The Air Jordan 4 was first released in 1989 and has been turning heads ever since. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, this iconic sneaker has seen its fair share of legendary moments, including Michael Jordan’s unforgettable “The Shot” against the Cavaliers. Over the past 25 years, we’ve seen some incredible colorways that have tapped into different styles and materials. Known for its distinctive design elements like the mesh panels and visible Air cushioning, the AJ4 isn’t just a shoe—it’s a cultural icon. As we commemorate this milestone, let’s dive into the top 7 colorways that have defined the legacy of the Air Jordan 4.
The Air Jordan 4 “Oreo” is all about sleek sophistication. With its black leather upper and playful white speckles on the midsole, this sneaker is as versatile as it is stylish. It’s the kind of colorway that’s perfect for both dressing up and keeping things casual. The simple, refined design makes it a timeless favorite, combining classic appeal with a touch of fun. Whether you’re hitting the streets or just kicking back, the “Oreo” is a go-to choice for those who appreciate style.
When you think of the Air Jordan 4 “Thunder,” picture a burst of electricity lighting up your sneaker game. The bold yellow upper paired with sleek black accents creates an electrifying look. This sneaker is all about vibrant energy and fierce style. If you’re the type who loves to turn heads and rock bold colors, the “Thunder” is your perfect shoe. As one of the most iconic colorways, it has defined the Jordan 4 for sure.
5. “Cool Grey”
2019 release, image via Nike
The Air Jordan 4 “Cool Grey” is all about understated style. Its grey tones and simple accents offer a sleek, clean look that works well with just about any outfit. This colorway is idael for those who want a subtle yet stylish sneaker. It updates the classic Air Jordan 4 with a modern touch, making it versatile and easy to wear. If you appreciate a more refined, minimalist approach, the “Cool Grey” is a great option.
The Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue” brings a breath of fresh air with its nice white leather and bold blue accents. This colorway pays homage to military influences while keeping the classic Jordan vibe. It’s a sneaker that mixes heritage with a modern twist, making it a great choice. Originally released in 1989, it returned earlier this year in May, proving it’s still a sought-after sneaker. The “Military Blue” adds a splash of color and character to the Jordan 4 model.
3. “Fire Red”
2012 release, image via Flight Club
The Air Jordan 4 “Fire Red” is a standout with its striking color scheme. The bright red accents against the white leather upper give it a presence that’s hard to miss. Released in 1989, the “Fire Red” made its return in 2012 and again in 2020, proving its timeless appeal. It’s a statement piece that brings vibrant energy and classic style to the Air Jordan 4 lineup.
The Air Jordan 4 “White Cement” is gearing up for a highly anticipated return in 2025. This classic sneaker is all about that iconic look—white leather with grey cement speckles. It’s the perfect mix of style and nostalgia, creating its timeless appeal. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to shoes, the “White Cement” effortlessly blends into any wardrobe, making it a must-have. As it makes its comeback, expect it to bring the same charm that it has for 25 years.
1. “Bred”
2019 release, image via Nike
At the top of our list is the Air Jordan 4 “Bred,” a sneaker that sums up classic Jordan style. The black leather paired with vibrant red accents creates a powerful look. This colorway is synonymous with Michael Jordan’s legendary career, capturing the dominant essence of his on-court presence. The “Bred” is more than just a sneaker; it’s a piece of history that continues to captivate sneaker enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its rich legacy and striking design make it the ultimate must-have in the Air Jordan 4 lineup.
Billie Eilish has cemented herself in pop culture due to her immense talent and ability to connect with audiences through her music. She recently made it onto Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums, an amazing feat for such a young artist. Her debut album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? ranked 30th on the list. Evidently, it’s no question that she is one of the biggest stars of the decade. The rest of her discography is also worth listening to though, so here are all Billie Eilish’s albums and EPs ranked.
After releasing a few singles, including her initial claim to fame “Ocean Eyes,” Billie Eilish released her first EP in 2017. While Don’t Smile At Me was a great project, especially considering that Eilish was just 15 years old at the time, she has only gotten better in the years since then. Don’t Smile At Me included moody tracks like “idontwannabeyouanymore,” as well as more upbeat and experimental tracks like “my boy.” The EP’s balance of ballads and fast-paced songs set the groundwork for the rest of Billie Eilish and Finneas’s work together.
4. Hit Me Hard And Soft
Billie Eilish’s most recent release was shrouded in mystery, as she didn’t follow the typical release schedule before her albums drop. Upon this album’s release, fans were excited to hear some new sounds from Eilish. On Hit Me Hard and Soft, she explored topics of falling out of love, as well as falling in love with a woman for the first time. Songs like “Lunch” were immediately elevated to queer bop status. However, the frequent beat switches on songs in the album often toed the line between hit or miss.
Despite only consisting of two songs, Guitar Songs is some of Billie Eilish’s best work. “TV” touches on the very topical issue of the overturning of Roe V. Wade in the U.S. On the other hand, “The 30th” includes some of Eilish’s most heartbreaking lyrics to date. Her vocals are both soft and striking on both tracks and, as the EP title suggests, the production of the songs is minimal, letting their stories shine.
2. Happier Than Ever
On her sophomore album, Billie Eilish leaned away from the dark aesthetics of her debut, for a more mature and insightful project. Happier Than Ever tackled Eilish’s rise to fame at such a young age, as well as the scrutiny she faced from the media over her body, and her recent breakup at the time. In songs like “Your Power,” she deals with topics of sexuality and its abuse by people in power. Additionally, “My Future” and “Therefore I Am” show her growth and maturity as she gets older. The album’s title track is one of Billie Eilish’s most cathartic songs, as she disparages a deadbeat ex and celebrates her freedom.
1. When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?
Billie Eilish’s debut remains the most beloved and most critically acclaimed of all her albums and EPs. The album was inspired by her experiences with nightmares and lucid dreams and explored themes of mental health, addiction, and teen angst. Notably, tracks like “Bad Guy” and “When The Party’s Over” dominated the charts for weeks. Moreover, the project’s dark and creepy aesthetic, as well as Eilish’s raspy vocals made the album a major stand out. When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? earned Billie Eilish five Grammy wins out of six nominations. Altogether, her raspy singing style matched with Finneas’ production helped usher in a new era of pop music at the time.
Over the past few days, Apple Music unveiled its definitive ranking of the best 100 albums of all time. From groundbreaking debuts to timeless classics, the ranking reflects the diverse sonic landscape that has captivated listeners over the years. As the digital age continues to shape the way we experience music, these albums stand out as cultural touchstones that capture the essence of their respective eras.
While all 100 albums on this list are musical triumphs, Apple Music has been under fire for their selections, especially as the R&B genre was greatly excluded. Moreover, the rankings have also fueled claims of Apple Music pandering to fanbases, instead of respecting art. More importantly, a good number of listeners have criticized the list for “robbing” deserving artists and projects. Nonetheless, here’s a look at the top 10 albums on Apple Music’s top 100 Albums list.
When Beyoncé released her triumphant sixth studio album in 2016, listeners immediately recognized that it was a seminal work. Since its release, Lemonade has been repeatedly recognized as one of the most important albums of this generation. Without a doubt, it is also among the most important albums in Beyoncé’s entire discography that details anger and forgiveness. It is no surprise that this album made it this high on Apple Music’s Best 100 Albums list.
9. Nevermind (1991) – Nirvana
With its raw, unapologetic energy, and the late Kurt Cobain’s deeply emotive songwriting, Nevermind catapulted grunge into the mainstream. Since its release in the early ‘90s, the album has been regarded as a monumental addition to the musical landscape. When Apple Music first began unveiling the best 100 albums, fans knew Nevermind would make the list. It was only a matter of when it would show up, and certainly, fans would have been displeased with anything below the top 10.
Although it’s been over a decade since Amy Winehouse sadly passed away, she lives on through her music. Back To Black is a monumental album, and will continue to be discussed for years to come. The soul-stirring masterpiece redefined contemporary music with its deeply personal lyrics and retro sound. With records like its title track, and the Grammy Award-winning “Rehab,” it’s no wonder this album has the reputation it does. It certainly earned its place on the Apple Music Best 100 Albums list.
Since he released his debut album in 2011, Kendrick Lamar has constantly evolved with each new release. Each project in his discography stands out in its own way, and they are all strong entries. However, good kid, m.A.A.d city, his sophomore studio album,is arguably the rapper’s most impressive project yet. When it dropped in 2012, it shifted the Hip-Hop industry, and Lamar himself. Since then, he has firmly situated himself in the annals of Hip Hop industry. The rapper is now regarded as one of the best MCs of all time, and with an album such as this, rightly so.
6. Songs In The Key Of Life (1976) – Stevie Wonder
Another monumental achievement in music, this phenomenal double album was released on September 26, 1976. Stevie Wonder is a musical genius, and this body of work effectively captures the essence of that genius. It blends R&B, soul, jazz, funk, and pop with intricate melodies and innovative arrangements. Tracks like “Sir Duke,” “I Wish,” and “Isn’t She Lovely” are a few standout classics that showcase Wonder’s unparalleled talent. Over the years, this album has remained widely respected and beloved. It is an evergreen project, so it makes sense for it to rank so highly on the Apple Music Best 100 Albums list, although many believe it should be higher.
Nobody knows if Frank Ocean foresaw how groundbreaking this album would become before he dropped it. On Blonde, the singer seems to do everything right, in his own authentic way. This album redefined the boundaries of contemporary music, with its innovative soundscapes and introspective lyrics. As a result, it is widely celebrated for its ethereal production and genre-blending style. Ocean’s emotive and nuanced vocal delivery makes each track an experience for the listener. He is incredibly vulnerable as he invites us into his world and takes us on a peculiar sonic journey. Blonde is the highest-ranked album from the 21st century on the Apple Music Best 100 Albums list, which has garnered criticism.
4. Purple Rain (1984) – Prince & The Revolution
This iconic album stands as a testament to Prince’s extraordinary talent and visionary artistry. Released in 1984, Purple Rain blends rock, pop, R&B, and funk, creating a unique and electrifying sound that captivated audiences worldwide. Four decades after its release, the eclectic album continues to awe listeners old and new. The title track, in particular, with its soaring guitar solos and emotional depth, has become an unforgettable anthem. Purple Rain remains a timeless classic, and that will not change anytime soon.
3. Abbey Road (1969) – The Beatles
Another undisputed classic, The Beatles’ Abbey Road is the oldest album on the top 10 of the Apple Music Best 100 Albums list. Released in 1969, this album features some of the group’s most beloved and enduring tracks, including “Come Together” and “Here Comes The Sun.” Without a doubt, The Beatles have had a profound impact on the music world. Abbey Road is one of the most influential bodies of work in their extensive catalog. Fans and critics alike expected the band to make an appearance somewhere on top of this list. Being recognized as the third-best album of all time certainly isn’t bad at all.
2. Thriller – Michael Jackson
When Apple Music first revealed that it would be ranking the best 100 albums of all time, music fans knew Thriller would make an appearance. As a matter of fact, many believed the pioneering album would top the list. However, it missed the top spot by a mark, and sits pretty at number two. This unparalleled masterpiece of an album redefined the landscape of pop music and solidified Jackson’s status as the King of Pop. Hit singles like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the title track, set new standards for music videos and pop culture. Thriller’s place on this list is undebatable.
1. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill(1998) – Lauryn Hill
As far as classic albums go, The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill is as evergreen as it gets. This extraordinary album transcends the boundaries of Hip Hop and R&B. Currently Ms. Hill’s sole album, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest solo debut albums of all time. It showcases the artist’s extensive talent as a singer, rapper, and songwriter. The record-breaking album has achieved universal acclaim, and rightly so. It continues to inspire and empower audiences, serving as a testament to Hill’s undying legacy as a trailblazing icon.
Reason and Punch both responded to a fan placing them as the two worst artists on Top Dawg Entertainment for a ranking list on Twitter, on Friday. The full list goes in the following order: Isaiah Rashad; 2. ScHoolboy Q; 3. SiR; 4. SZA; 5. Ab Soul; 6. Jay Rock; 7. Daylyt; 8. Ray Vaughn; 9. Lance Skiiiwalker; 10. Zacari; 11. Punch; 12. Reason. The fan made the list while responding to Reason’s freestyle over the beat for Drake’s “8am in Charlotte.”
In response, Reason wrote: “See man this isn’t fair and I have a problem with this immensely!!! Smh. Like this just proves yall pay no attention to music and what’s going on and I hate it! Smh. I SHOULD BE 13! WHERE IS DOECHII???” He added that he didn’t have an issue with Rashad getting the number one spot. As for Punch, he was most upset with himself not being higher up. “11 is crazy smh. lol,” he wrote.
Isaiah Rashad & Ray Vaughn Perform At TDE’s Christmas Concert
Ray Vaughn and Isaiah Rashad at the 10th Annual TDE Christmas Concert hosted by Top Dawg Entertainment and Jay Rock held on December 19, 2023 in Compton, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Images)
The interaction comes after Punch just recently came to the defense of his label-mate, SZA, on Twitter. When Brian “B.Dot” Miller criticized her track, “Snooze,” Punch called him a “hater.” “You can’t be a hater your whole life champ,” he told the journalist. “You should rebrand. lol.” Check out his and Reason’s latest posts on Twitter below.
Reason & Punch Address The TDE Ranking
See man this isn’t fair and I have a problem with this immensely!!! Smh Like this just proves yall pay no attention to music and what’s going on and I hate it! Smh
Despite his placement on the list, there have been rumors about Reason’s possible departure from TDE in recent weeks. When Drake dropped his Kendrick Lamar diss, “Push Ups,” he wrote in a since-deleted tweet: “Nah this final production CRAZY.” Lamar was famously a member of TDE for most of his career. Be on the lookout for further updates on TDE on HotNewHipHop.
It goes without saying that Lil Wayne’s talent is undeniable. Since the early 2000s, the rapper has been everywhere, cementing himself as a giant with each verse that he dishes out. Truly, he’s an untouchable lyricist. At one point, Lil Wayne was practically on every song, transforming him into the king of features throughout the mid to late aughts. While he has slowed down a bit in the last few years, Lil Wayne is still active and gave out several features in 2023. He always showcases his expertise and versatility, bringing his unparalleled flow and lyrical prowess to collaborations across genres. That’s why, for many, Lil Wayne is the GOAT. Of course, being the veteran that he is, his verses on other artists’ songs elevate them to new heights. Let’s run through all the features Lil Wayne appeared on in 2023, and which one stands above the rest.
19. “My Daddy’s Son” – Dame D.O.L.L.A Ft. Lil Wayne
Professional basketball player and rapper Dame D.O.L.L.A released his fifth studio album Don D.O.L.L.A on August 18, 2023. While the project has many great songs, “My Daddy’s Son” evidently stands out as one of its best tracks. On his verse, Lil Wayne is a beast, riding the beat and almost leaving Dame in the dust.
18. “Shoulder Pads” – AB Ft. Lil Wayne
Former NFL player Antonio Brown has been releasing music as AB since 2020. For his 2023 offering, he features Lil Wayne on the fire track “Shoulder Pads.” Although he does his best on the song, AB is totally upstaged by Tunechi when he comes on.
17. “Da One” – Dame D.O.L.L.A Ft. Lil Wayne
“Da One” is another track from the pro basketball player’s 2023 album that features Lil Wayne. Just like he did on “My Daddy’s Son,” Tunechi absolutely devours his verse. It is a testament to his prowess that the two tracks he appears on are among the album’s most memorable songs.
16. “I’m Mad At Me” – Trippie Redd Ft. Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne was on a mission with his features throughout 2023, and he took no prisoners. “I’m Mad At Me” is a track on Trippie Reed’s 2023 mixtape A Love Letter To You 5, and sees both Redd and Wayne dropping hard bars. The rappers’ chemistry on the track is effortless and certainly worthy of note. We hope they collaborate more in the future.
On September 29, 2023, Tyga and YG released their collaborative album Hit Me When U Leave the Klub: The Playlist. However, two days before, the pair released “Brand New” as the fourth single from the project. It is one of only three songs on the album with a featured artist, and arguably the best of all three. Once again, Lil Wayne flexed on the owners of the song, upstaging them in less than a minute while receiving high praise from Eminem over that Funyun bar.
14. “FMFU” – DJ Drama ft. Lil Wayne, Roddy Ricch, & Gucci Mane
“FMFU” was released on March 31, 2023, as a part of DJ Drama’s album,I’m Really Like That. The album contains 14 tracks, and “FMFU” is certainly one of its standouts, primarily because of the performance of its featured artists. Roddy Ricch, Gucci Mane, and Lil Wayne all delivered on their respective parts. The only reason this song isn’t ranked higher is because the tracks that appear above it are just better songs overall. Nevertheless, despite its position, it’s a pretty good song.
13. “Ain’t Gonna Answer” – NLE Choppa ft. Lil Wayne
Featuring Lil Wayne on this track, NLE Choppa must have known he had to go as hard as he could. The Memphis rapper, riding the sample of Lil Wayne and Birdman’s “Stuntin Like My Daddy” just right, takes on the first half of the song. To his credit, he serves up good verses, matching the energy of the beat, and laying the groundwork for Lil Wayne to make his entrance. Halfway into the track, Tunechi takes the baton from Choppa and eats up his verse. With his part lasting about a minute, Lil Wayne has enough time to shine, and that’s exactly what he does on “Ain’t Gonna Answer.“
12. “The Formula” – Will.i.am ft. Lil Wayne
Will.i.am released “The Formula” in partnership with Formula 1 on May 5, 2023. A musical icon himself, the Black Eyed Peas frontman enlisted Lil Wayne’s help on the catchy song. Without a doubt, Wayne’s verse is one of the best parts of the track. It may not be among his very best features of the year, but it’s a solid verse nevertheless.
11. “Gladiator (Remix)” – Eladio Carrión Ft. Lil Wayne
This is track #2 on Eladio Carrión’s 18-track album, 3MEN2 KBRN, that was released on March 17, 2023. Carrión makes Latin trap music, and this song exemplifies his expertise in the genre. Being that he is immensely versatile, however, Wayne is not left behind on the track. While Carrión effortlessly glides through the beat spitting fluid Latin bars, Wayne equally delivers a stellar verse mostly in English, but with a little Latin of his own.
10. “Big Dog” – Benny the Butcher Ft. Lil Wayne
Featuring one of Hip Hop’s biggest dogs, this song is aptly named. The song was released on November 3, 2023, and is a single from Benny the Butcher’s upcoming album Everybody Can’t Go. Despite not appearing on charts, it is currently one of Benny’s biggest songs, and rightly so. Coupled with Lil Wayne’s stellar verse on the track, Benny’s verse and hook make “Big Dog” a great song.
9. “This Sh*t Right Here” – Swizz Beatz Ft. Lil Wayne
Released on April 21, 2023, “This Sh*t Right Here” is a track on Swizz Beatz’s EP Hip Hop 50: Vol. 2. Throughout the track’s almost three-minute run, Lil Wayne goes off on the beat, having fun with it. Tracks like this one remind us that even at his most playful, Tunechi is not an MC to be trifled with. Swizz’ EP is laced with great tunes, but this one holds the most weight.
8. “El Niño” – Big Freedia Ft. Lil Wayne & Boyfriend
Big Freedia released “El Niño” as the fourth single from Central City on June 19, 2023. With a catchy hook and energetic beat, the song is quite a memorable one. However, Lil Wayne’s verse undoubtedly elevated the track. While Big Freedia and Boyfriend snapped on their parts, Lil Wayne’s verse is arguably the standout performance on the track.
You can almost never go wrong with a pairing like this. Mario, an R&B icon, carried this song with his catchy hook. Likewise, Tyga delivered on his part, dropping an equally memorable verse. Finally, Lil Wayne, with a stellar 30-second verse, tied it all together. All three performers on this track brought their A-game, and that’s why it’s such a great song.
6. “Annihilate” – Metro Boomin ft. Lil Wayne, Swae Lee, & Offset
Following the critically acclaimed first film released in 2018, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse was finally released in 2023. The soundtrack album that accompanied the film dropped on June 2, 2023, and “Annihilate” is one of its standout tracks. The combination of Lil Wayne, Swae Lee, and Offset on a Metro Boomin beat was a great idea. Indeed, whoever thought to pair them together deserves some sort of raise. Although Lil Tunechi has arguably the best verse on the song, Swae Lee certainly deserves props for a great hook. Likewise, Offset and Metro Boomin for a great verse and production, respectively.
5. “How We Roll (Remix)” – Ciara & Chris Brown Ft. Lil Wayne
“How We Roll” was originally released on August 4, 2023 as a single from Ciara’s EP, CiCi. Subsequently, on November 3, 2023, the remix featuring Lil Wayne was dropped, and it is one of his best features this year. On the remix, Tunechi takes the first verse, and he absolutely murks it, almost making it hard for Ciara and Chris Brown to match.
4. “RNB” – Nicki Minaj ft. Lil Wayne & Tate Kobang
One of the overall best tracks with features in 2023, “RNB” is a song off Nicki Minaj’s long-awaited fifth album, Pink Friday 2. The Queen of Rap, as expected, brought the heat on the song, and Lil Wayne did not relent either. Although his verse only lasts about 30 seconds, it is memorable. Moreover, and to his credit, Tate Kobang was also not obscure on the track, despite appearing beside two Hip Hop legends.
3. “Hallelujah Heaven” – Jeymes Samuel Ft. Lil Wayne, Buju Banton, & Shabba Ranks
The lead single from the upcoming film The Book Of Clarence, “Hallelujah Heaven” was released on November 28, 2023. Until the movie finally premieres in theaters, fans can listen to this track while they wait. The Gospel-infused track sees Lil Wayne delivering yet another fire verse. While his collaborators also eat, Lil Wayne’s verse is undoubtedly the star of the show on this track.
2. “Uneasy” – Jon Batiste ft. Lil Wayne
While they may make an unlikely pairing, Lil Wayne and Jon Batiste are a musical match made in heaven on this song. It’s always fulfilling to see collaborators on a song bring their A-game and lay it all out. On “Uneasy,” that’s exactly what these two musicians do. Indeed, throughout 2023, Lil Wayne delivered many great features. However, “Uneasy” is easily one of the best of them all. Besides his insane verse, the rapper also graces fans with a short electric guitar interlude that comes right before Batiste takes us to church on the piano. The two musicians exhibit beautiful chemistry and both have unforgettable verses on this track.
1. “Never Die” – Nas Ft. Lil Wayne
Rap icon Nas released his seventeenth studio album Magic 3 on September 14, 2023. The 15-track album only contains one feature, and it’s from none other than Lil Wayne. On “Never Die,” the two rap giants trade scorching hot bars, and listeners are reminded why they’ve remained relevant in Hip Hop all these years. Undoubtedly, this is among the best features Lil Wayne appeared on in 2023, and overall.
Nicki Minaj recently sat down for a very enlightening interview with Joe Budden, one that finally cleared up one of her new album Pink Friday 2‘s most memorable lyrics. “Stay in your Tory lane, b***h, I’m not Iggy,” she rapped on the cut “FTCU,” a pointed reference to both artists’ working relationship, collaborative history, the letter that Azalea wrote in support of Lanez, and possibly a Megan Thee Stallion diss. Given how much this bar stood out, we’re not surprised that the Slaughterhouse MC wanted to dive deeper in. When Joe asked, the Trinidadian rapper turned the question on him to see if his interpretation is on the right track.
“Well, it could be shade to a few people,” Joe Budden began. “Without saying if you think the shade is in mind, what do you think the line itself means?” Nicki Minaj clapped back. “‘I’m not one of them,’ that’s what I think it means,” he replied. “And I think it was a clever way to say that.” “Yeah! Thank you,” she responded, although she seemed comically taken aback by his laughter right after. “I really appreciate me getting a compliment from Mr. Buddens! I’m taking it.” “I liked your last album!” Joe hilariously defended, to which Nicki said that even she doesn’t like that album.
Elsewhere, she also spoke a little bit more on Queen indirectly via social media on Friday (December 22). Moreover, Nicki Minaj provided her “honest ranking” of all her albums on Twitter, which may surprise folks. “Ok here’s my honest ranking,” she began. “1. Pink Friday 2. 2. The Pinkprint. 3. QUEEN. 4. Pink Friday. 5. Pink Friday Roman Reloaded (The Re-Up). But I truly respect all gag city resident opinions. What the albums mean to you is your own truth based on where you were in your own life.” Considering that the 41-year-old apparently doesn’t even like Queen, this insinuation that she doesn’t like Pink Friday might be the reason she wanted to make whatever she wanted to make on its sequel.
Nicki Minaj Ranks Her Albums
Ok here’s my honest ranking
1. Pink Friday 2 2. The Pinkprint 3. QUEEN 4. Pink Friday 5. Pink Friday Roman Reloaded (The Re-Up)
But I truly respect all gag city resident opinions. What the albums mean to you is your own truth based on where you were in your own life.
Meanwhile, these comments on the Tory and Iggy bar are interesting considering other comments during this interview on her appreciation for female rappers. Surely the coming days and weeks will bring us more revelations and statements in this vein from someone so connected to their fanbase. We can’t wait to see how the new year shapes up for the Queen. For more news and the latest updates on Nicki Minaj, come back to HNHH.
After an impressive run of guest verses in 2022, J. Cole continued his reign as one of hip hop’s feature kings throughout 2023. Despite not releasing an album, he had a prolific year, appearing on tracks with a range of artists. This year in particular, he branched out to work with a wide variety of names, many of which for the very first time. Cole has shown that he can outshine almost anybody on a song. His latest run of guest verses this year built even more anticipation for his upcoming seventh studio album, The Fall Off, which he alluded to in his bars throughout the year. Today, we are ranking each of J. Cole’s guest features in 2023 from worst to best. Take a look at the list below.
J. Cole has teamed up with some unlikely names before, but his feature on Gucci Mane’s “There I Go” was certainly unexpected. Over an instrumental produced by Mike Will Made-It, he sets the tone with a short verse, riding the beat with ease. The upbeat and non-serious nature of the track is not as lyrically competitive compared to J. Cole’s other guest verses. A fun highlight from Gucci Mane’s Breath of Fresh Air, “There I Go” ultimately ranks last in the scheme of J. Cole’s features from 2023.
9. Bas – “Passport Bros”
“Passport Bros” is the latest track from frequent J. Cole collaborator and Dreamville signee, Bas. The two have an exciting history of collaborations, including “My N***a Just Made Bail” and “Night Job.” Bas’s latest J. Cole-featuring track, “Passport Bros” sees the two rapping over an amapiano-laced instrumental. Bas melodically raps two short verses and the song’s chorus while Cole spits a longer verse. He flexes his vacation destinations, including Barcelona, London, and Miami. While declaring himself and Bas as the “passport bros,” Cole clarifies that they “ain’t shelling out cash for hoes.” J. Cole’s most light-hearted feature of the year makes for a pleasant team-up between him and Bas. In addition to “Passport Bros,” the Dreamville signee’s upcoming album includes two other J. Cole features. We Only Talk About Real Shit When We’re Fucked Up drops this Friday, so we will see how Cole’s other verses stack up.
8. Burna Boy – “Thanks”
Appearing at the end of I Told Them…, Burna Boy and J. Cole express frustrations with criticisms that they receive as a result of fame. Burna asks, “Is this the motherfuckin’ thanks I get for makin’ my people proud every chance I get?” and reminds critics that he “gave you Afrofusion.” Cole expresses similar sentiments in his verse, rapping that he “fathered a couple styles” and that he is “forever cemented” in hip hop unlike many of his contemporaries. Lyrically, he both celebrates his success while separating himself from other rappers, likening himself and Burna Boy to “Shaq and Kobe.” Sitting at the top of their respective genres, Burna Boy and J. Cole share a mutual respect for one another on “Thanks.”
7. Summer Walker – “To Summer, From Cole” (Audio Hug)”
J. Cole opened Summer Walker’s Clear 2: Soft Life EP, writing a candid letter directly to the R&B songstress. He expresses his support and gratitude to Summer Walker, thanking her for wanting a verse from him and congratulating her on the birth of her twins. In his verse, Cole also admires her for how she balances motherhood, artistry, and fame. The laid-back delivery of the verse does not require intricate rhyme patterns or entendres but instead works as an act of kindness to an artist he respects. Extending his love to Walker’s peers like SZA and Ari Lennox, J. Cole feels that they “are holdin’ the crowns” for R&B and encourages them to reach out to him if necessary. Cole’s verse is a sweet act of reassurance, conveying that he is there for Summer Walker when she “needs some love.”
A highlight from Nicki Minaj’s latest album, Pink Friday 2, “Let Me Calm Down” is the very first time that she and J. Cole have worked together. They both rap about their respective struggles within relationships. J. Cole specifically channels these experiences into life lessons. He raps, “So if you love her, then you gotta learn to play your part,” speaking to the importance of being a loyal partner. Cole also alludes to his “Jada and that Will love” lyric from “No Role Modelz” to depict how couples can overcome their turbulent moments. While not punchline-oriented, “Let Me Calm Down” is one of J. Cole’s more personal feature verses of 2023.
This year, J. Cole joined Lil Durk on “All My Life,” an uplifting song with a children’s choir handling the hook. During his verse, which is noticeably longer than Durk’s, J. Cole effortlessly transitions between subjects. He raps about overcoming obstacles and making it out of the city with his “head on straight.” Cole also puts things in perspective, humbling people with the reminder that “this shit could be gone in an instant.” Additionally, he discusses the tragic deaths of rappers and considers thoughts of retirement as a result. In this excellent verse, he even makes time to flex his rap skills, rapping punchlines like “The shit I spit out is a cheat code like I’m facing a RICO / and how a n***a put a hit out.” A well-rounded guest feature, J. Cole showcases his lyrical ability while uplifting the next generation.
4. J-Hope – “On The Street”
J. Cole and J-Hope of BTS were an unexpected match when they teamed up for “On The Street.” A motivational hip hop track, both he and Cole rap about overcoming challenges and personal struggles. J. Cole specifically steals the show with his verse, rapping about his journey to success, his belief in a higher power, and his commitment to the game.
Much like his verse on “All My Life,” he ponders retirement, likening his relationship with rapping to a father’s role at his daughter’s wedding. “I’m deep in with this rappin’, it’s all a n***a know / I never did nothin’ better, it’s hard to let it go,” he raps. “But like a father watching his daughter/ Walk down the altar with tears in his eyes/ You gotta let her grow.” For now, J. Cole is not letting go of rapping any time soon. “I contemplate if I should wait to hand over the crown / And stick around for a bit longer, I got a strange type of hunger,” he declares. One of his many impressive verses this year, “On The Street” sees J. Cole speaking from a reflective frame of mind.
3. Drake – “First Person Shooter”
“First Person Shooter” was an instant favorite from Drake’s For All the Dogs. The fiery track is Drake and Cole’s first collaboration since “Jodeci Freestyle” and did not disappoint in the slightest. The two declare that they are as “big as the Super Bowl” and J. Cole raises the lyrical bar high. He weaves between flows, flexing his rapping skills while shouting out NBA YoungBoy and Kendrick Lamar. J. Cole declares himself as “the GOAT with the golden pen, the top toucher.” He also likens his relationship with Drake to the famous Spider-Man meme as they reach stadium status for their upcoming tour. “I’m namin’ the album The Fall Off, it’s pretty ironic ’cause it ain’t no fall off for me,” he raps, hinting at his next album while continuing his impeccable run of guest features in 2023.
2. Drake – “Evil Ways”
J. Cole also features on “Evil Ways,” one of his best verses of 2023 and an instant standout from Drake’s latest batch of bars. A mellow track compared to “First Person Shooter,” the two trade lyrics in spirited competition. While not a singular guest verse like his other 2023 features, J. Cole floats over the soulful instrumental, rapping some of his toughest bars of the year. He spits some of his best punchlines, including lines like, “My paper folded like when teachers don’t want classmates to see your grade.”
Cole also brilliantly alludes to his and Drake’s upcoming tour with this clever bar: “Coke got they nose bleedin’ like the seats where you can’t see the stage / High up in arenas where they see their faves / AKA me and Drizzy Drake, we the wave.” J. Cole and Drake make a great team as they bring the best out of each other. However, it is Cole who specifically leads the charge on this track.
J. Cole and Lil Yachty were an out-of-the-box duo this year on “The Secret Recipe,” a standalone track dedicated to showcasing their lyrical skills. Yachty puts his best foot forward in his verse, favoring a more traditional rap style compared to his usual auto-tuned melodies. His verse sets up J. Cole to spit a masterclass of a verse and easily his best feature of 2023. Beyond his skillful punchlines and entendres, what is most impressive about Cole’s performance is that he maintains a multi-syllabic rhyme scheme throughout the 2-minute verse.
Hungry for bars, he boasts his impressive feature run that boosts streams of other artists while simultaneously outshining them. J. Cole likens his impact to Drake’s, rapping “I’m on your song, your streams goin’ up, not quite the Drake effect / But don’t complain, bitch, take what you get and cut the label check / My table set, I dine on your favorite, one verse’ll take his breath.” He also calls out performative social media activists, rappers who lie, and those who make empty threats. J. Cole’s in rare form on “The Secret Recipe.” He silences the competition while also uplifting younger artists like Lil Yachty. Cole closes his best jaw-dropping feature of 2023: “Signed, the greatest yet.”
Lil Baby’s impressive catalog of singles, albums, and mixtapes has propelled him to greater fame. The artist has progressively grown since he debuted with his first mixtape, Perfect Timing, in 2017. Since then, the 28-year-old has repeatedly proven to the world that he is a mainstay as far as contemporary Hip Hop is concerned. Although it may be comparatively small, Lil Baby’s discography consists of what many would argue are modern-day classics.
Lil Baby is currently one of the most successful new-gen rappers around, carving a truly impressive track record with critically acclaimed bodies of work, and chart-topping hits trailing in his wake. Whether mixtapes or official albums, each project under his belt is remarkable in its own right. However, in his growing discography, some of his works far outshine the others. While fans prep for new music, it’s only right to celebrate his string of successful projects.
Perfect Timing was Lil Baby’s debut mixtape and marked his introduction to the Hip Hop scene. It was released on April 14, 2017, and was amicably received by listeners. It was only the start for Lil Baby yet he showed great potential on this mixtape that he would hone into on later albums. Regardless, he delivered like a pro on just about every song on Perfect Timing. Although it didn’t necessarily achieve great commercial success, it created a foundation for Lil Baby to build on. The popularity of the mixtape grew and put a spotlight on Lil Baby for his eventual ascent into the mainstream. The 12-track mixtape has a couple of standout tracks, particularly: “For You,” “Option,” and “Up” ft. Gunna and Lil Duke.
This is the last of four mixtapes Lil Baby released in 2017, following Perfect Timing, Harder Than Hard, and 2 The Hard Way (with Marlo). Lil Baby had steadily built momentum with his previous releases, so upon its release, Too Hard achieved significant commercial success. Consequently, it was his only project from 2017 to chart on the Billboard 200, peaking at number 80. The project had a handful of guest appearances, including Gunna and Lil Yachty, among others.
Before his debut studio album, Lil Baby made his grand entrance into the music scene in 2017, releasing four mixtapes. However, Harder Than Hard, his second mixtape of the year, is a testament to his abilities. Released on July 18, 2017, Harder Than Hard is an underrated gem in the rapper’s musical arsenal. Despite not being as commercially successful as the aforementioned Too Hard, Harder Than Hard is arguably the better project. The 12-track mixtape is masterfully put together and doesn’t rely on any filler tracks. It showcases Lil Baby’s immense rap talents, and the handful of featured artists hold their own as well.
Lil Baby released It’s Only Me, one of his most commercially successful albums, in 2022. It is the rapper’s third and most recent album, as well as one of his best projects overall. With 23 songs and a runtime that barely exceeds an hour, Lil Baby crafts a strong follow-up to his break-out album, My Turn. Although the album ranks the lowest amongst the three official albums in his discography so far, It’s Only Me is by no means a disappointment.
Street Gossip is an essential project from Lil Baby’s discography. It was released on November 30, 2018, at a time when he was quickly rising to prominence in the Hip Hop scene. Here, Lil Baby offers a cohesion that would eventually become a mainstay in his later albums. Street Gossip was praised for its production, timelessness, and overall musical direction. It is considered by many to be amongst Baby’s very best projects, and built upon the success of his debut album, Harder Than Ever. Furthermore, its acclaim helped to set the stage for his future successes. Street Gossip features collaborations with many prominent artists. These include Meek Mill, Gunna, 2 Chainz, and Young Thug, among others. Standout tracks from the project include: “Pure Cocaine,” “Time” ft. Meek Mill, and “Realist In It” ft. Gucci Mane and Offset.
2018 was a great year for the rapper, and saw the release of two of his strongest projects to date. Harder Than Ever, his debut studio album, sees Lil Baby at some of his finest. It was released on May 18, 2018, six months before the release of Street Gossip. True to its title, Harder Than Ever saw Lil Baby in rare form, delivering one of the most impressive rap albums of 2018. Lyrically, the album touches on themes such as street life, personal struggles, and success. Additionally, Lil Baby convincingly conveys every message he intends, creating one of the year’s most lauded albums. Harder Than Ever received positive reviews from both critics and fans alike. Also, it achieved considerable commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard 200 chart. Evidently, this helped establish Lil Baby as a rising star in the rap scene. Some standout tracks from the album include “Yes Indeed” with Drake, “Southside,” and “Transporter,” with Offset.
Widely considered the best of all his albums, Lil Baby received overwhelming fan love after releasing My Turn. His 20-track sophomore studio album went on to become a massive commercial and critical success that established Baby as a leading voice in contemporary Hip Hop. My Turn received two Grammy nominations in 2021 and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Lil Baby also achieved his highest certifications, resulting in one of the best-selling albums of 2020. So far, it has been certified 4x Platinum by the RIAA. Lil Baby’s discography remains a goldmine for fans of trap, as well as contemporary rap. However, My Turn is undeniably the biggest standout solo project the rapper has at the moment.
Rakim reacted to Outkast landing at the top spot on Billboard‘s “Greatest Rap Groups of All Time” list over Eric B. & Rakim during an interview with TMZ on Friday. Speaking with the outlet in New York, the legendary rapper praised Big Boi and Andre 3000 for “pushing the envelope.”
“Nah mean, I’m always gonna say I shoulda been higher but it’s a blessing to be recognized and it’s a good time to be recognized as well,” Rakim said. “It’s not really my place to say who else deserves or not, but Outkast pushed the envelope, a group that a lot of people got love for. So, you know we have to give the flowers to who earns them.”
LOS ANGELES – FEBRUARY 8: Musical Artists Big Boi (left) and Andre 3000 of Oukast pose with their six Grammys backstage in the Pressroom at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards held on February 8, 2004 at the Staples Center, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)
In the end, Billboard ranked Eric B. and Rakim at No. 7 on the list, one spot behind Public Enemy. As for the top five, it featured Run-D.M.C. at No. 5, A Tribe Called Quest at No. 4, N.W.A at No. 3 and Wu-Tang Clan at No. 2, all before Outkast at No. 1. In the piece, Billboard explained the considerations that went into the decision-making. “Our definition of groups includes duos, proper groups and more nebulous collectives. Most notably, inclusion on this list is based on the accomplishments of the group as a unit — not what the individuals may have separately accomplished. We tried to walk the line between what constitutes a group versus a collective or a crew, though at times that was not entirely clear,” the publication explained.
Rakim Reacts To Billboard’s List
Despite their popularity, it appears that Outkast won’t be reuniting anytime soon. Also speaking with TMZ, the group’s frequent collaborator, Sleepy Brown, told the outlet: “Nah, they not. [Andre 3000] is on a-whole-nother journey and he’s, you know, doing something. But me and Big [Boi] are still doing tours and stuff like that. Don’t hold your breath for no OutKast reunion. Don’t do it to yourself. It’s not gon’ happen, folks. If you wanna see us, we gon’ be Dungeon Family. That’s about it.”
God of War is a video game franchise that debuted in 2005. The series follows the story of Kratos, a Spartan warrior who battles against the gods of Greek mythology. Over the years, the franchise has grown to include multiple sequels, spin-offs, and remasters. In this article, we will be ranking the best God of War games, based on factors such as gameplay, graphics, story, and overall enjoyment.
8. Betrayal (2007)
God of War: Betrayal is a mobile side-scrolling platformer game that follows Kratos on his quest for revenge against those who have betrayed him. The game features simple yet effective graphics and gameplay, making it a fun distraction for fans of the franchise on the go.
However, the game’s biggest fault is its brevity — it can be completed in just a few hours, leaving players wanting more. Additionally, the game’s controls can be clunky at times. This aspect, in particular, is frustrating to navigate certain sections. The story is also not as strong as other games in the franchise and lacks the epic scale and emotional depth that fans have come to expect from the series. Overall, God of War: Betrayal is a fun but forgettable addition to the franchise.
7. Ascension (2013)
God of War: Ascension is a prequel to the acclaimed God of War franchise, which sees Kratos attempting to break his allegiance from the God of War, Ares. The game features the signature hack-and-slash gameplay with the addition of new abilities and weapons. The graphics and sound design are impressive, and the story sheds new light on Kratos’ backstory.
Despite the good points for lore, the game has been criticized for its lackluster storyline and uninspired level design. The pacing can also be inconsistent, with extended periods of exploration and puzzle-solving between action sequences. The multiplayer mode, while an interesting addition, fails to engage players to the same extent as the campaign. Overall, God of War: Ascension is a solid entry in the franchise, but falls short of the high bar set by its predecessors.
6. Ghost of Sparta (2010)
God of War: Ghost of Sparta follows Kratos as he searches for his brother Deimos, who was taken by the gods. The game takes place between the events of the original God of War and its sequel and adds a lot of depth to Kratos’ character. The gameplay is as satisfying as ever, with brutal combat and satisfying puzzles.
There are some negative bits that took this title further down the list. The camera can be frustrating at times, making it difficult to see enemies or obstacles. The game also has some pacing issues, with some sections feeling too long or too short. The story can also be confusing at times, especially for players who are not familiar with the series.
5. Chains Of Olympus (2008)
God of War: Chains of Olympus is a prequel to the franchise, released for the PlayStation Portable in 2008. This particular God Of War installment follows Kratos as he battles monsters and gods to save the city of Attica from destruction. The story is one of the strongest in the franchise, exploring Kratos’ character and backstory in depth.
The game’s graphics are impressive for the time, and the gameplay is as satisfying as ever with new weapons and abilities to unlock. However, the game’s length is on the shorter side, and some players may find it too easy compared to other games in the series. Additionally, the camera can be frustrating at times, and some of the puzzles can be repetitive. Despite these faults, God of War: Chains of Olympus is a must-play for fans of the franchise. Fans consider it one of the best games on the PlayStation Portable.
4. God Of War III (2010)
God of War III is an action-packed, hack-and-slash video game that follows the journey of Kratos’s quest for revenge against the gods of Olympus. With some of the most impressive graphics and scale ever seen on the PlayStation 3, the game offers a thrilling, epic adventure filled with brutal battles and gory executions.
However, the game’s storytelling and character development aren’t up to par with other entries in the franchise. Some players have also criticized the game’s reliance on quick-time events and repetitive gameplay. Additionally, the game faced backlash for its depiction of women and minorities as being overly sexualized and stereotypical.
3. God Of War II (2007)
Fans widely regard God Of War II as one of the best games in the franchise. The game follows Kratos as he seeks revenge against the gods of Olympus, and features improved graphics, more varied gameplay, and a more engaging story than its predecessor. The epic and brutal journey of Kratos to overthrow the gods of Olympus makes for a great and engaging story. With a more varied and satisfying combat system with new weapons and abilities, players can engage in more complex gameplay. The game comes with impressive graphics and level design, with larger and more complex environments. Boss battles are challenging and rewarding, not to mention pretty fair.
However, the game does have a few faults. Some players might find the difficulty level to be too high, especially during some of the boss battles. The game’s pacing can be inconsistent, with some sections feeling slow and others feeling rushed. Other players might feel that the game is too similar to the original, without offering enough new content or innovation.
2. God of War (2018)
God of War (2018) is a soft reboot of the popular video game franchise, set in Norse mythology instead of Greek. The game follows an older Kratos, who must teach his son Atreus the ways of the world while battling against gods and monsters. The game features a new combat system, as well as an over-the-shoulder camera perspective, adding a new layer to the gameplay. The story is one of the strongest in the franchise, with well-developed characters and emotional moments that will stick with players long after they finish the game. The graphics and sound design are also top-notch.
However, the game has its downfalls. The pacing can be slow at times, with tedious stretches of exploration and puzzle-solving. The game’s RPG elements are also a bit shallow, with limited customization options and gear upgrades. Finally, some players may be disappointed by the lack of variety in enemy types. Despite these faults, God of War (2018) is a must-play game for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. Its engaging story, immersive gameplay, and stunning graphics make it one of the best games of its generation.
1. God of War: Ragnarok
God of War: Ragnarok continues the story of Kratos and his son Atreus. Released in November 2022, the game promises to deliver a bigger and more ambitious adventure than its predecessor, with a focus on exploring the world and its characters.
The game boasts impressive graphics and a compelling narrative, with a strong emphasis on character development and exploration. The studio refined and improved the combat with new abilities and weapons to master. Additionally, the game delves deeper into Norse mythology and features a diverse cast of characters. God of War: Ragnarok has the potential to be a thrilling and immersive gaming experience and lives up to fans’ expectations so far.
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