Some of the best hip-hop albums of 2024 were released near the top of the year. However, there is no denying that the last few weeks of the year ultimately restored some balance. Overall, we got projects some from of the most beloved figures in rap. ScHoolBoy Q, Boldy James, Kendrick Lamar, LL Cool J, Future, and many more delivered some sensational albums. Hip-hop fans were truly blessed, and after what many considered to be a down year in 2023, we definitely got treated to some heat in 2024.
With that being said, it is hard to rank all of the albums that came out. However, we wouldn’t be HotNewHipHop if we didn’t at least give it a try. Our staff has been diligently listening to all of this year’s new releases, and they feel very strongly about the entries below. Only time will tell whether or not these picks end up aging like milk. We’re sure our dedicated commenters will be quick to let us know.
When compiling a list of the hottest hip-hop songs of 2024, you don’t have to dig too deep into the well to find great songs. Overall, rap’s biggest stars showed up and showed out this year. Of course, the beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake gave us lots of new material, with the former making some of the catchiest records of his career. Meanwhile, we had breakout stars like Doechii show the world just how lyrically gifted she is. Additionally, albums like Dark Times, Blue Lips, and Chromakopia gave us tons of phenomenal songs to sink our teeth into.
Simply put, 2024 was a phenomenal year for hip-hop. Despite so many calling the genre’s demise, it is clear that hip-hop is still very much alive and well. With that being said, it is finally time to countdown HotNewHipHop’s hottest hip-hop songs of 2024. Enjoy!
Overall, 2024 was phenomenal for a whole lot of reasons, and chief among them was the sheer amount of quality R&B albums we got. Although most fans were paying attention to all of the wild stories going on in rap, others were chilling out while listening to artists like Leon Thomas, Lucky Daye, and Tems. The genre’s biggest superstars decided to drop projects, and we are certainly grateful for that. From sensational debuts to continuations of iconic album series, R&B fans were truly blessed.
Having said that, we have now reached the end of the year and it is officially time to count down the hottest R&B albums of 2024. We’re sure there is going to be quite a bit of debate about these. However, if one thing is certain, it is that there is something here for everyone. So without further ado, behold our latest list.
2024 was a big year for hip-hop. Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s viral lyrical battle thrust the genre into the spotlight, for one, leaving even non-hip-hop-heads with no choice but to weigh in. On top of this, Diddy’s arrest, his long list of disturbing allegations, and mansion raids also went mainstream. This marked the start of what will likely be a long and complex legal battle.
He’s far from the only hip-hop artist to make headlines for their legal issues this year, however. Lil Durk was also arrested for alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy and remains behind bars facing a hefty sentence if convicted. Young Thug, on the other hand, saw the chaotic YSL trial come to an end and was finally released. Check out a breakdown of these moments, and a few more of the biggest hip-hop moments of the year down below.
Kendrick Lamar performs during the 60th Annual Grammy Awards at Madison Square Garden. Usp Entertainment 60th Annual Grammy Awards. Robert Deutsch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In March of this year, Future and Metro Boomin unleashed their eagerly anticipated collaborative album, We Don’t Trust You. The project boasts various high-profile features, including a verse from Kendrick Lamar on “Like That.” In it, K. Dot disses both Drake and J Cole, shutting down the latter’s “First Person Shooter” claim that they make up the “big three.” This ignited what would become an explosive and viral lyrical battle between Kendrick and Drake, who responded a few weeks later with his track “Push Ups.” Ultimately, the two of them went back and forth for a while until things reached an ugly peak.
Drake dropped “Family Matters” in May, accusing Kendrick of domestic violence and more. Kendrick responded within the hour with “Meet The Grahams,” addressing Drake’s son directly and leaving fans in shambles. Less than 24 hours later, Kendrick put the final nail in the coffin by releasing “Not Like Us.” In it, he alleges that Drake and his OVO crew are sexual predators. This quickly became a massive hit, which Kendrick later performed at his LA “Pop Out” show surrounded by peers. This feud has been dominating headlines for some time now and continues to even months later. Several of the rappers’ peers have jumped into the mix too, making for a feud that’s sure to be discussed for years to come.
Diddy’s Disturbing Allegations, Home Raids, And Arrest
Feb 4, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Recording artist P. Diddy a/k/a Sean Combs prior to the game between the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium. Brad Rempel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In November 2023, Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie filed a lawsuit against the Bad Boy founder, which contained countless disturbing allegations. She accused him of sexual assault, abuse, and much more. Almost immediately, they settled, but this was far from the end of his legal issues. Diddy went on to be hit with several other lawsuits from individuals making similarly shocking allegations against him. In March of this year, his mansions in LA and Miami were raided by federal agents.
In September, the mogul was arrested in NYC, where he remains behind bars for charges related to alleged sex trafficking, racketeering, and more. An unsealed federal indictment shows that authorities accuse him of forcing people to participate in drug-fueled sex parties called “freak offs,” using blackmail to silence his alleged victims, and much more. Diddy is currently awaiting a trial which is expected to begin in May 2025. He’s maintained his innocence, denying all allegations aside from the 2016 assault of Cassie captured by hotel surveillance cameras.
Young Thug attends a dinner celebrating his album “Punk” on October 25, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)
In May 2022, Young Thug and various other YSL affiliates were arrested as part of a 56-count indictment. Authorities accused the Atlanta rapper of leading a criminal street gang, and he was facing serious time behind bars if convicted. Following a long and chaotic trial, however, Young Thug finally decided to accept a plea deal and was released In October of this year. As part of the deal, he’ll spend 15 years on probation and can’t communicate with any alleged gang members or YSL affiliates, on top of various other release conditions.
Following over two years in prison, however, Young Thug and his supporters were thrilled with the verdict. Immediately, social media users praised his lawyer Brian Steel for his work and began to anticipate what’s next for Young Thug. This is still unclear, though he has since been spotted in the studio alongside peers like Travis Scott, Lil Baby, and Future.
Lil Durk’s Arrest For Alleged Murder-For-Hire
Rapper Lil Durk performs during Morehouse & Spelman College Homecoming 2023 at Morehouse College on October 25, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/WireImage)
In October of this year, Lil Durk was arrested in Florida for alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy. His arrest took place hours after five alleged OTF affiliates were arrested. Authorities believe they were allegedly paid to carry out the murder of Quando Rondo in retaliation for the 2020 murder of King Von. In 2022, Quando Rondo and his cousin Lul Pab were targeted in a shooting at a Los Angeles gas station. Quando Rondo walked away unscathed while Lul Pab succumbed to his injuries.
In December, he was linked to yet another alleged murder-for-hire, this time concerning the 2022 death of Stephon Mack. Authorities believe his fatal shooting was allegedly carried out in retaliation for the 2021 murder of Durk’s brother Dontay “DThang” Banks. They accuse the rapper of offering payments to eliminate witnesses, but he’s not been formally charged for this. Durk remains behind bars in LA for his alleged crimes, and reportedly, could face a life sentence if convicted. Per U.S. Magistrate Judge Patricia Donahue’s orders, he will await trial in custody. His trial has been scheduled to begin on January 7 of next year. According to ABC7, however, it’s “expected to be postponed.”
Rich Homie Quan performs during the inaugural 2024 Gazebo Festival at Waterfront Park on May 25, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)
Hip-hop fans said goodbye to several artists in 2024, and while they’re no longer with us, they certainly won’t be forgotten. In September of this year, for example, Rich Homie Quan passed away at the age of 34 in Atlanta. The Fulton County Medical Examiner soon ruled his death an accidental overdose. According to TMZ, various substances including fentanyl, alprazolam, codeine, and promethazine were in his system at the time of death. After his passing, Quan’s father Corey Lamar revealed that he had an entire full-length album on the way when he died. In October, his estate unveiled his first posthumous album, Forever Goin In, featuring 35 tracks worth of previously unreleased material.
In June, 26-year-old 1017 signee Enchanting also passed away unexpectedly after it was revealed that she’d been placed on life support. The tragic and untimely loss hit the hip-hop community hard and left her supporters devastated. The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed that she too died of an accidental overdose. Reportedly, oxycodone and benzodiazepines were found in the young artist’s system. “She lived her life with grace and blessed so many with friendship, laughter and love,” the Texas rapper’s family fondly recalled in a statement.
Weeks after Enchanting’s passing, Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio passed away after a shooting at his 26th birthday party. Five suspects were later identified and four were taken into custody. The state of Florida plans to seek the death penalty for three of them. Other notable hip-hop figures who passed away in 2024 include Rico Wade, Ka, DJ Mister Cee, Fatman Scoop, DJ Clark Kent, and more.
Killer Mike Gets Arrested After Grammys Sweep
Killer Mike performs during the 2024 The Thing Festival at Remlinger Farms on August 10, 2024 in Carnation, Washington. (Photo by Astrida Valigorsky/WireImage)
In February of this year, Killer Mike took home various Grammys for his sixth studio album, MICHAEL. He won an award for Best Rap Album, as well as Best Rap Song and Rap Performance for his track with Andre 3000, Future, and Eryn Allen Kane, “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS.” The impressive sweep came as a surprise to many and led to plenty of debate amongst social media users.
Shortly after his big wins, however, footage of him being led out of the ceremony in handcuffs hit the internet. Reportedly, he’d been booked for misdemeanor battery after an alleged altercation with a security guard who refused to let him in the venue. He later addressed the debacle on The View. “All of my heroes have been in handcuffs,” he said at the time. “[Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Medgar Evers]. I walked out with the same dignity and respect that I walked in with, and I would implore people to just take that from it. Don’t dwell on the bad stuff.”
Drake performs onstage during “Lil Baby & Friends Birthday Celebration Concert” at State Farm Arena on December 9, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)
Months after Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s heated feud reached its peak, the latter made one of his most controversial moves yet by taking legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify. In a pre-action petition filed in November, he accused the companies of artificially boosting Kendrick’s diss track “Not Like Us” using bots and payola. “UMG did not rely on chance, or even ordinary business practices,” the filing alleges in part, per Billboard. “It instead launched a campaign to manipulate and saturate the streaming services and airwaves.” Drake also accuses UMG of violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, deceptive business practices, and false advertising.
Unsurprisingly, this sparked a major debate among fans and peers. Some believe he has a real chance of exposing alleged corruption in the music industry. Others think the petition makes him look jealous of Kendrick’s success. Hours after it was filed, UMG released a statement denying the allegations. “The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue,” it reads. “We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns. No amount of contrived and absurd legal arguments in this pre-action submission can mask the fact that fans choose the music they want to hear.”
Jay-Z Accused Of Sexually Assaulting 13-Year-Old With Diddy
Nov 24, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Recording artist Jay-Z walks on the field before the game between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys at Northwest Stadium. Peter Casey / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In December, an anonymous woman amended a lawsuit she’d filed against Diddy in October, adding new allegations against Jay-Z. She alleges that they both sexually assaulted her at a party in 2000 when she was 13 years old. The woman is being represented by Tony Buzbee, a Houston-based lawyer already representing several of Diddy’s accusers. The Roc Nation founder quickly fired back amid the allegations. He even hit Buzbee with some of his own in a lengthy statement.
In it, he accuses Buzbee of blackmail, being a “fraud,” and more. Jay-Z and his attorney Alex Spiro sued Buzbee for alleged extortion before he was named in the anonymous woman’s lawsuit. They allege that he came to them and “threatened to unleash entirely fabricated and malicious allegations of sexual assault” if they didn’t comply with his demands.
Dr. Dre Finally Secures Star On Hollywood Walk Of Fame
Feb 5, 2023; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Dr. Dre accepts the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award during the 65th Annual Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023. Robert Hanashiro / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In March, Dr. Dre was honored for his invaluable contributions to hip-hop with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Friends and collaborators like Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Jimmy Iovine, Eminem, and more were in attendance to celebrate and hear the producer’s heartfelt speech. In it, the Compton native reflected on his career, making a living doing what he loves, and more.
“Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of finding and nurturing new talent as well as pushing the boundaries in hip-hop both in content and substance,” he said in part. “But I’m most proud of elevating the sound and clarity of how we experience hip-hop. Getting that thing right is one of my greatest achievements. I love that this honor is unique to Los Angeles and brings fans from all over the world to connect with their favorite artists. I’ll be here forever.”
Kendrick Lamar Surprise-Drops GNX
Apr 23, 2017; Indio, CA, USA; Kendrick Lamar performs during the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at Empire Polo Club. Zoe Meyers / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In November, Kendrick Lamar took the world by surprise by dropping an entire album without warning, GNX. Rumors that he had something up his sleeve had been circulating for months before the release. It left his supporters in shambles regardless and has since been a major success.
It sold a whopping 319K album-equivalent units in its first week, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart. It’s the fifth No. 1 album of Kendrick’s career and the sixth-biggest debut week for an album in 2024. Shortly after the release, the Compton rapper also unveiled a reference-packed music video for “squabble up,” paying homage to the West Coast.
Between the biggest battle of the last 20 years, YSL’s stint in the longest criminal trial in Georgia history, and the downfall of a previously unstoppable executive, hip-hop had a pretty massive 2024. Sadly, these stories and many others garnered a lot of headlines and pushed the culture’s proliferation far outside of its musical boundaries. Many folks re-listening to “Family Matters” and “6:16 in LA” did so to catch the gaps in evidence and strategy, not to reflect on their melodic or lyrical prowesses. So it goes without saying that many of the art form’s most compelling and impressive offerings over the past 12 months or so flew completely under the radar… Even our own, for a time. But we’re very happy to admit that we slept on some gems and rounded up five of the most underrated rap albums of this year that grew on us the most.
These hip-hop projects took some time to settle in for many different reasons. They all came out pretty early in the year, back when we still had larger releases on our horizon or found ourselves completely overwhelmed by surprise diss tracks. We’ve already sung some of their praises before and want to double down on them, whereas other picks never got their proper shine. However, no matter why we initially brushed these records off, their merits in performance, production, thematic depth, catchiness, or idiosyncrasy eventually eroded any skepticism. Obviously, we missed out on a lot of hidden treasures in 2024, and looking back on everyone’s sleeper picks will be one of the year’s very last treats for the rap community. Before we head into the next quarter of the century, don’t skip out on these outstanding works.
Bruiser Wolf – My Story Got Stories
My Story Got Stories easily ranks among 2024’s funniest hip-hop albums for the enthralling and unmistakable delivery of Bruiser Wolf, one of Danny Brown’s Bruiser Brigade colleagues from Detroit. But many fans heard his storybook tone and kept their praise to only that. Despite the acquired taste that this project’s main artist and production pallet employ, don’t miss out on some of the sharpest, most clever, and most hilarious punchlines of the year. “Everything I do is monumental / It’s a cycle, period, menstrual” had us laughing all throughout 2024, and there’s plenty of heartfelt sadness and melancholy to balance out that sense of humor. Dusty samples, languid boom-bap beats, vivid street life descriptions, and quick-hitting song structures make for a whole slew of stories that walk the line between harrowing and hilarious. Also, the focus on accountability and loyalty informs the bravado with a lot of conviction.
All that said, don’t think that Bruiser Wolf’s My Story Got Stories is just a collection of old-timey, quirky, comical asides. “2 Bad” with Danny Brown and Zelooperz is one of the most ridiculously animated bangers of the year, and “I Was Taught To” with Trinidad James is a trill and low-riding cruise. Some of the stark and skipping sample flips, such as the atmospherically stretched-out vocals of “Holla At Ya Mans” and the static-laden soul on “Dope Ain’t Good” with Stretch Money, can bleed into each other on occasion. Fortunately, once you really focus on the instrumentals and verses, it all comes together as a psychedelic, rugged, and somehow unsettling album experience. It just goes to show that a whimsical perspective can bring the light out of the darkest street corners, which was an unparalleled process to undergo in 2024.
When thinking about the best rap albums of any given year, you might initially call attention to what feels deep, meaningful, or thematically significant. But then you’d have to balance that out with some of the most fun and vibrant music of that same period, and we can’t let 2024 go by without putting TiaCorine’s Almost There EP into that conversation. It’s eight tracks of no-frills plugg and rage-inspired material with some truly catchy melodies and moments, such as the phased-out and swirling buzzes on “Blick” with Key Glock and the choppy triplet embellishments on “Burnt.” What really creeps under your skin and leaps out without warning, though, is the North Carolina spitter’s vocal dynamism and flow control on here. It’s a big part of what makes these beats come alive, even as they might not hit your ears as particularly unique instrumentals.
For every deep-toned and menacing trap banger like “Give No F**k,” there’s a bubbly and sweet wave to ride on cuts like “Shamone.” Production-wise, there’s a lot here to create a solid resting place for TiaCorine’s displays: acidic synths, dense bass, sharp trap percussion, dreamy pads, and airy tones. She handles it all with a lot of charisma and surprising versatility, as her raspy growls on the Luh Tyler-assisted “Yung Joc” match the bass while her malleable flow delivery compliments the crystalline keys. All in all, Almost There occupies multiple hip-hop moods and appeals at the same time. “Olive” with Zelooperz is still one of our favorite ragers of the year, whereas “Bonnet” and “Nah He Tweakin” round the EP out with more relaxed and ethereal melodic dominance. Despite its short length and simple nature, this is one of rap’s most satisfying batches of ear candy in 2024.
Quadeca – SCRAPYARD
By the time our mid-year list rolled around, Quadeca’s new mixtape SCRAPYARD was already burrowing itself into our brains. Still, a lot of that appeal came down to the enduring catchiness and emotional resonance of the Los Angeles native’s 2023 EPs leading up to the full album. The tender bossa nova and alt-tinged hyperpop fusions of “A LA CARTE” featuring brakence, the brief yet minimally glitched-out confidence of “I MAKE IT LOOK EFFORTLESS,” and the jittery distortion on “GUESS WHO?” were leftovers from last year that, when we initially listened to SCRAPYARD, ranked head and shoulders above its newer offerings. Eventually, the controlled chaos of genre mixes, mood swings, and production techniques of the whole package really settled in as an expressive, cathartic, and engrossing full-length.
Harcore Quadeca fans finally got “BEING YOURSELF” on an official release, introducing its cavernous bass and fluttering flows to a whole new base. “PRETTY PRIVILEGE” draws from – and evolves – the emo-trap tradition with rich hand percussion and intoxicating electric guitar tones. Perhaps the biggest grower is “U TRIED THAT THING WHERE UR HUMAN,” whose initially off-putting whispers perfectly prelude an ambient, folky, lo-fi beat that gives more singer-songwriter than seasoned MC. Add a soulful boom-bap cut in “WAY TOO MANY FRIENDS” and you’ve got one of the most creative, undefinable, and colorful albums of 2024 in any genre. Maybe that’s why the 24-year-old’s latest LP took some time to grow. It’s not solely hip-hop – or any genre, for that matter. Yet its assembly of disparate scraps to craft an earthy sound not only creates amazing rap music as a result, but also excellently embodies the art form’s ethos.
A week after Tierra Whack dropped her long-awaited debut full-length album WORLD WIDE WHACK, Kendrick Lamar lit the rap game on fire and reset the year for our minds. It was honestly a huge disservice and misstep on our part, as the Philly native came through with the vibrance and wonder that she’s known for while adding some new flourishes to her arsenal. For example, “MS BEHAVE” is one of her most brash and bass-heavy songs yet, and “X” continues this dark and primal percussive journey. Longtime fans still got some of the low-key, crisp, and perky jams they love such as “DIFFICULT” and “INVITATION,” in addition to Tierra’s most diverse and organically fused sonic pallet yet. The project travels from triumphant and egocentric excess to down-trodden and despondent tribulations, although it never loses its personal and intimate charm. In other words, it fittingly and progressively expands Whack World.
Nevertheless, Tierra Whack’s experimentation and songwriting focus on WORLD WIDE WHACK doesn’t automatically jump out at you. Somber interludes like “NUMB” and “BURNING BRAINS” are pretty unassuming at first, and only reveal their powers once the stickiness of other tracks wears off on you. Maybe you can attribute this to the thin trap drums on a lot of beats here, or to the washed-out aesthetics that cloak much of each song’s atmosphere. But you eventually realize what’s taking all that extra space up, and it’s the 29-year-old’s captivating personality and presence. It’s sometimes understated, but those partially obscured moments always pair up with relatable lyricism and grounded themes of identity, contradiction, and emotional volatility. It might not be the most bombastic or instantly gratifying LP of 2024, but it certainly stands among its most vulnerable and varied.
Cavalier – Different Type Time
Finally, we wanted to shout out Backwoodz Studioz for backing one of the best lyrical displays of 2024. Cavalier’s Different Type Time reflects the passions of a rapper unsatisfied with the perfectionist rat race of the music industry, and these 21 tracks reflect that level of frustrated inspiration with grace. Boom-bap permeates throughout calm and collected instrumental clouds on cuts such as “Can’t Leave It Alone” with Eric Jaye, and the project overall feels like a particularly healing piece of underground hip-hop. Of course, jazzy passages and reflective ambiance define much of this LP as well. It makes more fiery fare like “Doodoo Damien” hit that much harder, especially when the Brooklyn-born and New Orleans-based lyricist weaves intricate rhyme schemes together with raw perception wise beyond his years. Since it’s such a familiar sound, it’s up to the listener to dig through the diamonds in these verses.
As much as the pen dominates Different Type Time, Cavalier also crafted some of the most gorgeous soulful fusions of hip-hop this year, such as “Think About It” with Billzegypt. There’s such an immediate and in-your-face approach to a lot of the mixing behind the instrumentation and percussion here, adding this live feel to narratives of struggle that turns them into consistently evocative songs. Even though 2024 had more daring or widespread challenges to rap’s status quo, this album shows off the power of tradition, homage, and fundamental ingenuity with no need for invasive bells and whistles. It’s a very blunt record in that sense, even if the bars here will always warrant a rewind. For those listeners looking for the furtherance of the culture’s linguistic excellence, storytelling prowess, and foundational elements, this offers even more.
This past year was absolutely massive for the sports world, and some of the best athletes of 2024 came from an array of disciplines. Overall, the NBA and the NFL reigned supreme, at least from an American perspective. However, sports like hockey, and Formula 1 saw huge surges in viewership. Baseball was also a huge story this year, thanks to the Shohei Ohtani and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ultimately, dynasties were born, and other dynasties grew strong. Although some may have been disappointed with the outcomes of championship games, you cannot deny that numerous athletes put on spectacular performances. So without further ado, here are our top 10 best athletes of 2024.
To begin our list, we have none other than Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic who, in tandem with Kyrie Irving, led the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals this past year. Overall, Doncic proved himself as one of the best players in the entire National Basketball Association. Although his team came up short in the end, Doncic has pretty much ascended as the most likely heir to the face of the NBA throne. When LeBron James eventually retires, players like Doncic will ensure that this league remains in good hands. It is only a matter of time before Doncic hoists the Larry O’Brien trophy.
9. Lionel Messi
Subsequently, we have Lionel Messi who should forever be a mainstay on these kinds of lists. Although his year was relatively quiet compared to 2022 when he won the World Cup, Messi has remained the GOAT of soccer. His past season with Inter Miami led to even more legacy building and when you compare his current play to Cristiano Ronaldo’s, it becomes clear who the better player is and has always been. What more can you say? Messi is the greatest soccer player on the planet and when all is said and done, he will have a very strong case as the best to ever step on the pitch.
8. Max Verstappen
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 23: Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates his fourth World Drivers’ Championship with his crew in pit lane during the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas at Las Vegas Strip Circuit on November 23, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images)
While some of you out there may not consider Formula 1 a sport, such a take would be coming from a place of ignorance. These drivers are athletes through and through, and the best of the best over the last four seasons has been Max Verstappen. The Red Bull driver picked up where Lewis Hamilton left off. After Hamilton won four championships in a row, Verstappen has matched that, even though his competition is considerably weaker. This season was one of his most difficult as the Red Bull car slowed down in the middle of the season. However, Verstappen outperformed his equipment and gave some impeccable drives that ultimately saved his championship campaign.
7. LeBron James
You cannot mention the best athletes of 2024 without also giving some love to none other than LeBron James. LeBron is set to turn 40 years old at the end of December, and somehow, he has been able to fend off father time. Admittedly, the start of this season has been a bit of a rocky one for LeBron. His age is finally catching up to him, but at this point, who cares? LeBron has given us over 20 years of high-level basketball and in 2024, he continued to grow his records. Moreover, he gave us more myth-building that will last generations. Not to mention, he got his son Bronny drafted into the NBA and even got to share the floor with him. If that is not special, we don’t know what is.
6. Lamar Jackson
LAS VEGAS, NV – FEBRUARY 8: Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens poses for a portrait after winning MVP at the 13th Annual NFL Honors on February 8, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)
Next up on our list, we have the NFL MVP himself, Lamar Jackson. Once again, Jackson had another exceptional regular season. Although his Baltimore Ravens came up short against the Kansas City Chiefs, this was the furthest Lamar had ever gone in the playoffs, and it seems like he is on the cusp of greatness. In the 2024 regular season, Jackson has continued his MVP-level play, and the Ravens look like a team that could definitely make it to the Super Bowl. Regardless of whether or not they win it all, Jackson is a top-three quarterback in the NFL, and his accomplishments throughout 2024 speak for themselves.
A best athlete of 2024 list would be completely out to lunch without an entry for Connor McDavid. Sure, hockey is not very popular compared to basketball and football. However, one of the best players in their respective sport would be Connor McDavid. The Edmonton Oilers captain led his team to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they eventually lost in seven games to the Florida Panthers. That said, the series itself was a special one as McDavid was able to lead his team back from an 0-3 deficit. He was on a tear at one point in the Finals, and he showed the world that he could be the best player in the biggest moments. Had he won the Cup, he would be higher than fifth on this list.
4. Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics won the NBA Finals this past year in five games against the Dallas Mavericks. It was an easy series for the Celtics, and while Jaylen Brown won Finals MVP, there is no doubt that Jayson Tatum was sensational, especially in the close-out games. Throughout the season, Tatum was making an argument for himself as the best player in the NBA. Upon winning the championship, Tatum has continued to play at a high level and has been dominant to start the 2024-25 season. The Celtics are already the championship favorites, and if Tatum wins a Finals MVP, then he may just become the true face of the league, whether the haters want that or not.
3. Caitlin Clark
No athlete on this list has been more polarizing than Caitlin Clark. However, Clark has certainly earned her place at number three as she has completely transformed the WNBA since being drafted first overall by the Indiana Fever. For many, Clark’s ascension to fame began in the NCAA Championship Game against LSU where she went toe-to-toe with Angel Reese. This past year, Clark got her revenge in the Elite Eight against LSU. Many predicted that she would come into the WNBA and immediately become one of the league’s best players. While it took her until after the Olympics to get her footing, Clark catapulted to a Top 5 player and won Rookie of the Year. Additionally, every single game she played in had a sold-out crowd, and the TV ratings for Fever games were competing with some NBA match-ups. Regardless of results, no athlete had a larger impact on their league than CC.
2. Patrick Mahomes
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 07: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs off the field after the first half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on January 07, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
What more can you say about Patrick Mahomes? Overall, he is already one of the best quarterbacks to ever do it. In just seven seasons, he has managed to win three Super Bowls including two back-to-back championships. Moreover, the Chiefs looked primed and ready for a three-peat. There isn’t much else to say about Mahomes at this point. The only person he is chasing down right now is Tom Brady, and that is certainly going to take a while. However, in terms of pure talent and creativity, Mahomes might be the best quarterback we have ever seen. Teams fear him, and opposing fans absolutely despise him. But at this point, you just have to sit back and appreciate greatness.
1. Shohei Ohtani
Our number-one athlete for 2024 is none other than Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers. In his first season with the Dodgers, Ohtani was able to win his first World Series, and based on the team’s upcoming roster moves, he may just win another. Having said that, 2024 was truly the best year of Ohtani’s career. Due to surgery, he decided not to pitch. Instead, he focused on hitting, and it worked out well for him. His home run/stolen bases record was truly impressive, and there was no doubt that his production was fueling the Dodgers to new heights. He elevated his teammates, and come playoff time, Ohtani showed that he’s also fantastic in the clutch. No athlete was as captivating as Ohtani. He will be the face of Major League Baseball for years to come.
The last year may have been marred with some of the most viral feuds in hip-hop history, but that doesn’t mean 2024 wasn’t filled with phenomenal hip-hop collaborations as well. Even while sparking one of the biggest rifts in years, Kendrick Lamar worked with both Metro Boomin and Future to kick off his war of words with Drake. Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge finally reunited for a new NxWorries album, Boldy James once again partnered with Nicholas Craven, and ASAP Rocky even reached outside of the genre to tap the elusive folk singer, Jessica Pratt, for his Don’t Be Dumb lead single. Altogether, the following hip-hop collaborations have helped lead 2024 to be one of the strongest stretches for hip-hop in recent memory.
Future, Metro Boomin, Kendrick Lamar – “Like That”
Arguably the most important song on this list for defining this year in hip-hop came from Future, Metro Boomin, and especially Kendrick Lamar. “Like That” launched one of the biggest feuds in the history of the genre, serving as an impetus for countless diss tracks including what may well be the song of the year. Lamar’s fiery verse alone was so headline-grabbing, you might forget Metro Boomin and Future put together an amazing song around it. In what has amounted to a busy year for Future, he gave one of his best choruses when it mattered most.
“#RICHAXXHAITIAN” is a show of force for Mach-Hommy. Teaming up with Kaytranada’s quick-hitting, colorful production for a second time following 2021’s “$payforhaiti,” the underground rapper showcases his hypnotic flows in his most accessible way yet while staying true to his unparalleled lyrical and thematic depth. 03 Greedo chimes in to make singing along to the hook irresistible.
MIKE has become a staple on year-end lists this decade and 2024 is no different. Teaming up with fellow Brooklyn producer Tony Seltzer, MIKE’s latest project, Pinball, feels like a short and sweet victory lap following the biggest album of his career, Burning Desire. Across just 21 minutes, MIKE bounces over Seltzer’s vibrant, shifting beats for some of his most confidently energetic music yet.
El Cousteau included only one feature on his new album, Merci, Non Merci, but it alone was strong enough to position him among the best of the year. For “Words2LiveBy,” he teamed up with the elusive Earl Sweatshirt to drop a career-best single. Earl’s contribution has been getting ample attention on social media and rightfully so. With politically charged bars like “Free Gaza, we on the corner like Israelites,” mixed with emotional proclamations such as, “I’m not okay, but I’m gon’ be all right,” he takes the song’s title to heart. Cousteau’s verse is nothing to slouch at either with its raspily delivered bars about dodging task forces and smoking more than Bob Marley.
Boldy James & Nicholas Craven – “Penalty of Leadership”
Penalty of Leadership arrived at the start of 2024, a year after Boldy James’ near-fatal car accident that left him with broken vertebrae. The incident is everpresent across the project, whether it be a simple glance at the artwork or recognized through the languished vocals Boldy uses to deliver blunt bars about the incident on tracks like “Brand New Chanel Kicks.” Together with Nicholas Craven’s penchant for finding the perfect sample, Boldy easily dropped one of the best collaborative projects of the year.
Finally following up on their iconic 2016 collaboration, Yes Lawd!, Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge proved why they’ve been able to retain excitement for a sophomore album for nearly a decade with the release of Why Lawd? Over the last eight years, .Paak has honed his craft with the release of several critically acclaimed albums, including the massively successful An Evening With Silk Sonic with Bruno Mars, and the maturity shines through in 2024. The new effort features some of .Paak’s most emotionally candid and vulnerable music yet, while Knxwledge provides a beautifully strung web of production for him to bare his soul across.
This year may have been a bit quieter for Sampha than 2023, but it’s telling that he decided to work with Little Simz for the first single from the deluxe edition of his album, Lahai. “She’s one of my favourite artists,” Sampha said of Simz in a press release caught by Rolling Stone. “Her confidence and creative bravery are so refreshing, it’s amazing to see someone giving so much to their art.” Reworking the original version of “Satellite Business,” Simz joins in to give the track a bolstered level of passion through her existential verse, elevating it to one of the best collaborations of the year.
It’s been a career year for Doechii, who dropped her critically acclaimed third mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, while also lending her talents to songs from high-profile artists such as Tyler, The Creator and Ab-Soul. The effort resulted in several Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist. But before all that, she previewed the year that was to come with her single, “Alter Ego,” with JT. Prophetically, the track kicks open with her emphatic bars announcing the arrival of “Doechii season.”
While 2024 has come and gone without the long-awaited release of ASAP Rocky’s fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb, he has held fans over with some of his best music in years. On “HIGHJACK,” he brags over beautiful backing vocals about his influence in both hip-hop and fashion while noting his marriage to Rihanna. He even seemingly throws a quick jab Drake’s way by referencing the aforementioned, “Like That.” And this is all before Jessica Pratt, who has been having a huge year of her own, fades in to close out the track with some of the best vocals on a hip-hop song this year.
It’s not too often we get to see two hip-hop legends with as much experience as Common and Pete Rock collaborate for an entire album like The Auditorium Vol. 1. On the new project, they work in tandem to recapture the glory days of hip-hop as they see it, with dense lyricism and crisp production. It’s no surprise Common labeled the project the best in his storied discography during an interview ahead of its release.
As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the most memorable sneaker drops of the year. From reimagined classics to huge collaborations, this year’s releases excited sneaker enthusiasts all over the world. These sneakers certainly made 2024 a year to remember, so here’s a look at the best sneakers of 2024.
At number 10, this fan favorite continues to dominate the sneaker scene. Its versatile black-and-white colorway has kept it in heavy rotation all year, with restocks making it accessible to new fans while reaffirming its classic status. Few sneakers have had so many restocks with continuous sell-outs!
Classic basketball-inspired design takes the 9th spot with this New Balance favorite. The clean white leather upper, accented with navy detailing, offers a fresh yet timeless look. Released in May, it seamlessly bridges vintage aesthetics and contemporary trends. Overall, New Balance had a great 2024 and this is one of the best releases yet.
8. Nike Kobe 8 Protro “University Red”
Image via Nike
Taking a prime position on the list, this pair is a celebration of boldness and innovation. Featuring a striking red mesh upper with white accents on the Swoosh and outsole, this sneaker blends performance and style effortlessly. Released earlier this year, it honors Kobe Bryant’s legacy while delivering updated Protro tech for modern comfort and durability. The “University Red” colorway stands out as one of the year’s most electrifying basketball releases.
Taking the 7th spot, Travis Scott’s latest collaboration brought earthy tones and his signature reverse Swoosh to the forefront. Released in September, this design balanced bold aesthetics with everyday wearability, continuing Scott’s trend of creating culturally impactful sneakers. Finally, the Travis Scott and Nike collab seems to have a very bright future as we enter 2025.
The Sporty & Rich x Adidas Samba OG “Olympic” offers a refined take on the timeless Samba silhouette. This collaborative pair celebrates classic aesthetics with a premium white leather upper, complemented by navy and red Three Stripes and a beige suede toe cap. The gum sole adds a vintage feel, tying the design together with subtle sophistication. This is certainly one of the best sneakers of 2024.
5. Awake NY x Jordan Air Ship “University Red”
Image via Nike
This collaboration revives the Jordan Air Ship silhouette with a creamy sail leather upper contrasted by bold university red snakeskin accents on the collar. The textured Swoosh and co-branded detailing add depth to its design, merging Awake NY’s street-style sensibilities with Jordan Brand’s heritage. Also, a pre-aged midsole and outsole complete the vintage aesthetic, delivering an effortlessly stylish look.
4. Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro “Halo”
Image via Nike
Claiming the #4 spot on the list, the Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro “Halo” shines as a standout in 2024. Featuring an all-white knit upper and updated Protro cushioning, this silhouette blends elegance with cutting-edge performance. Further, honoring Kobe Bryant’s legacy, the “Halo” combines style and functionality, making it a must-have for basketball fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
3. Air Jordan 4 RM “Black/Light Bone”
Image via Nike
The Air Jordan 4 RM “Black/Light Bone” earns its spot among the best sneakers of 2024 with its sleek, remastered design. Combining black leather with sail suede overlays, it balances premium materials with iconic details like the Jumpman logo and Nike Air branding. Overall, this modern take on a classic silhouette showcases Jordan Brand’s dedication to quality and innovation.
2. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Mocha”
Image via Nike
Coming in at number 2 on the best sneakers of 2024, the Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Mocha” captivated sneaker enthusiasts with its effortlessly stylish design. The clean white leather base contrasts beautifully with rich black overlays, while the mocha suede heel brings a warm, earthy tone. A black Swoosh and matching laces enhance the minimalistic aesthetic, creating a versatile look that is perfect for any outfit.
1. Air Jordan 3 “Black Cement”
Image via Nike
Finally, topping the best sneakers of the 2024 list, the Air Jordan 3 “Black Cement” redefines timeless appeal. With its iconic elephant print overlays, sleek black leather upper, and classic red accents, this release brings the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern craftsmanship. A fan-favorite since its debut, the “Black Cement” proves why it’s an enduring staple in sneaker culture.
It’s been a lush 2024 for hip-hop thanks to a plethora of storylines. Rap beefs mostly consumed them, as well as one particular mogul’s drastic downfall. But the emergence of dozens upon dozens of artists has been a welcome distraction from all of the drama and animosity. Don’t get us wrong, though. Being in the thick of all of the noise is always exciting. But more than that, being able to put the spotlight on great music and acts that deserve to be heard is what we strive to bring you all.
The mainstream had a great return to form, with Kendrick Lamar, Future, Metro Boomin, and Tyler, The Creator among just a few of them making the most indelible marks. But as we mentioned earlier, the breakout stars were plentiful, and of course, a major key to the genre’s success this year. Around this time in 2023, we highlighted five names who we felt everyone should be watching out for coming into 2024. We targeted ones we felt were slept on and had quietly strong runs. This time though, we are changing things up a bit. Instead, our staff decided that there were five rappers who blew people’s expectations out of the water. So much so, that they are pretty much stars already and are on the cusp of reaching that next level. With that said, here are the five talents that we expect to take that superstar leap next year or sometime soon.
Texas’ hip-hop scene could have a new face in the near future, and his name is BigXthaPlug. The 26-year-old from Dallas really began to grab everyone’s attention in 2023, including XXL, who promptly granted him a spot in this year’s Freshman Class. He was able to build some buzz off of tracks like “Mmhmm,” “Back On My BS,” and “Levels”. His instantly recognizable voice, which sounds like it has its own surround sound already built in, makes him a commanding presence on the mic. He couples that with his straightforward writing and personal storytelling. His sophomore record, Take Care, quickly gained steady interest from fans and critics thanks to the thematic switch-up. Instead of street bangers, it’s all about bettering yourself, taking care of your loved ones, adjusting to success, and weeding out the negativity. It’s also shown he’s got a great ear for soulful and hard-hitting beats, as he’s been developing some chemistry with Tennessee producer, BandPlay. If he can continue to show that artistic growth from his 2023 tapes to Take Care, then BigXthaPlug is going to be around for a while.
BossMan Dlow
Song:“Mr Pot Scraper”
Meet one of hip-hop’s newest hitmakers, BossMan Dlow. His most recent tape, Mr Beat The Road, is chockful of them. “Come Here,” “Get In With Me,” “Mr Pot Scraper,”“Lil Bastard,” and “Talk My S***,” is just the start. He’s made a name for himself for some hilarious punch lines, braggy lyrics, and big ego. His willingness to deviate from his norms is his biggest drawback right now. He sounds great over the skittering Florida hip-hop beats thanks to his unique flow. But BossMan can only keep repeating that formula so many times before it grows old. However, he’s been showing some growth in both of those departments. His most recent single, “The Biggest Pt. 2,” showcases that. He’s got the ability to write catchy trap party tracks, but the variation in their packaging will be what either holds him back or propels him forward.
Doechii
Song:“NISSAN ALTIMA”
Doechii completely floored us in August with the release of her third project and mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal. We did see signs of potential greatness with her house-inspired loosie “Alter Ego” featuring JT. Moreover, we knew she could write some radio-friendly tunes with “What It Is (Block Boy)” ft. Kodak Black back in 2023. But her “Swamp Sessions” on YouTube are what gained the most traction with us. Sure, they were short, with some barely cracking a minute. But the proficiency, charisma, and energy in which she rapped with over some nasty and creative boom bap instrumentals confirmed she was the real deal. From super blunt to serious, to melodic and goofy, she really excels in any tonal setting. She’s quickly turned herself into TDE’s next face of the label and with her recently confirming her debut album for next year, the limitations are pretty much non-existent at this point.
Skilla Baby
Song:“Plate”
No matter how popular, you may have seen Skilla Baby pop up on your favorite MC’s project or single. The Detroit, Michigan native has seemingly been everywhere imaginable in 2024. Maxo Kream, G Herbo, DaBaby, Coi Leray, Doe Boy, and Yung Miami’s newest material includes him in some capacity. However, this high number of collaborations doesn’t stop outside of his feature catalog. His 2024 project, The Coldest, as well as its subsequent deluxe, were packed to the brim with big guests. BossMan Dlow, Rob49, Moneybagg Yo, Flo Milli, and Jeremih, just scratch the surface. Despite his rough and street mentality, he’s shown to tone things down on songs like “Bae,” for example. He’s probably got the most work to do on this list, but the industry clearly sees something in Skilla Baby already.
That Mexican OT
Song:“02.02.99”
Last, but certainly not least, is the second Texan in this grouping, That Mexican OT. You may have heard his song “Johnny Dang” with one of Southern hip-hop’s pioneers, Paul Wall. It was the blip on everyone’s radar that he needed to capitalize on, and he did just that at the top of 2024. “02.02.99,” opened up his run on a very strong note, and it showed that his hitmaking ability was no fluke. Outside of Doechii, he may be the most expressive rapper here. His comedic one liners like, “I ain’t f***ed your sister, b****, I’m just a motherf***er,” and the way he’s able to roll any letter in the alphabet are some of his most endearing qualities. But like BigXthaPlug, he’s also showing high respect to the South and Texas by working with and learning from the legends (Z-Ro, Propain, Slim Thug). That support system is going to go a long way and will help completely shed any sort of doubts left.
Overall, November 2024 was a great month of hip-hop albums, and it was also a month that contained some phenomenal singles. Of course, Ab-Soul, FERG, and many others came through with some projects that fans were certainly expecting. However, it was Kendrick Lamar who completely shook things up when he decided to drop the album GNX out of nowhere. It is a project that has subsequently given way to a tour, which is set to begin in April. Meanwhile, on the singles front, we got some incredible stuff from a plethora of artists, including MIKE, Hi-Tech, and many others. So without further ado, here are our favorites from the last 30 days.
