Album Reviews

Tyler, The Creator “CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST: The Estate Sale” Review

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In Tyler, The Creator’s video for the song “Sam Is Dead,” released in March of 2012, the 32-year-old donned a military uniform and executed his musical alter-egos. At the very end, presumably Tron Cat, Wolf Haley, and of course Sam end up in a ditch. These characters represent his early work: rebellious, unfiltered, and with angst that many can’t imagine him displaying today. About a year after this release came his studio album Wolf, which still dealt with these characters’ narratives and development. However, that album marked the first time that Tyler would significantly redefine his identity as an artist. As a young kid just getting into his world, I never would’ve imagined that “Sam Is Dead” would remain so relevant to Tyler Okonma’s work today. But The Estate Sale proves just that. 

Not only does it reiterate his refined musical prowess, but it’s a fresh example of him reclaiming his unbounded identity and skill in ways that his transitions from album to album can’t summarize. Before getting into the meat of the music, it’s important to acknowledge what The Estate Sale is. Per the Hawthorne, Los Angeles native, they’re “leftovers” from his 2021 critical hit CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST. He expressed on social media that it’s the first time he showed what he left off of a core album. To put it bluntly, the songs sounded just too damn good. Sure, one could argue that curation is what got Tyler to his career peaks in the first place. Still, CMIYGL is his travel album, and these tracks represent exploration and growth in a similar way. 

But how is The Estate Sale different from its parent project? The first thing that listeners could catch is a West Coast-inspired sound that more unabashedly honors Tyler, The Creator’s heroes. YG and Vince Staples give a strong Cali bounce to the breezy “BOYFRIEND, GIRLFRIEND” and the boisterous “STUNTMAN,” respectively. Both beats take inspiration from the work of Pharrell, whether for the former’s funky percussion and melodies or the latter’s bustling 2000s-era rap homage that feels like an unearthed Neptunes beat (Skateboard P actually helped produce this one). Regardless of his influences, T makes each sound his own. A beautiful bridge on “BOYFRIEND, GIRLFRIEND,” for example, makes for one of the expansion’s standout moments. Conversely, the eerie tones and heavy bass on “STUNTMAN” harken back to his early production with a modern sheen.

Other tracks on The Estate Sale, however, feel more characteristic of Tyler’s brand of vibrant and layered hip-hop. “DOGTOOTH,” the expansion’s first single, matches wondrous piano chords with wailing synth melodies, booming kicks, and crisp percs. “WHAT A DAY,” “HEAVEN TO ME,” and “SORRY NOT SORRY” are sample-heavy seas for Tyler, The Creator’s introspective verses to coast over with ease. Finally on the production side, “WHARF TALK” benefits from the high-pitched vocal delivery of albums like CHERRY BOMB and IGOR. He applies those skills with the infectious and soulful melodies of Scum F**k Flower Boy for a dreamy sonic pallet. With a snappy and smooth A$AP Rocky feature, the charming cut emphasizes one of Tyler’s thematic north stars: love.

However, Tyler, The Creator already established the versatility and progressive nature of his production throughout his past albums. As such, the instrumental pallets here definitely feel like an expansion. Hardcore fans could probably link each track to another in his discography. While many might see this as a slight towards The Estate Sale, it’s one due to definition rather than execution. It is just a set of bonus tracks, after all. If you haven’t liked Tyler’s work up until this point, chances are this won’t win you over. Regardless, that doesn’t make these beats any less rich in tone, progression, or passion. There’s something for everyone on this tracklist, from the most skeptical old heads to the recent explorers of the former Odd Future leader’s musical variety.

In terms of The Estate Sale’s lyrical content, this is where the heart of the album truly lies. Whereas his skills as an artist manifested quite vulnerably after Flower Boy, T’s done a good job of detailing his emotions while maintaining a sense of privacy as a celebrity. CMIYGL is his reflection on success and recognition; The Estate Sale is a reevaluation of what parts of that journey really matter to him. On “STUNTMAN,” he teaches other rappers how to stunt through confidence in their abilities and hard work towards perfecting them. Of course, he does a lot of material stunting on the song, but other tracks illuminate the lines in between. On that note, it seems that what Tyler, The Creator is most proud of on The Estate Sale is his artistry, attention to detail, and his financial and personal freedom. 

For every expensive brand drop, there are lines on songs like “WHAT A DAY” that show where his true gratitude lies. “So many white diamonds, yеah, I got jungle fever / But thеy didn’t raise me, so shout out Black women.” He thanks his friends for their advice, his family for their support, and his fans on the short intro “EVERYTHING MUST GO” for all his accolades. His focus is on individualism, creative liberty, and being able to support those around him. On “HEAVEN TO ME,” he reflects on three versions of heaven: the one he’s living, the one he wants to live in the future, and the one he lived as a teenager entering the industry. Along the way, he held true to what he wanted in each moment, while also allowing himself to change how he achieved his biggest dreams.

That gratitude even shows up sonically through his surprising (which is, at this point, unsurprising) choice to include two tracks from other producers. Madlib’s gorgeous sample flip on “WHAT A DAY” is a previously unreleased beat that a teenage Tyler skated home to. Meanwhile, “HEAVEN TO ME” boasts production from Kanye West, a progenitor in T’s artistic lineage. The instrumental’s tenderness and Tyler’s appreciative delivery makes for one of the sweetest tracks in his whole discography. What’s more is that he’s one of the few artists to wear his influences on his sleeve as stylishly and uniquely as the influences in question. Even the demo quality mix on “BOYFRIEND, GIRLFRIEND” and the boyish vocal performance on “WHARF TALK” harken back to some of his best work. Reflecting on his evolution is almost corny at this point. Tyler proves he’s much more than the sum of his many parts.

In the much-discussed video for “SORRY NOT SORRY,” Tyler kills his alter-egos again. This time, it’s as a shirtless and presumably raw version of himself. His seven personas, shown simultaneously, represent his seven albums, stating that each era is relevant and still within him. Over drama-tinged and grand production, he apologizes for all the things he did to succeed. Some apologies, like those to his mother and romantic partners, come across as sincere. Others, like those aimed at critics, are laden with unapologetic attitude. Throughout the track, he emphasizes that he can’t fully regret his choices, and selfish isn’t the word, either. By the end, all that’s left is Tyler Okonma, and like that, another era fell upon us. As he closes The Estate Sale, he stands as his biggest cheerleader. Through seven excellent and unique tracks, he inspires generations before and after him to cheer for themselves, too.

Chlöe “In Pieces” Album Review

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Chlöe is the other half of the Chloe x Halle musical duo. In recent years, however, we’ve seen her do incredible things as an individual. These have finally culminated in a debut studio album. The original plan was to name the album after herself, but that changed as Chlöe continued to develop the record. In January, the “Treat Me” singer announced the album with a “Heart on My Sleeve” preview.

Chlöe closed out March with the release of her anticipated debut album, In Pieces. The singer has promised the project for some time, and upon delivery, Chlöe was praised for her official introduction. It was challenging, but she partnered with several noteworthy artists to help round out the record. Future, Chris Brown, and Missy Elliott added their voices to In Pieces. It seemed as if Chlöe wanted to stand alone for most of the tracklisting, proving she could create captivating music as a hitmaking solo artist. We’re taking an in-depth look at In Pieces and highlighting the album’s best moments.

Chlöe Without Halle

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 04: (L-R) Halle Bailey and Chloe Bailey attend the Pre-GRAMMY Gala & GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Julie Greenwald and Craig Kallman on February 04, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

It has become a default trend for collective stars to turn to desperate measures to seek balanced respect. It seems for Chloe x Halle, it is tempting to assume the venture into independence is perhaps each sister carving out their own lane. Halle landed a lead role in the 2023 live adaptation of The Little Mermaid, and the filming took place abroad. This would turn out to be their lengthiest period apart. Consequently, Chlöe found solace in exploring creativity on a personal plain.

The harmonies are not half as intact, and we miss that on In Pieces without Halle. We should, however, not undermine the thrill that springs from some of these quality collaborations. For instance, Future in “Cheatback” was definitely the “Honest” rapper in his natural habitat. Chris Brown, on the other hand, equally in his comfort zone, gave rise to mixed feelings. A chosen few of their fans loved the collaboration, but Brown’s past was a hot topic. Halle’s absence conspicuously made Chlöe seem like a nuance of herself. This was foreseeable, considering they only created separate Instagram accounts a little over two years ago.

Chlöe’s In Pieces: Overall Appraisal

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 03: Chlöe performs onstage during MusiCares Persons of the Year Honoring Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson at Los Angeles Convention Center on February 03, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

In aggregating In Pieces ratings, Metacritic arrived at a score of 64/100—not bad for a debut. Most tracks run under three minutes—talent and wit beget brevity. Chlöe is following the steps of her Industry Aunt, Beyoncé, in so many ways. Is it the religious allusions? The cheating trauma? The unapologetic female sensuality? The self-inclination? All these are precious stones to craftsmanship and even peculiarly more so to these two women. A lady who enjoys being called “baby Beyoncé” is outrightly one to watch out for in things of sexuality.

Chlöe knows how to make an entrance, and she did so on In Pieces‘s first track, “Someone’s Calling (Chlöe).” She sampled Louis Armstrong’s 1952 jazz classic, “Chloe (Song of the Swamp).” What a name play. It almost gave us this Tom-and-Jerry-Christmas-Edition-background-music-vibe. We loved it, but not as much as the sampler herself—it’s her granddaddy’s little souvenir lullaby. Breakups suck, and Chlöe is here to remind us with “Pray It Away.” Through the personal feel of the album, we figure out her 20s have not been entirely kind. Prayer aside, she also dances it away in “Body Do.” Tracks like “Told Ya” and “Cheatback” showcase the character arc. After mourning in prayer, she makes bold decisions in the later tracks.

Scrapped Singles & Forthcoming Tour

Chlöe purposefully released four singles between September 2021 and October 2022. She then had in mind Chlöe, or as we now know it, In Pieces. Fans were astonished to add “Have Mercy,” “Treat Me,” “Surprise,” and “For the Night” to their playlists. She eventually scrapped them, announcing the decision upon releasing “Pray It Away,” the new lead single. Every severe critic would flash an inquisitive eye at this forepassed development. Why did Chlöe change her mind? A theory about “Have Mercy” could be the avoidance of premature redundancy.

Another step Chlöe would take has everything to do with her much-anticipated In Pieces Tour. Her tour will start at the Riviera Theatre in Chicago on April 11. The run will conclude at The Novo in Los Angeles come May 3. Chlöe is just getting started.

Jermaine Dupri & Curren$y: “For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1” Album Review

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Curren$y has been a mainstay in the Southern rap scene for over a decade. Covering the moody landscape of Southern rap, he’s known for his clockwork output and swaggering verses. The New Orleans-born artist has been collaborating with underground artists throughout his career. Some of his most notable collaborations have been with The Alchemist, Freddie Gibbs, and Wiz Khalifa. He remains a household name in the Southern rap scene with a fifteen-year career.

As for The Alchemist, the two released Continuance back in 2022, their third studio release as a duo. Polishing their past sound, many held that Continuance was one of the better rap projects in 2022. With For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1, Curren$y is wisely sticking with iconic producer collaborations. This time, it’s with music legend Jermaine Dupri. The So So Def icon has produced hit records for artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher, Ludacris, Jay-Z, and LL Cool J.

Curren$y’s collaboration with Dupri has been years in the making. About teaming up with him, he said, “I had my mind made up even since the ‘Jump’ remix by Kris Kross and SuperCat that I wanted to work with him. I’d crossed paths with the legend from making moves with Lil Wayne, but it was clearly not my place to introduce myself. I had to play my part. The universe is the universe though, and it makes things right when it’s the right time.” In retrospect, it’s good to see the dedicated MC get his mainstream shine.

The EP Blends Southern R&B & Trap Styles

At its core, For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1 is an ode to Southern rap. In an interview with Rap Radar, Dupri stated, “Part 1 is a real southern record that the south really needs.” The producer and Curren$y team up for 22 minutes of braggadocios verses and colossal beats. A true summer-time jam, the booming 808s are perfect for a warm weather drive. While much of For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1 shoots for a trap-heavy sound on the likes of “Off the Lot,” you also have your cuts such as “Fortune 500,” which edge towards more of a lo-fi quality. Dupri showcases his ability to produce in various soundscapes, solidifying why he remains one of the most in-demand producers in hip-hop.

Curren$y spends much of the project flexing his wealth. Driving around in a fresh Cadillac, he doesn’t shy away from hyping himself up with bars such as “My diamonds are brighter than yours” or “The quarterly projections lookin’ like a straight blessing” on “Never Enough.” However, he isn’t surface-level in his description of wealth. As he puts it, it took years of hard work and suffering. He references his impoverished circumstances and his mother’s tireless work ethic throughout the record, stating, “Mama worked like a slave, that’s I work so damn hard when it come to getting paid” on “Never Enough.” His pen game is laid back yet hyper-focused from start to finish. For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1 is a celebratory ode to where he’s currently at in life.

Curren$y Recruits Heavy Hitters

Additionally, For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1 features fellow Southern MC counterparts 2 Chainz and T.I. They pop up on “Never Fall Off” and “Off the Lot,” two of the better cuts off of the EP. Surprisingly, it’s the first time T.I. has appeared on one of Dupri’s beats. Curren$y is one of those MCs that warrants more respect in hip-hop circles than he does in the mainstream. It explains why he’s consistently able to garner big-name features on his projects. Founding Jet Life Recordings back in 2011, he also references his wide portfolio throughout the EP.

As implied by the record title, there’s more to come from the Southern duo. In a quote from Curren$y’s Instagram, he stated, “We have a zillion songs recorded at this point, but we have selected 7 to form an EP and drop at midnight.” A successful first installment in the duo’s series, it will be exciting to see how they build on the sound of For Motivational Use Only, Vol.1 for future records. The duo hinted at a heavier feature list featuring the likes of Nas for the next volume.

In fact, it wouldn’t be surprising if Volume 2 of this series grows on the grandeur soundscapes of the first volume. More time spent in the studio between the two Southern counterparts should enable them to continue to pick at the margins of their respective potentials. With Curren$y existing in the pocket of psychedelic jazz beats over the past few years, For Motivational Use Only, Vol. 1 signifies a bold departure from his usual comfort zone.

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Mariah Carey’s Albums, Ranked

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Mariah Carey is one of the most successful singer/songwriters ever. With a career spanning multiple decades, Mariah has 15 studio albums. She has 19 number-1 hits on Billboard and has sold over 200 million records globally. Besides having several mega-hits, Mariah Carey is known as an album artist. This means fans can enjoy her full albums instead of only the singles on the radio. 

Throughout her storied career, Mariah Carey has been seen as the blueprint for many artists. In fact, Rolling Stone even included her in the top 5 of their greatest singers of all time list. Of course, that list has been questioned by many, but there is no denying that Mariah Carey has one of the most important voices in music. What makes her singing so unique are the high notes and her voice’s breathy nature. She has worked with several other greats, including Whitney Houston, Boys II Men, and, most recently, Brandy in 2022. 

Mariah Carey’s musical catalog is unmatched. In many ways, she is the epitome of what it means to be an R&B/Pop singer. Luckily, Mariah is still making great music. To some fans, her newer albums are even better than her older and highest-selling bodies of work. 

Here are Mariah Carey’s albums, ranked. This list does not include soundtracks or extended plays.

12. Me. I Am Mariah…The Elusive Chanteuse (2005)

Last on the list ranking Mariah Carey’s albums is her 2015 release. Me. I am Mariah… The Elusive Chanteuse is a sporadic group of songs. Though most fans consider it a solid album, it’s a bit all over the place. Fans got their first taste of the album through its lead single, #Beautiful, and yes, the hashtag is actually in the song title. Though a moderate hit, many complain that the featured artist on the song, Miguel, has more to do on the track than Mariah. Standouts from the album are Cry. and Faded. 

11. Music Box (1998)

Music Box is actually one of Mariah Carey’s biggest commercial albums. However, this album doesn’t entirely feel like a Mariah album. It’s a bit subdued in comparison to her better works. Still, it has some iconic songs. Most fans would know Hero and Dreamlover from this one. Mariah released it in 1998, and it’s her third album. 

10. E=MC2 (2008)

Mariah Carey’s 2008 album, E=MC2, had a lot of pressure to be a hit. It followed her big comeback just two years prior, where she racked up tons of awards and proved to the world she still had it. Mariah released Touch My Body as the lead single, and it became her 18th number 1 hit. Though the album has some memorable songs besides the lead single, it’s just not super memorable. However, check out Side Effects, Love Story, Last Kiss, and I’m That Chick. 

9. Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel (2009)

Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel is one of Mariah’s best albums. However, it’s simply not as known as some of her biggest. Released in 2009, the upbeat song Obsessed was chosen as the lead single. Famously, it’s also a bit of a diss track to Eminem. Unfortunately, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel didn’t have much staying power. Despite this, it’s a fan favorite. You should listen to Candy Bling, Standing O, Ribbon, It’s A Wrap, and her remake of I Want To Know What Love Is. 

8. Rainbow (1999)

Rainbow is Mariah Carey’s last album of the 1990s. It’s one of her most famous albums and includes one of her biggest hits, Heartbreaker. Many fans also regard the album for songs such as After Tonight and Petals. However, Rainbow was also her first album in a while to not reach number 1. It debuted at number 2 with over 300,000 units sold. 

7. Emotions (1991)

Mariah Carey’s Emotions is only her second album, but it’s also one of her best. Released in 1991, it’s an excellent display of Mariah Carey’s voice. With this album, Mariah Carey had much more creative control and could deviate from the usual 1990s musical formula. She released the title track as the lead single. 

6. Caution (2018)

Released in 2018, Caution is Mariah Carey’s latest album. Fortunately, it’s also one of her best. Most importantly, it showed Mariah’s ability to adapt to a new sound while also including elements of her music fans have always loved. It may not have been a blockbuster seller, but it’s one of the most important R&B albums of recent years. 

5. Mariah Carey (1990)

Mariah Carey’s self-titled debut album came in 1990. It has a strong 1980s sound, which you can hear in the hit Vision of Love. As many fans know, Vision of Love is one of Mariah Carey’s most recognizable songs. Notably, it’s considered one of the most difficult songs to sing. Mariah won Best New Artist at the Grammys as well as Best Female Pop Vocalist during the album cycle. 

4. Charmbracelet (2002)

Though considered one of Mariah’s best albums, Charmbraclet is often overlooked. Released in 2002, it was her first album since both the failure of her movie Glitter and her public breakdown. The first single, Through The Rain, is a fan favorite, but it wasn’t a big hit. The album sold 241,000 units in its first week. You should also check out The One. 

3. The Emancipation of Mimi (2005)

The Emancipation of MiMi is the big comeback we previously mentioned. Released in 2005, the first taste was the lead single It’s Like That. However, things really ramped up with We Belong Together. Not only was it Mariah’s 16th number-one hit, but it remained in the top spot for 14 non-consecutive weeks. Billboard even named it the song of the decade. The entire album is iconic and can be listened to from top to bottom. 

2. Daydream (1996)

Mariah’s fifth album came out in 1996. It features three of her biggest hits and is considered a masterpiece. Many fans say this is an album most artists would work their entire careers to produce. She received several Grammy nominations for the album but was completely snubbed the night of the ceremony. Still, it was one of the biggest albums of that year. 

1. Butterfly (1997)

Butterfly is Mariah Carey’s best album. Most people feel this way because it’s super personal and shows the singer truly experimenting with her songwriting. The album’s most famous songs are Honey, Butterfly, and The Roof. Mariah even released a 25th-anniversary version in 2022. One of the highlights of the rerelease was Mariah Carey and Brandy working together on the new version of The Roof.

Beyonce’s Albums, Ranked

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To label Beyonce as a musical artist would be a disservice to her widespread influence and reputation. From making movies to spearheading clothing lines, the billionaire’s global reach makes her one of the most influential humans on the planet, period. She got her start as a member of Destiny’s Child, an R&B group that would take over the charts during the late 90s.

However, the group act wouldn’t last for much longer. With Beyonce (along with other group members) looking to pursue their respective solo careers, the group was no longer together by the early 2000s. She would release her debut record, ‘Dangerously In Love,’ in 2003. The first of (so far) seven studio albums, she spent no time growing into her role as a solo act. Her solo career began with the iconic “Crazy In Love,” featuring her future husband Jay-Z.

In particular, Beyonce has been as a contemporary or jumping out for fellow Black American creatives. By centering her creative pursuits into the within the context of HBCU culture, she’s delivered tectonic performances in a variety of creative lanes. Now 41 years old, some wondered if she would ever release solo music again. She puts those doubts to rest in 2022, releasing Grammy’s Dance Album of the Year, ‘Renaissance.’ We have a feeling we’ll have to re-update this list in the near future, as she’s hinted at ‘Renaissance’ being the outset of a trilogy.

Today, we’re ranking Beyonce’s seven solo studio albums from worst to best. Let us know where you agree or disagree down below!

8. Dangerously In Love

Beyonce spent no time attempting to cocoon herself from her superstardom on her debut studio album, ‘Dangerously In Love.’ Releasing in 2003, the once-broke Houston-er had officially arrived. Introducing us with open horns on “Crazy In Love,” it would end up being her most straightforward R&B album. Still trying to find her distinctive sound, it’s one of her weaker full-length efforts/

Beyonce is unapologetically self-loving and self-indulgent throughout the record. Smartly throwing her best tracks at the outset of ‘Dangerously In Love,’ intoxicating sounds blend with hypnotic guitar riffs. Jay-Z’s fingerprints are all over this record, having two features and five writing credits. However, the record is undeniably top-heavy. We’re treated to numerous bland, mid-tempo R&B cuts where her voice struggles to carry the length of the song. In addition, her commentary reads as relatively surface-level in comparison to future projects.

7. I AM… Sasha Fierce

One of Beyonce’s most commercially successful records, ‘I AM… Sasha Fierce’ is a pop-star record through and through. Lost in the world of flashing lights and plastic smiles, the 2-disk record is a collection of tracks looking to be hits. The results are a mixed bag, as tracks often read as ingenuine impersonations of prevailing trends rather than originally thought-out pieces of work.

With iconic pop anthems such as “Halo” and “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It),” the album raveled in it’s 5 Grammys at the 52nd anniversary of the rewards. ‘I AM… Sasha Fierce’ balances two different personalities. The first half embodies her humble tendencies, as reflected by the easy-going nature of many of the tracks. The second half, her “Sasha Fierce” phase, replaces emotive ballads for powerful and assertive pop anthems. Describing the alter-ego in an interview, she stated “Usually, when I hear the crowd, when I hear the chords, Sasha Fierce appears in my posture and the way I speak – everything is different.”

The contrasting personalities make sense. For being known as one of the greatest on-stage performers of all-time, she dually known for her soft personality when the limelight isn’t on her. While there’s certainly some filler here, the record reads as an entertaining listen that gives the audience a further peak into her emotional state.

6. B’Day

On Beyonce’s sophomore studio album, she discards the leisured soul facade of ‘Dangerously In Love’ in favor of a sound that is far more in her wheelhouse. Ditching Amy Winehouse impersonations for funky Neptunes-style drum patterns, upbeat disco inflections and carnal guitar riffs fill ‘B’Day.’ Steadfastly outperforming her debut, the record cemented her as a talented solo-artist, one that remains one of her best projects to this day.

Similar to ‘Dangerously In Love,’ Jay-Z’s influence is all over the record. From writing to feature credits, the two’s sonic chemistry had taken a noticeable leap from 2003 to 2006. Running at a tight-knit 11 tracks, the overarching experience is packaged in a far more consumable manner in contrast to her labored debut. Beyonce sounds more reliable as a vocalist, such as on the thrillingly sharp “Ring the Alarm.”

In addition, Beyonce has taken a mature leap as a songwriter. More comedic and self-determining, the only criticism that can be levied against ‘B’Day’ is its lack of pop hits that usually populate her albums. ‘B’Day’ sounds like an album of third or fourth singles, as she partially ditches her classic pop persona. The efforts would pay dividends for her down the road, but yield occasional mixed results in her sophomore effort.

5. Beyonce (Self-Titled)

Beyonce’s fifth studio album, the surprise Christmas-time release would pan out to be her most sonically experimental project to date. Released in 2014, she explores unembellished stylistic tropes in an album that re-invigorates her image as a hard-hitting Houston-er. Continuing her string of records aided with visual counterparts, there’s certainly a cinematic feel to the chaotic song structures and slapdash interludes on ‘Beyonce.’

Featuring a crew of 44 writers and producers, Beyonce uses her influence to skew towards niche soundscapes. Taking notes from Solange (her sister), dark and lush instrumentals run through tracks such as “Flawless” and “Partition.” Getting rid of the restraints on her vocal range, her elastic vocals sound as if they should be performed at a late-night karaoke bar. Additionally, the self-titled project isn’t short of chart-topping hits. “Drunk In Love” sees her dart between different vocal cadences, while “Partition” features menacing synths and afrobeat drums.

Beyonce defines her personal sense of womanhood and sexuality on the record. Infatuating with herself, ‘Beyonce’ is an expression complex self-love. Amidst a culture that romanticizes “hook-up culture” or exclusive monogamy, she opts to romanticize her marriage. From Pharell Williams to Frank Ocean, she recruits numerous heavy hitters to curate what was her best project to date.

4. 4

Similar to ‘Lemonade, ‘4’ is a relationship-oriented album. The record deals with the realities of committing to a marriage. However, she isn’t viewing that commitment in a dogmatic, negative light. Beyonce is accepting of the calamitous nature of marriage, stating “Still love the way he walks / Still love the way he rock them black diamonds in that chain.” Full of warm synths and pristine vocals, her drawn-out falsettos contain hints of Prince or Mary J Blige. However, something about the depth of Beyonce’s voice keeps it uniquely her.

Featuring production chops from some of household creatives in the industry, Beyonce isn’t remised to skip out on creating trademark hits. Take the Kanye West-assisted “Party,” which combines a perfect feature from elusive MC Andre 3000. “Love on Top” laces together crisp drums and a sunny chorus, blending the styles of Stevie Wonder or Whitney Houston. “Rather Die Young” is a stark interruption on the soul feel of ‘4,’ opting for a cinematic Broadway feel. With Empire of the Sun leader Luke Steele working on the track, this record certainly isn’t short of star names in the background.

While ‘4’ misses out on the cohesiveness of a select few of future projects, it’s unparalleled ambition and high-reaching vocal performance makes it an essential project in Beyonce’s discography.

3. Renaissance

Beyonce seventh full-length album, ‘Renaissance’ is an hour-long celebration of 80s to 90s era dance music. In the past, the Houston-born artist had been known for walking a tightrope between dance and pop styles. Her most recent release sees her fully dive into the former, releasing one of her most cohesive records to date.

Catching on to what music fans were missing most post-pandemic, Beyonce takes her audience back onto a 1am dancefloor. From “Break My Soul” to “Cuff It,” there’s numerous generation-defining hits on the album. However, it’s not a straight-forward dance album with surface-level lyricism. She dives into the many nuances of club culture, ranging from insecurity to perfection. There’s an overarching message to “be yourself” and “enjoy the moment” on ‘Renaissance,’ which is ultimately intended to be a feel-good record.

Running laps around many of her contemporaries, Beyonce took the dance trend and revitalized it into her own form of self-expression. An ode to LGBTQ dance culture, ‘Renaissance’ forgoes to usual interludes or despondent ballads from her past records. Instead, she just wants her audience to dance.

2. Homecoming: The Live Album

Beyonce’s ‘Homecoming’ is a stunning live experience that snapshots her at her creative summit. Shining a light on African-American artistic experience, her sixth solo album released three years after her career-defining ‘Lemonade.’ Considering ‘Homecoming’s is a live album with audio stripped directly from her Coachella performance, it’s lack of messiness or randomness is astounding. Incorporating crowd interactions and impromptu rants, it’s yet another cinematic addition to her catalogue.

Beyonce’s Coachella performance re-defined the accepted belief of what a live performance could. Featuring two-hundred performers, the stage moved in unison amidst orchestral song structures. A divine expression of choreographed black expression, the experience further cemented Beyonce’s reputation as a top tier performing artist.

The career-spanning performance contains track which ranged from ‘Lemonade’ all the way back to Destiny’s Child. She even performs some deep-cuts, such as “I Been On,” which was solely released on Soundcloud. It’s not a feature-heavy project, as the focus solely spans to Beyonce. Grunting and shrieking on ambient horn-filled tracks, ‘Homecoming’ manages to revive her catalogue in a unique manner.

1. Lemonade

Yet another cinematic experience, ‘Lemonade’ is her best record to date. While Beyonce performs with her heart on her sleeve and giving every ounce of her energy to the act, her private life had meticulously been a grey area for her worldwide audience. Her sixth studio album shatters just about any and all theories about what that life may look like, as she’s more vulnerable than ever about her day-to-day shortcomings.

While ‘Lemonade’ eventually morphs into a happy ending, the journey to that mental space is a volatile one. From referencing “smelling another woman’s scent” on Jay-Z to her “workaholic to fill a void” mentality, it’s her most honest record to date. In fact, there’s a point where the listener is almost positive that she’s announcing her divorce from Jay-Z, as she claims that he’s not able to handle her personality.

Employing the likes of Jack White and James Blake, ‘Lemonade’ was her most meticulously produced record to date. Her crisp vocals cut through the ethereal production on “Love Drought,” while the Diplo-produced “Sorry” features an earworm hook and wonky synth patterns. In addition, she explores her musical capabilities more than ever on ‘Lemonade.’ Darting from EDM undertones to an emotive piano ballad, the songs do the exact opposite of blending in with each other. Instead, each track symbolizes an uncharted chapter in Beyonce’s story.

Top 6 Mario’s Albums, Ranked

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Mario is a highly valued R&B artist with not only great quality vocals but a fantastic catalog of albums that fans just need to get to know. To celebrate the legacy in R&B history, we’ve put together a top 6 Mario album ranked list. Ever since his debut album, “Mario” his fame and progression as a modern artist has seen no limits. The album named after his own title reached number 9 on the Billboard 200, while Just a Friend scored number 5. With music ever-expanding, streaming, and evolving, here are a few albums that we appreciate by Mario and why they stand out to us. Along with the reasons we love to listen, we’ve included some stats as well, such as when they were released and the immediate response to the drop.

1 – Mario

This breakout album with the artist as the same name is a debut released in 2002. Producers fro the album are Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Scott Storch, and Tim & Bob. The album features multiple upbeat tracks that keep the tempo high. The individual song, Just a Friend, hit number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying this album’s place in the hearts of many.

2 – Turning Point

Turning Point truly was a turning point in Mario’s career as an artist. As an album, Turning Point brought new points to light about Mario’s capabilities, including his thematic change from generic to more personal themes in R&B. The album’s lead song, “Let Me Love You” grew into massive popularity upon release, setting Mario up to be one of the most promising rising stars at the time. The song ended up reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100, nominating him for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. What makes Turning Point so great is that it explores Mario’s impressive range. It also takes what everyone loved about the first album and improved upon it in the second, pleasing both old and brand-new fans at the time.

3 – Go

As the third studio album in Mario’s history, Go had a lot to work up to. Not only had the previous two albums been stellar hits, but they featured a lot of producer and artist talent along the way. The album Go was released in 2007, being produced by a handful of people. These included Stargate, Timbaland, and Polow da Don.

One of the standout features of Go is the improved versatility that Mario displays throughout the album. For example, Cryin Out for Me is a mid-tempo song. It features not only a good hook but a versatile expression of Mario’s great vocal range. The song hit the crowds successfully, scoring number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also reached the top 10 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

4 – D.N.A.

DNA is the fourth album Mario released into the world in 2009. It takes a shift away from the work that Mario chronologically had accomplished so far, taking a more somber turn into the introspective. This was both in lyric and theme. The producers varied this time too, including names like Jim Jonsin, Bangladesh, and Rico Love.

The production skills of Jim Jonsin proved to be helpful during the creation of the album since Mario’s smooth vocals could only translate through a well-written song. The rockstar track of the album was undoubtedly Break Up, which featured Sean Garrett and Gucci Mane.

5 – Dancing Shadows

Dancing Shadows is an album that took everybody by surprise. After a little while of absence, the album Dancing Shadows represents Mario’s return to the stage and fans with a fresh take and hot new songs. By the time Mario had returned from almost ten years away, he had to come back with something that fit the current climate of R&B times. And clear that climate he did, with progression into more modern conventions, such as a moody sound and aggressive effects on vocals. The aspects of what made Mario great didn’t stop though. All 11 tracks in the album showcase his ability as not only a singer, but as a songwriter. The album also features collaborations with producers like Jake Gosling, Prince Charlez, and Pham, who help to bring a modern edge to the classic R&B sound.

6 – Never 2 Late

“Never 2 Late” is the fifth studio album by American R&B singer, Mario Barrett, released in 2014. The album features collaborations with a variety of producers and songwriters, including Polow da Don, Rico Love, and Troy Taylor.The album showcases Mario’s vocal prowess and maturity as an artist, and it features a mix of classic R&B sounds and modern production techniques.

The album’s standout tracks include “Fireball,” a catchy and upbeat song that features a driving beat and infectious hook, as well as “Fatal Distraction,” a slower ballad that showcases Mario’s emotional depth and vulnerability.Another standout track is “Somebody Else,” which features a guest appearance by Nicki Minaj and explores the theme of heartbreak and moving on from a relationship. The song’s soaring chorus and Minaj’s fiery verse combine to create a powerful and memorable track.

Overall, what makes “Never 2 Late” great is the way that it showcases Mario’s continued growth and evolution as an artist. The album finds him exploring new sounds and themes, while still staying true to the classic R&B sound that made him a fan favorite. Mario’s vocals are as strong as ever, and he brings a sense of honesty and sincerity to each track that makes the album feel personal and relatable.

Mario EP 2019

“Mario” is a self-titled EP released by American R&B singer Mario Barrett in 2019. The EP is a short, six-track project that showcases Mario’s soulful vocals and songwriting abilities.

The EP opens with the upbeat and catchy track “Drowning.” The track features a bouncy rhythm and a catchy chorus that showcases Mario’s signature falsetto. The song was released as the lead single from the EP and was well-received by fans and critics alike.

Another standout track on the EP is “Gold Plates.” It features a more stripped-down sound and highlights Mario’s smooth and emotive vocals. The song explores themes of self-love and self-acceptance, and its raw and honest lyrics add to its emotional impact.

One of the unique aspects of the EP is its mix of genres and influences. For example, the track “Goes Like That” features a Latin-inspired rhythm and showcases Mario’s ability to sing in Spanish, while “Closer” has a more electronic sound and features distorted vocals and glitchy beats.

The self-titled debut album “Mario” released in 2002 was a major label release on J Records, whereas the 2019 self-titled EP “Mario” was an independent release. Apart from the difference in their release strategies, the two albums also differ in several other aspects.

What’s the difference between Mario 2002 and Mario 2021?

In terms of their musical styles, the two albums are quite different. The 2002 album “Mario” is a more traditional R&B album with a mix of ballads and uptempo tracks that feature a lot of live instrumentation. The album was produced by a variety of well-known producers, including Scott Storch, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, and Tim & Bob, and featured collaborations with artists such as Jadakiss and Ginuwine.

In contrast, the 2019 EP “Mario” is a more modern and eclectic R&B project. It incorporates elements of electronic music and hip-hop. The EP was produced by a mix of established and up-and-coming producers. These include Jack Knight and Jake Gosling, and it features a more stripped-down sound that emphasizes Mario’s vocals and songwriting.

Another difference between the two albums is their length. The 2002 album “Mario” is a full-length album that features 13 tracks. The 2019 EP “Mario” is a shorter project with only six tracks.

DJ Khaled’s Albums, Ranked

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If you’re a fan of hip-hop music, then you’ve undoubtedly heard of DJ Khaled. Currently, he is one of the best DJs/producers, and most of his albums are the best in the world.  DJ Khaled has been popular for a long time and has a huge number of followers on social media. He has also proven to be a hitmaker, even when his role in big songs is unknown. Nevertheless, the Miami-based producer and DJ have been a staple in the industry for over a decade. He has been producing hit after hit and collaborating with some of the biggest artists in the game. 

Despite his ambiguity, his albums have continuously charted at the top. Also, he has continued to collaborate with the biggest name in the hip-hop/pop world, establishing himself as a generational musician. God Did, his 13th studio album, shows how much more he can do with his creativity. With so many albums under his belt, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the best DJ Khaled albums, ranked from worst to best.

“We Global” – DJ Khaled (2008)

We Global was DJ Khalid’s third studio album, and it failed to live up to the expectations set by his previous releases. The album featured a lot of guest appearances. However, the songs lacked the energy and creativity that fans had come to expect from DJ Khaled.

“Victory” (2010)

While Victory isn’t necessarily a bad album, it’s definitely not one of DJ Khaled’s best. The album features a lot of big names, including Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, and T-Pain. Nonetheless, the tracks just don’t come together as well as they do on some of his other albums. Notwithstanding, there are a few standout tracks, like “All I Do Is Win” and “Fed Up,” but overall, Victory falls short of expectations.

“Father of Asahd” (2019)

Father of Asahd was DJ Khaled’s eleventh studio album, and it met mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. While the album featured some great collaborations, it lacked the consistency and cohesiveness that fans had come to expect from DJ Khaled.

Suffering from Success – DJ Khaled (2013)

Suffering from Success was DJ Khaled’s seventh studio album, and it was a step in the right direction after his previous disappointments. The album featured some great collaborations, and the songs were catchy and energetic.

Kiss the Ring (2012)

Kiss the Ring was DJ Khaled’s sixth studio album, and it was a return to form for the artist. Interestingly, the album featured some great collaborations, and the songs were catchy and memorable.

Major Key (2016)

Major Key is a solid album that features some of DJ Khaled’s best work. The album features collaborations with everyone from Jay-Z and Future to Nicki Minaj and Drake. While there are a few forgettable tracks on the album, there are also some absolute bangers, like “I Got the Keys.” Overall, Major Key is a great addition to any hip-hop fan’s collection.

We the Best – DJ Khaled (2007)

We the Best is DJ Khaled’s second studio album and one of his best. The album features collaborations with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Lil Wayne, T-Pain, and Rick Ross. Additionally, the tracks on the album are catchy and intresting, with standout tracks like “We Takin’ Over” and “Brown Paper Bag.

Grateful (2017)

Grateful is DJ Khaled’s tenth studio album and his best work yet. This album heralded a new era for DJ Khaled, introducing a brighter pop feel to his often rap and hip-hop-centric tunes. Likewise, the album features collaborations with everyone from Beyoncé and Jay-Z to Justin Bieber and Chance the Rapper. The tracks on the album are stylish and catchy, with standout tracks like “Wild Thoughts” and “I’m the One.” Grateful is a testament to DJ Khaled’s talent as a producer and his ability to bring together some big artists in the industry.

God Did – DJ Khaled (2022)

Finally, on our album rank, God Did is the smash hit album of 2022. It brings us all out of our post-pandemic funk and provides us with a hip-hop goldmine to lift our spirits. With appearances from Eminem, SZA, Kanye West, Drake, and Don Toliver, it’s evident that Khaled has up his game. He delivered a dynamic and thrilling record that fans had been requesting. Staying Alive is a terrific R&B interpretation of the Bee Gees’ classic tune. Overall, DJ Khaled’s attitude is nicely captured in the song’s extended music video. 

In conclusion, DJ Khaled has had an impressive career in the music industry. He has been producing hit after hit and collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop. While all of his albums have their merits, some stand out above the rest. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting into his music, these albums above are a great place to start.

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Eminem’s Albums Ranked

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At this point, Eminem’s album discography has allowed him to become a legacy act. His career began in 1996 however, most of the world tapped in with him in 1999. Since then, he has released multiple albums all of which were discussed for one reason or another. Recently, he shifted into doing NFT related things which many fans are not fond of. However, he is still putting out music. He’s also capitalizing on the success of his previous albums by releasing deluxe/expanded editions. Unlike some modern artists, he has waited years instead of weeks or days to do this. Naturally, by being in the game for so long, he has created a large discography. We’ve compiled 10 of his albums and ranked them.

#10 Revival

For many listeners, this was supposed to be (another) comeback album from Eminem. It dropped in 2017 and the album before it dropped in 2013. A fake tracklist began circulating before the album was released. This fake tracklist gave the album two sides: One with more pop leaning features and the other with rap features. Fans shared what they were anticipating most as they have seen him excel at both. However, once the album was released, they realized this was not the format the album truly had. In fact, many listeners were disappointed in the album. They praised some aspects of the album’s final songs and the surprising Beyonce feature on the opening track. Many found issues with Em being the age he was but still using the same subject matter as music from his past.

#9 Encore

Originally, it was thought this would be Eminem’s last album. The album title, the final song’s title and the things happening in his life at the time pointed towards it. Due to this, this album tries to capture the several types of music Em was known for in his career. There are serious songs as well as silly songs. For many, the former did not work well as the songs just did not sound good. Due to Eminem’s process and condition at the time, several of these songs were just incoherent. Contrastingly, the album contains one of the best, well written and most praised songs in his career “Mockingbird” The fact he made a song like this as well as a song like “My 1st Single” and put it on the same album shows just how much was truly happening in his life and mainly, his mind. 

#8 Relapse

As more and more about the concept of this album was shared by Eminem, the listeners formed more concrete opinions about it. Some praised the concept of him becoming different “characters” on the album as well as how the storyline itself paralleled his own life. Because of these “characters” Em used different accents when speaking as them which was divisive for many people. Still, this album did have some moments that were universally celebrated. The single from Relapse:Refill titled “Forever” was one of the most talked about songs at the time. The features on it included Drake, Lil Wayne and Kanye West. There have been many stories of how people wrote – and rewrote their verses on the song. This song differed greatly from the much darker material on the rest of the album. 

#7 Recovery

For many, this album was a clear shift for Eminem. He spoke about the things he was truly going through – which he had done before – but things were different this time around. This album contains one of Eminem’s biggest songs, “Not Afraid”. For many, this song was motivational and it showed listeners that they could relate to Eminem’ struggles. This album also contains one of his most popular pop-rap collabs “Love the Way You Lie” which features Rihanna. This song was a massive success and showed that they were a duo that worked well together. It also brought in many listeners who previously had no interest in his music due to its content. Multiple listeners could tell several songs were written for this exact purpose. They accepted he had become even more of a global star and needed to make music that lined up with this status. 

#6 Music to be Murdered By

This is one of Eminem’s most recent album releases. This one was also a surprise drop that got a lot of attention quickly. For many, the most surprising part about this album were the features. Em had previously spoke ill of much of the current generation of rap. However, he now had songs with several big names of that generation. These included Juice WRLD, Don Toliver and Anderson .Paak. The latter is likely due to a conversation with Dr. Dre. Eminem showed he could fit in with the current generation of rap while still staying in the lane he was known for. Listeners have praised the songs on here for how good the chemistry was with the featured artists as well as the production. This album has “Godzilla” on it which features a hook from Juice WRLD and Eminem’s fastest verse to date – which broke a record he set himself.

#5 The Marshall Mathers LP 2

For many, The Marshall Mathers LP is Em’s best project. Getting a sequel was something they never thought would ever happen. It was announced that Rick Rubin was working with him for much of the album’s creation and production. People knew Rubin for his work with artists of all kinds in the music world so seeing his name generated hype. Once the album was released, his imprint on the album was clear especially its lead single “Berzerk” which samples the Beastie Boys. Many listeners enjoyed multiple songs on the album but are divided on if it truly should have been called a “sequel”. This album also contains the single “Rap God” which holds the Guinness World Record for most words in a hit single. 

#4 Kamikaze

This was a surprise “response” album from Eminem. As time has shown, he often hears and pays attention to the feedback he gets on his music, Listeners know this because of lines in songs that refer to the feedback he received. Most of the songs on the album are about this. Eminem listened to the feedback he got on the project before this one, Revival, and addressed it. He also makes multiple references to the state of rap at the time and how he mostly disapproves of it. The way he comes across when addressing it is a mix of disapproval for some of it. Many of his listeners disapproved of it too so his opinion lining up with theirs satisfied them.

#3 The Eminem Show

This is another album from Eminem that many people have praised. It largely departed from the Slim Shady character and gave listeners an even more focused view on Eminem as a person. Also, many listeners praised the rock influence on the album’s prediction. Considering Em said he grew up on rock and he produced many of the album’s songs, it all lines up. People praised this album for that factor and Eminem’s song writing itself. They were fans of how his flow and delivery synced up so well with the production. The subject matter was not as out there as some of his other work and that’s why listeners resonated with it on a different level. Several songs that are considered classics in his discography are all on this project.

#2 The Slim Shady LP

This was many people’s introduction to Eminem. As someone who was a new face in the rap game at the time, he wanted to make sure people knew exactly who he was. Ironically, the album’s first single was “My Name Is” and with it came controversy right out the gate. Clean and explicit versions of songs have been a thing in rap for years. However, with “My Name Is” entire lines are different between the two versions of the single. Many fans remember how they were even more surprised and shocked yet intrigued when they heard the explicit album version. This album is often praised because it balances Em’s introspective songs and colorful and creative songs well. Also, many of these songs were produced by The Bass Brothers which listeners say are a perfect pairing for Em since their beats place the focus on his rhymes. 

#1 The Marshall Mathers LP

For many listeners, this is the best Eminem album. It is his second one and they feel it capitalized on everything that made the previous one so good. As previously discussed, this is an album where Eminem spoke on things people were saying about him. This was not in terms of just the music but how he carried himself and other things happening in his life at the time. Naturally, the album is full of references to the pop culture world at the time. Eminem doubled down on making that one of his trademarks with this album with over-the-top lyrics of all kinds. For many listeners, this is one of his most influential albums. It showed the world who Eminem was as an artist and how he could craft songs excellent through verses and production from Dr. Dre and himself. 

Which of Eminem’s albums are your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.

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Earl Sweatshirt’s Albums, Ranked

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Los Angeles rapper Earl Sweatshirt’s rise in the Hip-Hop scene began in 2009 as a member of the alternative rap collective Odd Future. While fellow Odd Future members such as Tyler, the Creator and Frank Ocean have become worldwide stars in their own right, Sweatshirt has carved his own path in the underground and experimental rap scene. Sweatshirt is known for his lyrical ability, word play, and rhyme schemes, which are often compared to late rapper MF DOOM’s, and his sound has progressed and changed significantly since Odd Future’s inception. This list will rank all four of his studio albums. It will only contain full-length studio albums, so mixtape project ‘Earl’, 2020 EP ‘Feet of Clay’, and EP ‘Solace’ will not be included.

4. SICK! (2022)


Sweatshirt’s most recent album, ‘SICK!’ was released in 2022, four years after his last full length project, ‘Some Rap Songs’. While Sweatshirt became known for his sludgy, dirty sound, he veered away from it on this project in favor of clarity. ‘SICK!’s’ release was a sign of maturity for Sweatshirt as he abandoned many of the shock-rap qualities of his earlier projects and instead rapped about topics such as fatherhood and overcoming addiction and other mental health issues.

Highlights of the album include the intro track ‘Old Friend’ which contains a sound similar to many of the songs on Earl’s previous album, ‘Some Rap Songs’, as well as the final track of the album ‘Fire in the Hole’ as Earl raps about his maturity in relationships and as an artist.

The project is still obscure, as tracks such as ‘2010’ and ‘Tabula Rasa’ feat. Armand Hammer features Earl on beats unlike any other, however, the project lacks the indescribable rawness that was present on ‘Some Rap Songs’. Despite this, ‘SICK!’ was one of the best albums of the year upon its release and its low placement on this list is only due to the strength of Earl’s previous three projects.

3. Doris (2013)

Earl’s first full-length album came after a three year hiatus due to Sweatshirt’s mother sending him to a boarding school in Samoa. His disappearance sparked the “Free Earl” campaign by Odd Future and ‘Doris’ was one of the most anticipated albums of 2013. At the time of its release, Sweatshirt was only 19 years old, his youthful hunger on full display on this project.

‘Doris’ is arguably Sweatshirt’s most technically proficient project in terms of rhyme scheme and lyricism as tracks such as ‘Woah’ contain flows where nearly every word rhymes. The album also includes features from fellow Odd Future members Tyler, the Creator, Frank Ocean, and Domo Genesis, as well as features from Vince Staples, RZA, and Mac Miller. Sweatshirt’s youthful nature is apparent on tracks such as Sasquatch as ‘Doris’ occurred within a metamorphosis for Earl as he began to abandon his shock-rap qualities in favor of more substance-driven songs.

Highlights from the album include ‘Chum’, a deeply personal track that shows Earl’s maturity as he speaks on his difficult relationship with his father and other issues of adolescence. ‘Hive’, which features Vince Staples and Casey Veggies and displays Sweatshirt’s aptitude for whimsical wordplay and rhyme schemes.

This dichotomy of subject matter is consistent throughout the album, as Earl stayed true to his Odd Future roots, and also displayed his ability to deliver tracks with emotional weight behind them. Tyler, the Creator even mentions this contrast on his intro to ‘Woah’ as he tells Earl that just because he made ‘Chum’ and “got all personal” does not mean he can’t go back to that “old fucking 2010 shit”. ‘Doris’ lacks the artistic maturity of some of Sweatshirt’s later projects, yet Earl’s potential and prodigious talent shined throughout the album and was a testament of things to come.

2. I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside (2015)

Many fans believed Sweatshirt would take a more conventional approach to his music after the success of ‘Doris’ and the growing star-power of Tyler, the Creator and Frank Ocean in 2015. ‘I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside’ was presumed to be the sophomore breakout album that propelled Sweatshirt into the more mainstream sectors of the Hip-Hop scene, however, Sweatshirt decided to do the total opposite, as “IDLSIDGO” is one of the darkest, most depressing albums of the past decade.

“IDLSIDGO” begins with ‘Huey’, a track about Earl’s struggles with addiction as he raps “I spent the day drinking and missing my grandmother”. The project continues with the three track run of ‘Mantra’, ‘Faucet’, and ‘Grief’ in which Sweatshirt details his continuing struggles with addiction, depression, and the grief of his grandmother’s passing.

‘Faucet’ and ‘Grief’ are two of the best tracks on the album and two of the best of Earl’s discography. He enmeshes his lyrical ability with intense storytelling and psychological turmoil. “IDLSIGO” also contains features from Dash, Wiki, Na’kel Smith, and Vince Staples. Smith’s feature on ‘DNA’ is one of the most well-remembered. Na’kel raps about his own grief following his friend’s recent passing.

The project is ten tracks and only has a run-time of thirty minutes, yet not a second is wasted as it holds its listeners in a grief-stricken haze as Sweatshirt delivers one of the most gut-wrenching and depressing performances of any artist of the last decade. ‘I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside’ is an audial display of the pits of depression and grief and Sweatshirt encapsulates the feeling as only he can. The only thing keeping this album from the number one spot on this list is the brilliance of Sweatshirt’s following project.

1. Some Rap Songs (2018)


 No one could have predicted what Sweatshirt would do next following ‘I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside’, as Earl proved on that album that he was in a lane entirely his own. At only twenty-five minutes long, ‘Some Rap Songs’ leans even further into the experimental and conceptual as the album feels less like a musical project and more like a mind-bending trip into the psyche of Sweatshirt’s mind.

The project is deeply personal and psychological as Earl speaks on many topics present in his previous work, such as depression, addiction, and his relationships with his parents, yet ‘Some Rap Songs’ features a vulnerability that even ‘I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside’ did not. ‘Some Rap Songs’’ brilliance lies in its sonic uniqueness, as Sweatshirt raps complexities over subdued soulful loops that often do not even include drums.

The album is a symbol of Sweatshirt’s artistic maturity, as he all but neglects any sounds even reminiscent of conventionality and instead creates a project that is beyond comparison. The album begins with ‘Shattered Dreams’, as Earl allows listeners to enter what can only be described as a “dream-state” or place of limbo, and Sweatshirt proceeds to hold listeners there as each track following bleeds into the next, causing the album to feel experiential and otherworldly.

Sweatshirt’s subject matter is loose and fleeting, as Los Angeles rappers transitions topics from line-to-line, and yet this messiness and confusion personifies Sweatshirt’s mental state and somehow ends up cohesive and highly conceptual. There is an indescribable sinking nature to the project as it fades in-and-out as Sweatshirt lays down some of his most complex rhyme schemes and flows.

Playing Possum

The thirteenth track of the album, ‘Playing Possum’ also features both of Sweatshirt’s parents, Cheryl Harris and Keorapetse Kgositsile, as Earl shares an audio clip of one of his mother’s lectures and one of his late father’s poems. The final track of the album ‘Riot!’ is an instrumental that samples the 1969 song “Riot” by Hugh Masekela. The decision to end the project with this sort of silence is a moment of genius by Sweatshirt, and despite the absence of Earl’s lyrical ability, which was at one point his calling card, the song is one of Sweatshirt’s most beloved by fans. ‘Some Rap Songs’ is a project that transcends genre and tests the bounds of musical creativity. Its sheer uniqueness and artistry places it at number one on this list as it examines the human psyche through its conceptual and experimental form.

Kendrick Lamar’s Albums, Ranked

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Kendrick Lamar’s status as one of the greatest MCs of our time is undisputed. Growing up listening to West-Coast icons such as Snoop Dogg or 2Pac, he has solidified himself as an icon of our generation. The mastermind is more than just a musician. He architected the explosion of Top Dog Entertainment (TDE) as a minority owner, and has collaborated with a variety of film or clothing brands over the past five years.

Growing up in Compton, Lamar never subscribed to the traditional lifestyle of those around him. Achieving straight A’s in high school, his friends described him as a recluse that often spent time in alone. The creative icon clearly had a vision, one that began with a series of mixtapes which he began releasing at the age of 16. Signing with TDE at 17 years old, he was soon collaborating with fellow California MCs such as Jay Rock. Co-signed by Lil Wayne, he released debut ‘Kendrick Lamar EP’ in 2009. Lamar would jump leaps and bounds between every project, unwavering in his psychedelic blends of R&B and rap.

The Compton-born rapper would go on to release a number of Grammy-nominated classics, from the banger-heavy ‘Good Kid M.A.A.D City” to the socially conscious ‘Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers.’ So, how do you organize his records into ranked list? It certainly wasn’t easy, and there isn’t one right answer. Similar to the likes of Tyler, the Creator or Kanye West, everyone is going to have a different opinion. However, we did our best to rank Kendrick Lamar’s albums from worst to best.

8. ‘The Kendrick Lamar EP’

Kendrick Lamar’s first official release, the self-titled EP is an engaging listen for fans who want to hear how his sound and lyricism has progressed over the years. Featuring fellow West-Coast MCs like Schoolboy Q and BJ The Chicago Kid, the timid personality is boastful on the mixtape. Referencing the Grammy’s multiple times, there was a clear path to fame that the 21-year old was pursuing.

However, it’s far more than a traditionally boastful or trap-inherent record. Surprisingly mature for his age, he has intricate takes on being raised in the violent streets of Compton. Talking about his Uncle Tony or his tumultuous home life, many of the topics referenced would be discussed in more detail on ‘Good Kidd Maad City.’ In addition, he doesn’t shy away from more melodic tracks that would be more fully-fledged out on ‘Section 80.’

Lamar isn’t commanding beats and switching up his flows like he would on future projects. However, his ambition is apparent and attractive as a listener. Straining for start to finish, it’s an admirable project that would set the groundwork for the remainder of his career. The record’s final track concludes with external voices saying “Who are you? What are you trying to say? What are you trying to accomplish?” These are all questions he’s still navigating, which explains the half-baked nature of the mixtape’s sound and lyricism.

7. ‘Overly Dedicated’

At 23 years old, ‘Overly Dedicated’ comes from a rapper who’s still trying to figure out his sound. Often impersonating the likes of Lil Wayne or Eminem, Lamar is still “in the dungeon” in terms of drilling his own voice. However, he’s taken noticeable leaps from his debut mixtape. Lamar doesn’t constantly sound out of breath or lagging on a beat. In addition, the record sees him dramatically grow from a songwriting perspective, which is especially noticeable on tracks such as “The Heart Pt. 2.”

More abstract than ever on the production end, the attempt, similar to his self-titled EP, is hit or miss. Jhene Aiko makes an appearance on the lead track, delivering fleeting background vocals amidst a lofi R&B beat. Again, Lamar recruits his fellow So-Cal MCs such as Schoolboy Q and Ab-Soul. All of it sounds more in control and calculated. Lamar doesn’t know where he’s going to end up, but he finally knows where he’s going. Darting from smooth melodies to aggressive verses, ‘Overly Dedicated’ represents a steadfast improvement from his messy mixtape.

6. ‘Untitled, Unmastered’

It’s not uncommon for hallmark artists to release mixtapes or projects that exclusively feature lost tracks. Of course, these projects are almost always met with lowered expectations. After all, these are songs that weren’t quality enough to make an official release. However, ‘Untitled, Unmastered’ is shockingly great. Is it messy and sloppy? Sure, but the ideas here make it a worthwhile listen for any Kendrick Lamar fan.

‘Untitled, Unmastered’ is just as much an intricate piece of commentary as it is a piece of music. Songs randomly depart into spoken-word sections, or off-kilter audio recordings. For example, ‘Untitled 07’ starts off as a grimy banger, featuring wonky synths as Lamar yells out “levitate!” The track then diverts into a recording session amongst Kendrick and his friends. What does it mean from a conceptual perspective? There’s plenty of loose-ends left up to the interpretation of the listener, which is a consistent theme throughout the record.

A collection of leftovers from the ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ recording sessions, the 34-minute record still demonstrates far more power and originality than his most early works. Lines such as “See I’m living with anxiety, duck at the sobriety” prove that ‘Untitled, Unmastered’ is still an engaging record from a storytelling perspective, even if it’s jaded.

5. ‘Section 80’

In many people’s eyes, ‘Section 80’ is when the career of Kendrick Lamar really kicked off. The debut studio album from Kendrick Lamar, ‘Section 80’ is a fully realized version of ‘Overly Dedicated.’ Sampling the likes of Gil-Scott Heron and the Wu Tang Clan, he implements his childhood influences throughout the record. Kendrick essentials such as “A.D.H.D” and “HiiiPower” appear on an album that’s proven to be timeless.

Kendrick expresses his love through multi-faceted verses and soul-induced beats on ‘Section 80.’ His most somber listen yet, it’s a stark contrast to the bangers than would populate his next album. It’s his most summertime album yet, as he pitches down his voice and lays down catchy melodies on an album that isn’t as a feature heavy compared to his previous records. However, he still finds the space to include the likes of Ab-Soul and BJ the Chicago Kid.

Relentless and conceptual, the project attacks themes such as the 80s crack epidemic, racism, and complex love interests. ‘Section 80’ proved that the name Kendrick Lamar would be here to stay. While not quite as tight-knit or consistent as his later projects, it’s a generational album that propelled him onto the main stage of hip-hop.

4. ‘DAMN‘

Kendrick Lamar’s favorite album (up until Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers), ‘DAMN’ is the fourth studio album from Kung Fu Kenny. He was on-fire going into ‘DAMN,’ piggybacking off of the hype of his previous two records. Featuring a big-budget sound and a celebratory feature list, it’s undoubtedly his most mainstream record yet. However, this doesn’t mean that the record is wallpaper or repetitive. Kendrick attacks plenty of fresh territory on ‘DAMN,’ such as on the drop-dead gorgeous “LOVE.”

Touching on topics such as race relations in a post-Obama America and a deteriorating personal faith, Kendrick seems as unsure of himself as ever on ‘DAMN.’ It’s surprising considering his aforementioned success, but it’s presented in an eye-opening and engaging manner. His most successful commercial release to date, hit lead single “HUMBLE” is nearing 2 billion streams on Spotify. In addition, “DNA” is approaching 1 billion streams.

Somehow, Kendrick finds a way to re-invent himself on the 2017 release. His most scattered album yet, each song employs a completely left-field sound. Whether it be the oddball sample on “FEEL” or the explosive “DNA,” it’s certainly a mind-boggling first listen. In many ways, ‘DAMN’ blends the softer elements of ‘Section 80’ with the rap anthem aspects of ‘GKMC.’ While the album is missing the replay value of our top three records, Kendrick’s frankness about his flaws makes ‘DAMN’ a hell of a ride.

3. ‘Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers’

Kendrick Lamar’s most recent release, ‘Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers’ was his most introspective record to date. His sixth and last release for Top Dog Entertainment, the album symbolizes a new era for the elusive rapper. Purposefully taking himself out of the limelight over a two to three year span, he returned with a newfound perspective after having his second daughter with fiancé Whitney Alford. Featuring the likes of Sampha, Kodak Black, and Summer Walker, it was arguably his strongest feature album yet.

The record sees Kendrick fully tackle many of the personal demos that he hinted at on ‘DAMN.’ Finally at peace with the reality that he (just like all of us) is inherently flawed, he sheathes his ego in favor of a therapeutic 78-minute expression of sound. The two disks symbolize two sides of Kendrick. On the first disk, he’s at a darker place, coming from a place of anger rather than understanding. The second disk sees Kendrick overcome his trauma through therapy and reflection on difficult experiences. Menacing piano chords and dark commentary populate much of the record, generating a unique sound that aids to the narrative of the album.

Even though ‘Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers’ is full of tearful ballads, that’s not to say that he doesn’t have any sort of fun. Teaming up with Baby Keem for electronic banger “N95,” rapid and wistful synths blend in with Kendrick’s menacing voice. “Die Hard” is a feel-good song through and through, as Kendrick takes a backseat to allow Blxst and Amanda Reifer to deliver gleeful vocal falsettos. “Rich Spirit” makes the listener feel as if they’re underwater, as the far-away vocals and snappy 808s aid to the relaxing, cerebral feel of the track.

‘Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers’ feels like the tight-knit, narratively conceptual project that ‘DAMN’ was meant to be. An emotional rollercoaster, Kendrick tackles his demons through transparent lyricism and experimental piano loops or synths. While Kendrick doesn’t quite match the vocal performances or consistency of our top 2 records, the Grammy-winning project was his “return of the king” moment.

2. ‘good Kid, m.A.A.d. city’

The quintessential coming of age rap album, ‘GKMC’ was Kendrick’s most banger-heavy record yet. Full of timeless rap anthems, it’s a conceptual callback to his Compton roots. Kendrick’s “we made it” record, the listener feels like he’s driving through Southern California in a Mercedes Benz with Kenny and his friends. Kendrick addresses many of the ills of growing up in Compton, from racial profiling to constant pressures to conform to the toxicity around him.

Releasing a mere year after ‘Section 80,’ ‘GKMC’ continued to solidify Kendrick as a socially aware lyricist, whose verses proved to be just as effective under a variety of genre-bending styles. However, this was undeniably his most hardcore hip-hop album to date. From “Money Trees” to “Swimming Pools,” he’s drowning in money, alcohol, and fame amidst trap beats. Many of the bangers act as smokescreens for his deep-rooted issues. “Swimming Pools” sounds like a simple banger that endorses alcohol on first listen. However, more listens make the nuance of Kendrick’s message about alcohol or drugs apparent.

Kendrick assumes a variety of alter-egos to symbolize his varying states of consciousness on the record. On “Backseat Freestyle,” he states “I pray my d**k get big as the Eiffel Tower” amidst a wind-chime sampled beat and a booming base. However, tracks such as “Real” reveal this ego to be un-founded, as it represents Kendrick behind drawn into the toxic life around him. “Sing About Me, Dying of Thirst” is commonly believed to be one of his best songs. A deeply religious track, Kendrick comes crashing down from the highs of fame and drug-use.

One of the greatest rap albums of the 2010s, the record was infamously snubbed for a Grammy by Macklemore’s ‘The Heist.’ However, it’s sound is un-paralleled. Kendrick is just a teenager trying to withhold the temptation to fall into the status quo of his surroundings, and the creative expression of that time in his life is beautiful.

1. ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’

At our number one spot, we have ‘To Pimp a Butterfly.’ Kendrick’s third studio album under TDE, he incorporates jazz, funk, and soul into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The theatricality is the record is all-encompassing, as Kendrick embraces all that comes with his roots. His most textured and in-depth studio album, he negates the claims of a utopic black future that many associated with President Obama. ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ is theatrical, crushing, and electric all at once.

‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ spans the history of African-American music, as proven by the hints of jazz and funk throughout the album. A tribute to those who struggled before him, his message is unsurprisingly layered and meaningful. With the cover art featuring his friends and brothers from Compton, the group stands over a white judge with his eyes crossed out. Seemingly an expression of solidarity and African-American expression, it’s one of the more powerful album covers of all time.

Kendrick covers topics such as race, sex, and poverty through funky grooves. As personal as ever, he discusses not being there enough for his relatives, or for the death of his friend. Take “Wesley’s Theory,” where he raps as various alter-egos amongst wailing g-funk synthesizers. Portraying that success come with debts, we also get our bangers such as “King Kunta” and “Alright.” Alcohol is a common theme throughout the album. In fact, you can literally how the swishing of liquor amongst the background of numerous tracks, symbolizing how fame has equated with him feeling more out of touch.

‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ is Kendrick Lamar’s best album, both on the sonic and conceptual front. From Thundercat’s basslines to the somber horns on “How Much a Dollar Cost?,” it’s a polarizing record in the best way possible. His most daring and ambitious project, the record signified a definite end to the bling era of rap. Balancing the grim reality of tragedy with the hope for a better future, it’s one of the most lyrically dense records of all time.