AllMusic 2017 Year in Review
Favorite Rap and Hip-Hop Albums
Several of the year's finest rap and hip-hop albums came from its biggest stars, including Jay-Z's confessional 4:44, Kendrick Lamar's simultaneously mainstream-appeasing and thoughtfully-layered DAMN., and the powerful third album from dynamic duo Run the Jewels.
Despite its slapdash presentation, this is a career high from the Grammy-winning veteran rapper.
The sequel to their 2016 debut features an all-star cast of guests as well as dense verses from Mob members.
The Detroit rapper's fourth full-length is a significant evolution in terms of depth, maturity, and self-awareness.
All the Beauty in This Whole Life
After a five-year break, the prophetic, socially conscious rapper returns with a message that hits with the hammer of compassion.
Sophomore set from the Miami rapper whose intricate wordplay and engrossing storytelling place him levels ahead of his contemporaries.
Returning to the hardcore sound of his early work, Raskit is a stark about-face from grime originator Dizzee Rascal, and his most arresting work in ages.
After 2016's Asphalt for Eden, the revamped lineup of New Jersey noise rap pioneers Dälek hits full stride with the triumphant follow-up.
Elegant and uplifting third "beat tape"-styled album of sample-heavy instrumentals from the London-based producer.
The second of two chart-topping albums released back to back in consecutive weeks, this is the introspective, brooding sibling of the pair.
On his 11th LP and ninth post-prison release, the Atlanta rapper delivers one of his best efforts.
Stylistically diverse full-length debut that finds the rapper thoughtfully tackling issues from relationship drama to societal ills.
Shawn Carter's contrite and concise 13th studio album, produced by No I.D. with soulful finesse.
![All-Amerikkkan Bada$$ [With Book]](https://rovimusic.rovicorp.com/image.jpg?c=7L_4JCnmo4H8n5Qqpyu4ld_M69_UI9rrJSVvWL2-yAg=&f=4)
All-Amerikkkan Bada$$ [With Book]
Urgent sophomore set from the Brooklyn MC that honors the sounds of the golden era and takes aim at America's injustices.
Plainspoken poeticism and downcast productions from the L.A. rapper/producer and associates, including Jameel Bruner and Low Leaf.
Second delightfully distorted batch of crate-digging finds from the accomplished drummer and producer.
Pared as it might seem, the rapper's fourth proper album is just as rich as the platinum releases that preceded it.
Official full-length debut from the unique Philadelphia rapper that bridges hedonism and vulnerability.
The rapper's third proper Def Jam album, his most panoramic and personal work, deals with prejudice, anxiety, and spirituality.
After finding multi-platinum pop success with Ryan Lewis, the Seattle rapper returns to his solo rap roots with this sophomore effort.
Sophomore LP from the north Atlanta trio that signals their mainstream arrival with next-level production and the ubiquitous "Bad and Boujee."
The California rapper's tenth solo set is yet another endearing and entertaining showcase for his witty rhymes and moving reports from the streets.
Chart-topping third album from the Michigan rapper that delivers more of his intense, complex rhymes without cursing or profanity.
Although smooth and soulful on the surface, The Iceberg encourages you to look deeper for the greatest rewards.
Exceptional second proper album from the super-skilled down-to-earth rapper, supported as usual by 9th Wonder and the Soul Council.
The third installment in the duo's excellent catalog is their best to date, packed with agile wordplay, inspired guests, and tight production.
Released two years after his death, Sean Price's posthumous fourth album honors his legacy and stands up to his prior work.
Quazarz vs. The Jealous Machines
Present-day dystopian sci-fi and murky funk on one of two simultaneously released albums from the left-field duo.
Tight dose of dark, thrilling grime from the U.K. MC with guests like Lil B, A$AP Rocky, and Section Boyz.
Although featuring plenty of hostility and bravado, the album unfolds with touches of gospel and R&B that reveal Stormzy's inner workings.
Solo album eight includes some of the veteran rapper's most incisive work over beats from the Alchemist, Oh No, and Kaytranada.
An open-hearted, vulnerable, and wide-scoped creative leap from the self-produced Odd Future co-founder.
Remarkable proper debut from the multidimensional Grammy-nominated Roc Nation signee.
Long Beach rapper's sophomore LP features an impressive list of guests on a footwork-inspired set.
The veteran British MC reclaims his title as Godfather of Grime on his 11th (and purportedly final) studio album.