Best Albums of 2009
Anybody who says hip-hop is dead wasn’t paying attention in 2009. Yeah, most of these artists will never make it to 106 and Park, but you know what, who cares? Hip-hop has always been at its best when it’s been outside the confines of mainstream standards. That’s not to say that the artists in our top ten list don’t have mass appeal, it’s just that these MCs are making quality music that even hip-hop purists would be proud of. And while we aren’t ready to say that rap music is experiencing a revival, if this year is any indicator, 2010 is going to be another strong one for hip-hop.
10. Finale — A Pipe Dream and a Promise
With a flow reminiscent of Rakim, this Detroit native’s album, A Pipe Dream and Promise, is a must for any fan fiending for a rap record with lyrics that are just as hard as the kick drums. What else would you expect from Rock City?
9. Wale — Attention Deficit
With his debut Attention Deficit, Wale silenced critics who said that his brand of intricate word slanging wouldn’t connect with mainstream audiences. With guest appearances from everyone from Bun B to Lady Gaga, this DC native proved that musicians from the nation’s capital can make more than just Go Go music.
8. Toki Wright — A Different Mirror
After years of releasing mixtapes, this Twin Cities native hit the scene hard with his Rhymesayers release A Different Mirror. Blending street consciousness and Afrocentricty, Wright will leave you dancing, crying and screaming revolution all on one track.
7. Jasiri X
Until now, Jasiri X has been the king of the viral video. That was until he dropped his solo album American History X. This hard hitting album consists of the most popular tracks from his popular This Week with Jasiri X series, including the inspirational “Baller and Rappers”.
6. Jay Z — The Blueprint 3
Say what you want about Hov, but Jigga can still rap. And Blueprint 3 might not be a classic album, but years from now, when you hear “Empire State of Mind,” you’re going to remember the autumn of 2009.
5. Masta Ace and Ed OG — Arts and Entertainment
What happens when two of hip-hop’s most legendary MCs collaborate? You get one of the most entertaining rap albums in recent memory. Who needs club records when your flow is timeless.
4. Drake — So Far Gone
Few MCs have ever had more buzz than Drake. The ghostwriter turned pop star proved that he’s got what it takes with his EP release So Far Gone. Let’s just hope he can keep it up before the masses get bored.
3. Clipse — Till The Casket Drops
With production from the games biggest names, including DJ Khalil and Pharrell, this VA duo came back from their extended hiatus with a vengeance. No one makes crack dealing sound so entertaining.
2. Raekwon — Only Built for Cuban Links PT II
15 years after he dropped his classic album, Raekwon returns to the scene with one of 2009’s most critically acclaimed records. From beginning to end, this classic album will remind you why you fell in love with the Wu-tang clan in the first place.
1. Slaughterhouse — Slaughterhouse
Who cares if this album didn’t go platinum? There has never been a more talented coterie of MCs on one record. Let’s just hope that Royce, Crooked I, Joe Budden and Joel Ortiz have the attention span to come back with another one.
