Star fleshes out the concept and there’s even more to love. The concept is simple – Eric is joined by some of the best female vocalists in the game, and everyone makes magic. The album’s strength is its diversity – of course we get the expected bedroom burners, but there’s also hip-hop inspired efforts, reflections on Southern culture, beautiful Latin-infused performances and high-octane empowerment anthems. The Co-Star is an extremely fulfilling experience, and proof that it takes two (sometimes even three!) to make a thing go right.

17. Jenevieve, Crysalis

LA singer Jenevieve is no stranger to R&B but Crysalis just might be the transformational project that evolves her career. Crysalis is a dreamy, emotionally resonate release that effortlessly weaves through soul, pop and electronic production. Every track is so light and inviting, but its the songwriting that drives home its powerful themes of growth and reflection. It’s a project that urges you to press play on a frosty night, wrapping you in its warm grooves. Don’t allow Crysalis to get lost in the shuffle; Jenevieve deserves a spot on your R&B playlists.

16. Che Noir, The Color Chocolate 2

There are too many female MC debates on these apps that constantly ignore the name of Che Noir. We would never make that mistake here. In a year where Che seemed to drop projects almost quarterly, The Color Chocolate 2 is the sweetest of them all. Though she’s only been in the game about half a decade, Che has the poise and presence of a 20-year veteran. Her commanding delivery and frank social commentary make The Color Chocolate 2 stand out from its peers, layering must-hear truths over gritty and soulful production. While other hide behind gimmicks and image, Che gives you herpure, uncut reality. Che is the realest in the room.

15. Rochelle Jordan, Through the Wall

I hate saying “I told you so…” actually, y’all know I LOVE saying that. And since way back in 2011 with the release of her ROJO mixtape, I’ve been telling y’all that Rochelle Jordan has the chops to transform R&B. 2021’s Play With the Changes gave us deep house music before Drake and Beyonce decided to get your backs off the wall, and now Through the Wall looks to cement her as a modern day dance queen. Jordan is utterly confident as she bombards us with the most stylish and infectious club cuts you’ll hear all year, accented with strong, reflective writing. It’s impossible to sit still while listening to her music, but there’s always moments of introspection to give each cut a deeper meaning. Rochelle is not a follower – she sees musical trends before they arrive and carves her own path. Catch up and keep moving.

14. Jon B., Waiting on You

Read our review here

They say good things come to those who wait, so Jon B’s fans finally got the blessing they’ve deserved. Waiting on You, Jon’s first release in well over a decade arrives on a R&B landscape that’s somewhat light on worthy contenders. That means all eyes are on him, and he seizes the moment. Waiting on You is a powerful return to form that honors his ‘90s R&B roots while incorporating modern production polish to upgrade his sound. As always, the writing is sound and several of the vocal performances are downright stunning. It’s refreshing to see a veteran artist deliver exactly what his fans want, with a few fresh twists here and there. Waiting on You is Jon’s love letter to them.

13. Saba and No I.D., From the Private Collections of Saba and No I.D.

Saba is one of those many artists I often say are just one major project away from breaking out. Paring him with fellow Chicagoan and top-tier producer No ID might be the secret ingredient that unlocks his destiny. From the Private Collections of Saba and No I.D. may have originally been envisioned as a mixtape, but what resulted is so much more. This album is a beautiful blend of introspective lyricism and masterful production. Saba is a honest and emotional storyteller, and No I.D.’s beats do well to elevate those themes. Private Collections feels like two rap generations meeting in the middle, and the result is one of the best hip-hop releases of 2025.

12. JID, God Does Like Ugly

JID might just be hip-hop Twitter’s favorite rapper, and that’s saying a lot for an app that usually can’t agree on what day of the week it is. That seemingly universal love isn’t unfounded – JID is a MONSTER and seems to be gaining momentum with every release. On his fourth album, named after a turn of phrase from his grandmother, JID explores life’s imperfections and his quest for resilience, fueled by his trademark machine-gun flow. Production is strong, but even stronger is JID’s hunger, who attacks each verse as a man with nothing to lose, and everything to gain. That infectious energy has made JID one of the rap’s most reliable new faces – a fact everyone can agree on.

11. Alex Isley, When

Read our review here

Alex Isley was literally born to do this. R&B royalty is her birthright. Although her previous projects were solid, I was a bit worried that she may fall into the trap of similar artists who failed to evolve their sound. Thankfully, When bucks that trend. The EP may only features six songs, but it’s arguably her most daring and dynamic release to date. Sometimes she’s sweet and sensual, other times she’s confident and cocky but her vocals remain pristine and her songwriting retains its poetic edge. When is a glimpse of an artist willing to evolve both her career and R&B as a whole.

10. Chance the Rapper, Star Line

2025 has given us many improbable comebacks, but among the most surprising – and fulfilling – has been the return of Chance the Rapper. Six years ago he seemed poised to be rap’s next big star, before backlash from his major-label debut seemingly derailed him for good (sidenote: The album wasn’t THAT bad, but that’s a convo for another day).  Half a decade later, Chance refocused and regrouped with Star Line, a deeply personal record that dives deep into both fatherhood and faith. He returns to the hip-hop and gospel-tinged sounds that raised his profile way back then, but adds a more mature outlook on life. His themes of identity, for instance, resonate strongly in today’s political climate. While I wouldn’t say Star Line introduces us to a “new” Chance, it’s certainly a wiser Chance, one who is finally ready to capitalize on all that potential.

9. Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist, Alfredo 2

Read our review here

Yep, second time proves to be the charm. Five years ago, Freddie Gibbs found insane chemistry on the first Alfredo installment. Round two finds the pair with darker undertones yet even better chemistry than before. As expected from rap’s premier beatmaker, Alchemist’s production is top-tier, but it would mean nothing if Gibbs didn’t consistently bring the goods. Here, he balances his menace and vulnerability, pessimism with hilarious wit. Y’all will probably scream “recency bias,” but I think Alfredo 2 is one of the rare sequel projects that tops its predecessor. Call it The Alfredo Strikes Back – umm, better yet, call it another win for this dynamic duo.

8. Lady Wray, Cover Girl

Read our review here

If you know Soul In Stereo, you know my affinity for Nicole Wray – specifically her 1998 debut album, which still remains an all-timer in my personal collection. Nearly 30 years later, Lady Wray is far removed from her rookie year, and I’m here for the growth. Cover Girl her latest venture into throwback soul, a record with production that cracks and hisses like your grandfather’s old vinyls but with songwriting that reflects modern experiences. Lady Wray marries vintage soul and gospel to provide a warm, uplifting journey through faith and relationships. From the live instrumentation to the soaring arrangements, it feels like Lady Wray brings the Easter Sunday choir to your doorstep to sing you through your troubles. It’s another massive step forward for an artist who remains in constant evolution.

7. Raekwon, The Emperor’s New Clothes

2025 is the year of redemption for so many rap legends, so it’s only right for the Chef to get a seat at the table as well. Raekwon’s MCing has never been in question but, thanks in part to the Nas-helmed Legend Has it Series, The Emperor’s New Clothes gets two big boosts – rejuvenated production and revitalized energy. As its name suggests, this project feels absolutely regal, thanks to the elegant soundscapes. Raekwon spits with supreme confidence, reflecting on his elder statesmen status while gleefully reminding listeners that few have ever shared the rarified air he breathes. The Emperor’s New Clothes is a project fit for a king, and one of Rae’s best releases in years.

6. Ghostface Killah, Supreme Clientele 2

Read our review here

Earlier on this very list we talked about the gift and curse (shout out to Jay) of sequel albums. Artists are required to transport themselves back to the zenith of their careers, and either match or top their best work – often years after the fact. Father Time don’t work like that. But then again, Father Time never stepped in the ring with the Wallabee Champ. As part of Nas’ Legend Has It series, Ghostface Killah’s Supreme Clientele 2 defies expectations by recapturing the raucous energy of its predecessor, but through a more mature lens. His storytelling chops remain sharp and his penchant for soulful production elevates the experience. Who would have thought we’d get Rose Royce and Toto samples in 2025? Supreme Clientele 2 allows Ghostface to prove that age may be a number, but Wu-Tang is forever.

5. Nas and DJ Premier, Light-Years

Read our review here

Literary nerds, stand up: In the renouned novel Moby Dick, the insane Captain Ahab spent his life chasing what others assumed he could never reach, the titular Moby Dick. Well, over the past 30 years, the long-alleged album between Nas and DJ Premier was my personal White Whale, that quest I’d never achieve. But in the year our Lord 2025, Christmas came 13 days early. Light-Years is the grand finale of Nas’ Legend Has It series – instead of spotlighting a legend,  this time he’s showcasing hip-hop culture as a whole. From the art of graffiti, to the legacy of painstakingly creating beats in the analog era, to the impact of women in hip-hop, Nas elevates the most unappreciated aspects of our culture while Preemo revisits his heyday and crafts the most sinister beats he can muster. It’s a departure from Nas’ renowned series with Hit-Boy, and that by design. He’s not trying to cozy up to the current generation, this is a hip-hop history lesson from the legends who lived it. The expectations for this album were impossibly high – unreachable, in fact – but Nas and Preemo are still able to make dreams come true. The chase was worth it in the end.

4. Durand Bernarr, Bloom

It’s finally Durand Bernarr’s time, and I couldn’t be more excited. Durand has spent nearly two decades climbing to the top of R&B’s Mt. Olympus, fueled by critically acclaimed live performances, strong albums and an eye opening Tiny Desk set. Bloom might be the final push to finally get him to the top. Durand’s unapologetic approach to his craft, his love life, his well, everything, is what makes Bloom such a success. He refuses limit his talent, stretching his vocals from flirtatious falsettos to soul-stirring power at a moment’s notice. He laces songs with funk, R&B, gospel and electronic textures, making each track a unique experience. And his writing – from the unbridled passion of “No Business” to the vulnerability of “Home Alone” constantly goes deeper than surface level reflections of love. Bloom is as somber as it is eccentric, heavy as it is hilarious – a perfect reflection of the contradictions that make all of us human, and make Durand such a superstar. It’s the top R&B record of 2025.

3. Blu and August Fanon, Forty

“Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.” That quote jumps to mind when listening to Blu’s stellar new release Forty, a heartwarming ode to maturity and legacy. Blu is no stranger to lyrical introspection – it’s always been his calling card – but his bars have even more weight than usual as he reflects on family and his place in hip-hop’s history. It’s all elevated by August Fanon’s textured, jazz-heavy production – melancholy but reflective. Though Blu positions himself as a seasoned MC, it’s his wisdom and experience that continues to drive his career to new heights. Let’s be real – hip-hop culture has often punished those who dare to mature. Forty defies that, proving that there is no age restriction on talent – and it’s why Forty currently stands as the best rap project of the year so far.

2. Mobb Deep, Infinite

I’ll talk about the Alchemist in a minute, but I think we have to salute Nas and Mass Appeal’s Legend Has It series for using their own brand of Black magic to resurrect so many careers In 2025. Few have made me happier than the improbable return of Mobb Deep. Production from Alchemist and Havoc, along with unreleased vocals from the late, great Queensbridge kingpin Prodigy, create an album that, at times, rivals some of the best work from rap’s most Infamous duo. Most impressively is how seamlessly P’s verses are incorporated next to Havoc’s – this feels more like a lost album recorded in 1999 than a posthumous record stitched together decades later. QB’s Finest truly are immortal.

1. Clipse, Let God Sort Em Out

Read our review here

2025 was the year of the improbable comeback. But if you told me that 2025 would be the year that Malice would reunite with Pusha T and reform Clipse, I probably wouldn’t believe you. But if you told me that if Clipse somehow reunited that they’d probably have the best album of the year, THAT I would believe. They’re just that good. Let God Sort Em Out shows that the brothers Thornton haven’t lost an ounce of their chemistry or lyrical acumen, but it also proves that they’re so much more than coke rappers. They’re grieving sons mourning the loss of their parents. They’re deeply spiritual men constantly trying to atone for past sins. They’re the OGs trying to warn the next generation not to move as they moved. And yes, they’re also two of the most gifted lyricists we’ve ever heard, and they’re not afraid to remind you. Backed by impressive production by Pharrell,  Let God Sort Em Out fulfills its mission – a declarative statement that real rap never left the building. Pusha and Malice have every right to be cocky – they’ve survived a game that by all means should have taken them down years ago. They’re still here, still standing, and still better than everyone who dares to compete. They’re the rap kingpins of 2025.

That’s the list, but I’m sure you have more. Share your favorite projects of 2025 below!