Royce Da 5'9" - "Merry Go Round"
Listened to Success Is Certain in its entirety yesterday. It's pretty dope. Gotta give it a second listen, as I had heard a good portion of the album before it dropped so some of it sounded dated as "Writer's Block," "Where My Money" and "Second Place" all leaked earlier in the year. But all three of those tracks are nice, so at 12 songs long I already knew 1/4 of the album was going to be good. "Merry Go Round" dissects Royce's career from where he started to where he is now including all the trials, tribulations, beefs and speed bumps in between. Lyrics are of course above par here as Royce doesn't take a song off.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Song of the Day
Black Star - "You Already Knew"
Mos Def may've changed his name to Yasiin Bey, but otherwise ain't a damn thang changed as Black Star has reunited for some good old fashioned hip-hop music. Of course it's soulful. Of course it's lyrical. Of course it's chilled out and head nodding. Talib and Mos (I'm still going to refer to him as Mos) are set to launch a new project called Aretha in honor of the Queen of Soul. I can't wait for that album to drop. In the meantime, here's the second song released since their reunion, produced by Oh No, and it's some classic Black Star. Just put your headphones on and enjoy this one.
Mos Def may've changed his name to Yasiin Bey, but otherwise ain't a damn thang changed as Black Star has reunited for some good old fashioned hip-hop music. Of course it's soulful. Of course it's lyrical. Of course it's chilled out and head nodding. Talib and Mos (I'm still going to refer to him as Mos) are set to launch a new project called Aretha in honor of the Queen of Soul. I can't wait for that album to drop. In the meantime, here's the second song released since their reunion, produced by Oh No, and it's some classic Black Star. Just put your headphones on and enjoy this one.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Song of the Day
Game - "Born in the Trap"
Game banger produced by DJ Premier off The R.E.D. Album. I was pleasantly surprised with R.E.D., as I wasn't expecting much given the guest list (and there's a lot of guests on the disc). And while it does have it's share of filler, as expected for a 21-song album, there's plenty of good on the disc. "The City" and "Ricky" are standouts as is this song with some old fashioned Premo production. This track would've been an outstanding Gang Starr track, but Game certainly does the beat justice. This song knocks.
Game banger produced by DJ Premier off The R.E.D. Album. I was pleasantly surprised with R.E.D., as I wasn't expecting much given the guest list (and there's a lot of guests on the disc). And while it does have it's share of filler, as expected for a 21-song album, there's plenty of good on the disc. "The City" and "Ricky" are standouts as is this song with some old fashioned Premo production. This track would've been an outstanding Gang Starr track, but Game certainly does the beat justice. This song knocks.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Song of the Day
Childish Gambino - "Outside"
This track is really, really dope. Childish Gambino's debut, Camp, has a lot of bright spots, but none brighter than "Outside" which kicks off the album. Gambino shows his talents as a lyricist as he discusses his youth and family relationships over a dope piano driven beat and a choir sung chorus. I've only gotten through Camp once, but I was definitely happy with the album after first listen.
This track is really, really dope. Childish Gambino's debut, Camp, has a lot of bright spots, but none brighter than "Outside" which kicks off the album. Gambino shows his talents as a lyricist as he discusses his youth and family relationships over a dope piano driven beat and a choir sung chorus. I've only gotten through Camp once, but I was definitely happy with the album after first listen.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Song of the Day
Mac Miller - "Blue Slide Park"
Just started listening to Mac Miller's debut album. It's decent, sounds a lot like his Best Day Ever mixtape. I didn't expect to be blown away by the disc and so far my expectations have been met. It's good, not great, but enjoyable to listen to in the car. Mac can flow, but his songs do start to sound repetitive after a while. This is the title track and is pretty indicative of what you can expect to hear on the album. For a 19-year-old the kid's got a ton of potential. And I respect that he stayed with an underground label so he can stay true to the music that he wants to make instead of having a major push him into more radio friendly territory.
Just started listening to Mac Miller's debut album. It's decent, sounds a lot like his Best Day Ever mixtape. I didn't expect to be blown away by the disc and so far my expectations have been met. It's good, not great, but enjoyable to listen to in the car. Mac can flow, but his songs do start to sound repetitive after a while. This is the title track and is pretty indicative of what you can expect to hear on the album. For a 19-year-old the kid's got a ton of potential. And I respect that he stayed with an underground label so he can stay true to the music that he wants to make instead of having a major push him into more radio friendly territory.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Song of the Day
Wale - "Legendary"
Almost finished Wale's Ambition. Got a few tracks left, but otherwise it's been pretty solid. I liked Attention Deficit better, that's for certain, but there's some solid songs on his new disc. This track stuck out to me, although the hook isn't great and it plays on a little long, it's still one of the doper pure hip-hop songs on the disc. Wale has a lot of dope lines on here like, "This is anti-Mark McGwire, it takes patience for power." Ambition is worth listening to, but it did leave me a little disappointed. Too much slow, soft shit for the ladies.
Almost finished Wale's Ambition. Got a few tracks left, but otherwise it's been pretty solid. I liked Attention Deficit better, that's for certain, but there's some solid songs on his new disc. This track stuck out to me, although the hook isn't great and it plays on a little long, it's still one of the doper pure hip-hop songs on the disc. Wale has a lot of dope lines on here like, "This is anti-Mark McGwire, it takes patience for power." Ambition is worth listening to, but it did leave me a little disappointed. Too much slow, soft shit for the ladies.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Song of the Day
Willie The Kid - "Blades Of A Certain Edge"
Willie The Kids' #TheCrates mixtape was just so damn fresh. Seriously, you need to peep that shit like right now. Every track is hot. And Willie has punchlines out the ass. The production on this track sounds like some RZA Wu-Tang Forever era shit and Willie just slays it. It's only over a minute long, but damn it's ill. I love this mixtape.
Willie The Kids' #TheCrates mixtape was just so damn fresh. Seriously, you need to peep that shit like right now. Every track is hot. And Willie has punchlines out the ass. The production on this track sounds like some RZA Wu-Tang Forever era shit and Willie just slays it. It's only over a minute long, but damn it's ill. I love this mixtape.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Song of the Day
Phonte - "Dance In The Reign"
I know I picked a Phonte song yesterday, but I just finished listening to Charity Starts At Home for the third straight time and damn Phonte is ill as hell on this disc. Lyrically I'm not sure I've ever heard him better. Or at least not as hungry. He drops ill line after ill line. This is the first track on the album and a preview of what you're in store for. There are a few slower, softer moments towards the middle of the disc which plays out more like his Foreign Connection tracks, but when it's pure hip-hop it's head nodding beats with outstanding lyrics. Peep this album!
I know I picked a Phonte song yesterday, but I just finished listening to Charity Starts At Home for the third straight time and damn Phonte is ill as hell on this disc. Lyrically I'm not sure I've ever heard him better. Or at least not as hungry. He drops ill line after ill line. This is the first track on the album and a preview of what you're in store for. There are a few slower, softer moments towards the middle of the disc which plays out more like his Foreign Connection tracks, but when it's pure hip-hop it's head nodding beats with outstanding lyrics. Peep this album!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Song of the Day
Phonte feat. Evidence & Big K.R.I.T. - "The Life Of Kings"
Just got back from Baltimore so I had to play this track due to the Omar snippet at the end. This posse track is off Phonte's Charity Starts At Home and features two dope guest verses from Ev and K.R.I.T. Oh and 9th Wonder is on the boards for this one. So basically there's no way it could go wrong. I'm finally, FINALLY getting around to listening to Charity Starts At Home. I'm excited to finally start digesting this album.
Just got back from Baltimore so I had to play this track due to the Omar snippet at the end. This posse track is off Phonte's Charity Starts At Home and features two dope guest verses from Ev and K.R.I.T. Oh and 9th Wonder is on the boards for this one. So basically there's no way it could go wrong. I'm finally, FINALLY getting around to listening to Charity Starts At Home. I'm excited to finally start digesting this album.
Friday, November 11, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 2010
After feeling like there was a bit of draught in good hip-hop music over the past few years, 2010 struck with a tidal wave of music. Seriously, making a list of Top 20 songs was damn near impossible as I started my list at close to 50 songs and had to narrow it down. And remember, I only pick one song per album, so that gives you an idea of how much different music was out there.
So let me start by saying I will not be including any mixtapes in my Best Albums list, because quite simply they are mixtapes not full albums. I will include songs off mixtapes where it’s warranted, as well as random singles and limited releases for the Best Songs list. Of the mixtapes that I did peep in 2010, my favorites were J. Cole’s Friday Night Lights, Big K.R.I.T.’s K.R.I.T. Wuz Here, Wale’s More About Nothing, Game’s Brake Lights, Reks’ In Between The Lines Vol. I and II, Skillz’ Infamous Quotes, Royce da 5’9’s Bar Exam 3, Freddie Gibbs’ Str8 Killa, No Filla, Joe Budden’s Mood Muzik 4: A Turn For The Worst, Slaine’s The Devil Never Dies and Das Racist’s Sit Down, Man.
Also dropping mixtapes that I copped were T.I., B.o.B., Rick Ross (twice), Pac Div and Jadakiss. On top of that, we got Kanye’s G.O.O.D. Friday releases in anticipation of his new album, which was another album’s worth of new material, plus we had all the weekly series dropped by numerous artists and highlighted by the trend’s innovator Crooked I with his Hip-Hop Weekly Reloaded series. Shit, that’s a lot of music. Not to mention new albums from Cee-Lo Green, Aloe Blacc, The Roots with John Legend and the power collaboration between Nas and Damian Marley on Distant Relatives.
So as you can see, there was a ton of new music to pick from in 2010. So much so, that I probably didn’t even get to some of the other outstanding offerings out there. The first two that come to mind are Marco Polo’s The Stupendous Adventures of Marco Polo and Reflection Eternal’s Revolutions Per Minute. And it’s not that I don’t care about those albums. I just had so much to take in that I never got around to them. Believe me, both albums are on my Most Wanted list and would probably impact this Best of list, but for now, I’m going with the music I have.
And to really put it into perspective, I got 15 albums for Christmas alone. That’s right, 15! So I had some catching up to do. Making this list wasn’t exactly easy, but I’m happy with the final product. So let’s get down to business….
Best Songs
20. “If I Should Die” – Big K.R.I.T.
K.R.I.T. has now become a bigger name in hip-hop, but it was 2010’s K.R.I.T. Wuz Here that broke him. After several mixtapes dating back to 2005, K.R.I.T.’s 2010 effort got him noticed and got him a record deal and with good reason. However it was K.R.I.T.’s contribution to Jonny Shipes’ Good Talk Vol. 9: Curve Your Enthusiasm Mixtape that really set him apart for me. This is some great Southern hip-hop with a terrific Marvin Gaye sample to really bring things together.
19. “In The Park” – Ghostface Killah feat. Black Thought
I toyed around with this list so many times that I actually had Ghost’s “Purified Thoughts” on here at one point. I then removed that track and had zero Ghost songs on the list. After I went back to listen to Apollo Kids again for my Best Albums list, “In The Park” came on and I immediately went back and made changes to the list again. This song has everything you could want. It’s an ode to the glory days of hip-hop over a raw ass beat and Ghost picks the perfect guest in Black Thought, who delivers a terrific verse.
18. “The Best Day” – Atmosphere
Back when I started this blog and started messing with the concept of Song of the Day, this was the first video I actually put on The Writer’s Block. It’s a song I find to be so relatable for everyone as Slug rhymes about life not being perfect and learning to cope with it. He talks about having a shitty job that someone else would kill for, as well as the ups and downs of a relationship in turmoil. Throughout their career Atmosphere has been able to deliver music for the average man and this is no exception.
17. “Black & Yellow” – Wiz Khalifa
Initially I didn’t really pay any attention to this song, but then Crooked I destroyed the beat for his HHW series and my feelings changed. This beat is hard. One of my favorite beats of the year with ease. I love the way Crooked flipped this song, but after going back and giving the original another listen I realized Wiz delivered a Song of the Year candidate as this is definitely one of those anthem type songs that will last a long time.
16. “Aftermath” – Joe Budden
I really enjoyed Joe Budden’s Mood Muzik 4 mixtape. The whole effort was solid and one of the most slept on (although I don’t know if you can say that about a mixtape) projects of the year. “Aftermath” grabbed my attention immediately as a sample from Rocky Balboa comes on to start the song. The song breaks down the speech in three different sections, heightening in intensity with each segment leading into Budden’s verses. It’s my favorite part of the movie and it’s used perfectly here. I’m a sucker for good samples and this is no different. (While I have a minute, I’d also like to send a shout out to Skillz for his Infamous Quotes mixtape which samples the likes of Will Ferrell, Katt Williams, Snoop from The Wire and my favorite the Allen Iverson tirade for the song “Practice.”)
15. “Goin’ Back” – 1982 feat. Cassidy & Xzibit
While I’m not a big Cassidy fan, he does hold his own here over a tremendous beat from Statik Selektah. Termanology also brings it on this one, but what really won me over and grabbed my attention was the return of Xzibit. He sounded refreshed on this song and absolutely delivers the best verse with ease. Mr. X to the Z was also tremendous on Get Busy Committee’s remix of “Dancin’ On Your Grave” along with Murs and Paul Wall.
14. “That’s All She Wrote” – T.I. feat. Eminem
No Mercy was a letdown, but T.I. deserves a pass as he was headed back into prison and had to rush to put the finishing touches on the album. This track, much like their previous collaboration “Touchdown,” isn’t the greatest effort from either T.I. or Em, but they do have some good chemistry on the track and I’m a big fan of the production on the track. It’s dark and bouncy and Em is really mean on the track.
13. “Crown of Thorns” – Rakaa feat. Aloe Blacc
Aloe Blacc delivered one of my absolute favorites songs of 2010 with “I Need A Dollar” off his tremendous Good Things album. That album is so soulful and Blacc reminds me of a modern day Bill Withers. Seeing as it’s not a hip-hop song, it won’t make this list, but his chorus on Rakaa’s title track is another example of the powerful, soulful voice that Aloe has. Then of course there’s Rakaa who is absolutely on point lyrically on this track. Crown of Thorns just missed my Top 10 albums list, but it’s absolutely 100% worth buying if you don’t already own it.
12. “Free Mason” – Rick Ross feat. Jay-Z
I’ve never been a Rick Ross fan. In fact I can’t recall a single Rick Ross song I liked before 2010. But after reading review after review of Teflon Don, I figured I’d give it a try and I was pleasantly surprised. While “B.M.F.” was a monster smash for Ross, I can honestly say I didn’t care for it at all. It’s actually the type of song that made me not like Ross in the first place. But there are plenty of highlights on Teflon Don and none better than Ross’ collaboration with Hov. Jay addresses the rumors he may be a devil worshiper (huh?) and Ross actually holds his own lyrically with Jay.
11. “General Patton” – Big Boi
Big Boi brought some more funk and soul on his official solo debut, but “General Patton” was as hard hitting as you’ll find. Big Boi brought some heat on this track over a very cinematic and dramatic soundscape. It’s just pure heat. I can’t think of any other way to describe it. My only complaint is it’s so short. Big Boi raps for under 2 minutes and I would’ve loved a third verse instead of the spoken word that closes out the song.
10. “Styles Ain’t Raw” – Celph-Titled feat. Apathy & Chino XL
This was the perfect first single for Celph’s Nineteen Ninety Now album as it captures the sound of the mid ‘90’s both through Buckwild’s production and the posse concept. Apathy opens up the track in grand fashion and ends up delivering the strongest verse, while Celph is sandwiched between two lyrical titans. Chino has some great punchlines, but it’s not his best effort. Although his final line is true Chino as he spits, “My murder monologue keep rappers scared to go up in the booth like it’s Magic Johnson’s wife’s vagina raw.”
9. “Battle Cry” – Joell Ortiz
Some question Ortiz’s abilities compared to his Slaughterhouse compadres but this song proves otherwise. Ortiz spits punchline after punchline over an absolute banger from Audible Doctor or is it Just Blaze? Conflicted reports on who produced the track, but regardless it’s a terrific beat. There’s no hook, just 4-plus minutes of spit from Ortiz.
8. “Going Through Changes” – Eminem
My favorite Eminem songs are the ones in which he discusses personal things on the mic. Em has bared his soul to all of us over his career, before falling back into his Slim Shady persona on Encore and Relapse with luke warm results. The shock value that we found on his first album has since passed as we have gotten to see Em’s life play out on record. This track brings that back as Em is open and honest about his drug addiction, his overdose, the loss of Proof and the deep love he has for Kim despite knowing they’ll never be able to be together because of their checkered pass. It’s open and honest and that’s when Em’s at his best.
7. “Deadly Medley” – Black Milk feat. Royce Da 5’9” & Elzhi
I’m not sure any beat knocked harder than this one. This is some head nodding, neck breaking boom bap hip-hop. I love, love, love this beat! Black Milk proved to me why he’s one of the best producers in the game with 2010’s Album of the Year and got me to peep his older catalog. I’ll admit I was late to game with Milk’s music, but I’m glad I found it. He holds his own on the mic here as well, but Royce and Elzhi are the true lyrical heroes on this track. This beat sounds like it was custom made for Royce to slay. Damn, this is a hot song.
6. “We’re Gonna Kill You” – Apathy
While 2010 was sort of a Renaissance year for hip-hop, there was still plenty of bullshit hip-hop music out there and plenty of corny rappers. But don’t worry, Ap takes care of them all with “We’re Gonna Kill You.” Seriously, this song is mean and Ap is relentless on the MCs he feels aren’t bringing it right. Among those is Asher Roth and Charles Hamilton, but in general it’s Ap’s way of saying get that weak shit outta here!
5. “Airplanes, Part II” – B.o.B. feat. Hayley Williams & Eminem
I heard the original version of this and thought it was pretty good, but then I was driving home one night and the remix or “Part II” came on and I went, “Oh shit!” B.o.B. took a good song to another level with the inclusion of Mr. Mathers. You’re all familiar with this song, so I’m gonna take a sec to stress what a huge year 2010 was for Em. Not only did he drop Recovery, but he made guest appearances with B.o.B., T.I., Lloyd Banks, Nicki Minaj and Rihanna. And he recaptured the intensity and tremendous lyricism we all expect from him.
4. “This Or That” – Reks
I don’t know who came up with this beat first as it was also used for Ghostface’s “Purified Thoughts” which was produced by Frank Dukes, but regardless it was made to be murdered by Reks. Statik Selektah gets the production credit on this track and brings the heat, but Reks is the true star here. Talk about another great artist that I must’ve slept on, but thankfully I found this track online and downloaded it because it opened the door to Reks music for me. This is lyrical homicide.
3. “Over” – Drake
The beat on this track is among the best of 2010 and along with “Beamer, Benz and Bentley” was probably the most reused by other MCs. It’s also the hardest track on Drake’s debut. While he rhymed (and sang) over some very mellow sounds throughout on Thank Me Later, Drake brings plenty of energy for Boi-1da’s upbeat production. Royce and Em are among those that flipped this beat and destroyed it, but Drake’s original was executed just right.
2. “Devil In A New Dress” – Kanye West feat. Rick Ross
I could’ve picked the first four tracks off My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy for this spot, or “Runaway” or “Blame Game,” but after going back and listening to the album repeatedly (and repeatedly), “Devil In A New Dress,” stands out as my favorite track on the album and therefore is the right choice for the No. 2 spot. I had the Rick Ross-less version of this track from Kanye’s “G.O.O.D. Fridays” releases, but it didn’t make as much of an impact on me at that time for whatever reason. After the album dropped, this song just stood out for me. I can’t explain it, it just took on a new life for me. “Runaway” was a tough omission here as well, as it’s a groundbreaking single, but Kanye doesn’t really rap on it and the last four minutes of distorted auto-tune was a little excessive.
1. “Dear God 2.0” – The Roots feat. Monsters of Folk
I remember going to a party on the day after Thanksgiving (or Black Friday) and sitting out in the garage listening to my iPod while discussing hip-hop with an old friend of mine (shout out to the Crime Dogg). We were talking about Kanye’s album, when I flipped to this song and my friend said, “The first time I heard this song it gave me the chills.” And that’s exactly how I felt the first time I heard it as well. The Roots created a masterpiece with this song. After turning Cody Chestnutt’s “The Seed” into pure gold on Phrenology, the Roots have achieved the same feat here putting their spin on the Monsters of Folk’s “Dear God” and turning a good song into an amazing song. Black Thought’s lyrics are among the best of his career as he spits, “Who does the blind lead?/Give me a sign please/If everything is made in China, are we Chinese?/And why do haters separate us like we Siamese?/Technology turning the planet into zombies/Everybody all in everybody’s dirty laundry/Acid rain, earthquakes, hurricane, tsunamis/Terrorist, crime sprees, assaults and robberies…”
Best Albums
10. The Adventures of Bobby Ray – B.o.B.
After hearing “Nothin’ On You” and both version of “Airplanes” I was intrigued by B.o.B. but not exactly sold. But Target had his CD on sale for $7.99 when it dropped, so I decided what the hell, why not? And I can honestly say it was one of the most listened to CD of 2010 for me. It’s much softer and poppier than most hip-hop that I like, but for whatever reason I found it very easy to digest and really enjoyed the disc. The first four tracks are all excellent, while the Janelle Monae assisted “The Kids” and the Em blessed “Airplanes, Part II” really pushed this disc to another level for me. It’s a fun album that has some depth to it and has a ton of replay value.
9. Apollo Kids – Ghostface Killah
After a bit of a letdown with 2009’s Ghostdini, Ghost limited the amount of time he spent talking to the ladies and went back to the streets on Apollo Kids. The album opens in grand fashion with “Purified Thoughts” featuring Killah Priest and GZA (which uses the same sample as Reks’ “This or That” as mentioned above) before leading into the Busta Rhymes assisted and super funky “Superstar.” Other favorites include “2getha Baby,” “In Tha Park,” “Ghetto” and “Troublemakers.” The only real missteps are the Jim Jones assisted “Handcuffin’ Them Hoes” (can someone please, please, PLEASE explain the appeal of Jim Jones? He’s a horrible rapper and his ad libs are just stupid. I could do without his music for the rest of my life. Seriously, NO MORE Jim Jones collaborations! And Raekwon put him on his newest album too. I just don’t get it!) and “Street Bullies” which finds Ghost spitting the hook and adding little else. Otherwise it’s another feather in the cap of the most consistent member of the Wu.
8. Nineteen Ninety Now – Celph-Titled & Buckwild
The concept behind this album was tremendous. In fact it knocks it past Ghostface’s album based on the concept alone. But then there’s execution and this album did deliver. As a throwback to the ‘90’s or “Glory Days” of hip-hop, Celph decided to dig up some old Buckwild production and let loose over it. He then brought along some friends (Apathy, Vinnie Paz, Ryu, Esoteric, Majik Most and Dutchmassive) as well as some ‘90’s staples (Treach, F.T., Sadat X, Grand Puba, AG, O.C., Diamond D and Chino XL) to create an album that gives a nod to the music of his heyday without sounding dated. There are a few songs that I could’ve done without, but overall it’s a solid project.
7. Live From The Tape Deck – Skyzoo & !llmind
2010 marked the year for nostalgia and Skyzoo and !llmind honored the golden era with their collaborative album. The title alone is a throwback to the days before MP3s and instant downloads. It’s the reason Only Built 4 Cuban Linx is referred to as “the Purple Tape.” (Yes, for all you young bucks, the cassette version of Raekwon’s classic album was actually in a purple case). I can remember making mixtapes all the time on my 90-minute Maxells and then letting those things pop and hiss in my walkman or car stereo. It was a simpler time. But back to Skyzoo and !llmind, the two combine for a vintage sound of some raw, underground hip-hop with excellent results. Among those featured on the album are Duck Down vets Heltah Skeltah and Buckshot, as well as underground favorites Torae, Styles P. and Rhymefest. There’s nothing groundbreaking here, just great hip-hop music from start to finish.
6. 1982 – Statik Selektah & Termanology
I loved the idea of making an album in homage to Gang Starr and Pete Rock & CL Smooth and Statik and Termanology certainly have that type of rapport. The opening track, “The World Renown,” is 5 minutes of Term going off on a head nodding, horn blessed beat from Statik. Seriously, if the whole album was as good as this track it would contend for the No. 1 spot in 2010. But there are a few missteps towards the middle of the disc when Term addresses the ladies on “Wedding Bells” and the Bun B assisted “You Should Go Home.” That’s not to say there isn’t plenty of hard hitting, old school sounding hip-hop joints to please the biggest critic including “People Are Running,” “Still Waiting” and the excellent collaborations “Goin Back” with Cassidy & Xzibit, “Thugathon 2010” featuring M.O.P. and the Inspectah Deck blessed “The Hood Is On Fire.”
5. Thank Me Later – Drake
I’ve already discussed this on this site, but let me repeat it here, this album is NOT, and I repeat NOT the 5-star classic that Hiphopsite said it was. I’m a huge fan of Hiphopsite and in particular DJ Pizzo, but he got this one wrong. I just listened to this again last week in preparation to write this column and I’m even more confused as to how this was given the 5-star treatment. It’s a solid debut. It’s worthy of a top-5 spot for 2010. But this doesn’t even enter the conversation of all-time greats. Now there is plenty to like about the album and Drake really does showcase his talent both as an MC and a vocalist throughout. And it is a very cohesive album and flows together really well. The first four tracks are all standouts, as are “Fancy” featuring T.I. & Swizz Beatz, “Light Up” featuring Jay-Z, “Find Your Love” and the Timbaland produced “Thank Me Now.” But “Show Me A Good Time,” “Up All Night” with Nicki Minaj and the Young Jeezy featured “Unforgettable” are all forgettable. Overall, it’s a really solid debut album. Just not one for the ages. (On a side note, if you wanna hear a great blend, start with The Roots “Dear God 2.0” and then let it play right into Drake’s “Light Up.” The transition from one song to the other is seamless and sounds like it was meant to happen.)
4. Recovery – Eminem
Em came back. Thank God! After Relapse and the return of Slim Shady, I was nervous we wouldn’t ever see the best Em again. And after hearing he had recorded two albums worth of material I got even more worried that we were going to have another album full of murder and rape with that damn accent. But Em decided to go back to the drawing board and delivered Recovery which took me back to the days of The Eminem Show. He bares his heart on “Talkin’ 2 Myself,” “Going Through Changes,” “Almost Famous” and the ode to Proof “You’re Never Over.” He also hit with another anthem style song as “Not Afraid” is a triumphant return to form for Mr. Mathers. Then there’s his lyrical side on “Cold Wind Blows,” “On Fire” and “No Love” where Em decides to remind the world that he can absolutely destroy the mic. And we haven’t even gotten to the biggest smash on the album, the Rihanna assisted “Love The Way You Lie” which takes a very vivid look into an abusive relationship. Recovery isn’t on the same level as Em’s first three albums, but it’s certainly ahead of Encore and Relapse and was a welcome return to form.
3. Sir Luscious Leftfoot: The Son of Chico Dusty – Big Boi
Truthfully when this album came out I wasn’t overly excited about it. On one hand, it was a Big Boi album and I’ve always preferred both Big Boi and Andre 3000 to be making music together, not doing solo projects. Also, it dropped only 2 weeks after Em’s Recovery and The Roots How I Got Over, so I had two albums that had just been released in heavy rotation at the same time. But I did get the album on the day it dropped and decided to give it a listen. I’m so glad I did. This is not an Outkast album, but it does feel like a continuation of Speakerboxxx and I mean that as a major compliment. Big Boi brings back that Southernplayalistic feel on this disc. “Daddy Fat Sax” kicks the door down to open the album and Big Boi never lets go over the next 14 tracks. “General Patton” is my favorite on the album, as noted above, but there are so many highlights on this disc and so many of my true favorite songs of 2010. If I didn’t limit my Best Songs list to one song per album, I’d potentially have two or three more songs from this album it’s that damn good. “Fo Yo Sorrows” with George Clinton and Too $hort, “Follow Us” featuring Vonnegutt, “Be Still” with Janelle Monae, “Shine Blockas” featuring Gucci Mane (seriously, I didn’t think I would ever say “Gucci Mane” and “damn good song” in the same sentence, but yes it really happened) and “The Train, Pt. 2” are all Best Song candidates. There’s only one song I skip over and that’s “You Ain’t No DJ” featuring Yelawolf, which was actually released as a single. Chalk this one up as another win for one half of Outkast.
2. How I Got Over – The Roots
The Roots have been one of my favorite groups for over 15 years now. They have yet to release an album that I haven’t liked and they have stepped outside the box time after time with their music. After releasing some of their darkest music on Game Theory and Rising Down, the Roots went for a much mellower sound on How I Got Over. The music is truly mood music and deals with a lot of grown up topics as Black Thought spends his time on the mic giving social commentary on topics ranging from natural disasters to the age of technology, as well as offering some hope and better days at other moments. It’s brilliant, mellow and thought provoking. It’s also an album without any real flaws, as it plays out in its entirety without having to hit the skip button. Also features guests verses from Phonte and Blu who blend with The Roots sound beautifully, as well as the usual suspects like Truck North, P.O.R.N., Dice Raw, Peedi Peedi and John Legend. The best tracks are “Walk Alone,” “Dear God 2.0,” “Radio Daze,” “Now or Never,” the title track, “The Day,” and “The Fire.” Or in other words almost the entire album. And the other songs like “Right On” and “Doin’ It Again” are still miles ahead of most rap songs.
1. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy – Kanye West
Let’s just get this clear, this album is NOT a classic. It’s excellent. It’s the best album of 2010, hands down. It’s the best hip-hop album to drop since Kanye’s Late Registration which dropped five years prior. And it’s certainly worth adding to your collection. But much like Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II, it’s not worthy of the 5-star treatment that so many publications laid on it. “So Appalled,” “Hell of a Life,” “Lost In The World” and “Who Will Survive In America” could have all been replaced with songs from Kanye’s “G.O.O.D. Fridays” releases. And classic albums don’t have interchangeable parts. Now that we’re done with that part, let’s get down to the good stuff. This is an outstanding album. Although it was released on a Tuesday, I knew my local record store put out new releases the Friday before the actual release date, so I drove out of my way after work on a Friday night to pick up the disc. I popped the CD into my car stereo and was blown away. After the first 6 tracks, I was ready to use that “classic” word that I’m very hesitant to throw out there. And “Devil In A New Dress,” “Runaway” and “Blame Game” only helped solidify that amazing quality. “Blame Game” has become one of my favorite songs from the disc and I’ve been listening to that song like crazy over the past few months. If “Good Friday,” “The Joy,” “Christian Dior Denim Flow,” and “Don’t Look Down” would’ve replaced the four missteps (if you want to call them that) I listed above, then this would’ve been worthy of that “classic” label. Instead, it’ll go down as an outstanding album that was far and above any other hip-hop album to drop in 2010 and the best hip-hop album to be released in a 5-year span, which is nothing to sneeze at.
So that’s it for the Best of lists. It’s been an extremely long process and I’m sorry I’ve slowed down on delivering these lists, but it took a lot of time to research, to relisten and to come up with the words to describe what all these 400 songs and 200 albums have meant to me. It’s been a pleasure to write and I hope you’ve all enjoyed reading these lists as much as I’ve enjoyed writing them. And more importantly, I hope I was able to introduce you to some amazing hip-hop music. Of course this series will continue after the New Year with the Best of 2011, but until then I’ll be working on some other ideas for this blog. Thanks for reading!
So let me start by saying I will not be including any mixtapes in my Best Albums list, because quite simply they are mixtapes not full albums. I will include songs off mixtapes where it’s warranted, as well as random singles and limited releases for the Best Songs list. Of the mixtapes that I did peep in 2010, my favorites were J. Cole’s Friday Night Lights, Big K.R.I.T.’s K.R.I.T. Wuz Here, Wale’s More About Nothing, Game’s Brake Lights, Reks’ In Between The Lines Vol. I and II, Skillz’ Infamous Quotes, Royce da 5’9’s Bar Exam 3, Freddie Gibbs’ Str8 Killa, No Filla, Joe Budden’s Mood Muzik 4: A Turn For The Worst, Slaine’s The Devil Never Dies and Das Racist’s Sit Down, Man.
Also dropping mixtapes that I copped were T.I., B.o.B., Rick Ross (twice), Pac Div and Jadakiss. On top of that, we got Kanye’s G.O.O.D. Friday releases in anticipation of his new album, which was another album’s worth of new material, plus we had all the weekly series dropped by numerous artists and highlighted by the trend’s innovator Crooked I with his Hip-Hop Weekly Reloaded series. Shit, that’s a lot of music. Not to mention new albums from Cee-Lo Green, Aloe Blacc, The Roots with John Legend and the power collaboration between Nas and Damian Marley on Distant Relatives.
So as you can see, there was a ton of new music to pick from in 2010. So much so, that I probably didn’t even get to some of the other outstanding offerings out there. The first two that come to mind are Marco Polo’s The Stupendous Adventures of Marco Polo and Reflection Eternal’s Revolutions Per Minute. And it’s not that I don’t care about those albums. I just had so much to take in that I never got around to them. Believe me, both albums are on my Most Wanted list and would probably impact this Best of list, but for now, I’m going with the music I have.
And to really put it into perspective, I got 15 albums for Christmas alone. That’s right, 15! So I had some catching up to do. Making this list wasn’t exactly easy, but I’m happy with the final product. So let’s get down to business….
Best Songs
20. “If I Should Die” – Big K.R.I.T.
K.R.I.T. has now become a bigger name in hip-hop, but it was 2010’s K.R.I.T. Wuz Here that broke him. After several mixtapes dating back to 2005, K.R.I.T.’s 2010 effort got him noticed and got him a record deal and with good reason. However it was K.R.I.T.’s contribution to Jonny Shipes’ Good Talk Vol. 9: Curve Your Enthusiasm Mixtape that really set him apart for me. This is some great Southern hip-hop with a terrific Marvin Gaye sample to really bring things together.
19. “In The Park” – Ghostface Killah feat. Black Thought
I toyed around with this list so many times that I actually had Ghost’s “Purified Thoughts” on here at one point. I then removed that track and had zero Ghost songs on the list. After I went back to listen to Apollo Kids again for my Best Albums list, “In The Park” came on and I immediately went back and made changes to the list again. This song has everything you could want. It’s an ode to the glory days of hip-hop over a raw ass beat and Ghost picks the perfect guest in Black Thought, who delivers a terrific verse.
18. “The Best Day” – Atmosphere
Back when I started this blog and started messing with the concept of Song of the Day, this was the first video I actually put on The Writer’s Block. It’s a song I find to be so relatable for everyone as Slug rhymes about life not being perfect and learning to cope with it. He talks about having a shitty job that someone else would kill for, as well as the ups and downs of a relationship in turmoil. Throughout their career Atmosphere has been able to deliver music for the average man and this is no exception.
17. “Black & Yellow” – Wiz Khalifa
Initially I didn’t really pay any attention to this song, but then Crooked I destroyed the beat for his HHW series and my feelings changed. This beat is hard. One of my favorite beats of the year with ease. I love the way Crooked flipped this song, but after going back and giving the original another listen I realized Wiz delivered a Song of the Year candidate as this is definitely one of those anthem type songs that will last a long time.
16. “Aftermath” – Joe Budden
I really enjoyed Joe Budden’s Mood Muzik 4 mixtape. The whole effort was solid and one of the most slept on (although I don’t know if you can say that about a mixtape) projects of the year. “Aftermath” grabbed my attention immediately as a sample from Rocky Balboa comes on to start the song. The song breaks down the speech in three different sections, heightening in intensity with each segment leading into Budden’s verses. It’s my favorite part of the movie and it’s used perfectly here. I’m a sucker for good samples and this is no different. (While I have a minute, I’d also like to send a shout out to Skillz for his Infamous Quotes mixtape which samples the likes of Will Ferrell, Katt Williams, Snoop from The Wire and my favorite the Allen Iverson tirade for the song “Practice.”)
15. “Goin’ Back” – 1982 feat. Cassidy & Xzibit
While I’m not a big Cassidy fan, he does hold his own here over a tremendous beat from Statik Selektah. Termanology also brings it on this one, but what really won me over and grabbed my attention was the return of Xzibit. He sounded refreshed on this song and absolutely delivers the best verse with ease. Mr. X to the Z was also tremendous on Get Busy Committee’s remix of “Dancin’ On Your Grave” along with Murs and Paul Wall.
14. “That’s All She Wrote” – T.I. feat. Eminem
No Mercy was a letdown, but T.I. deserves a pass as he was headed back into prison and had to rush to put the finishing touches on the album. This track, much like their previous collaboration “Touchdown,” isn’t the greatest effort from either T.I. or Em, but they do have some good chemistry on the track and I’m a big fan of the production on the track. It’s dark and bouncy and Em is really mean on the track.
13. “Crown of Thorns” – Rakaa feat. Aloe Blacc
Aloe Blacc delivered one of my absolute favorites songs of 2010 with “I Need A Dollar” off his tremendous Good Things album. That album is so soulful and Blacc reminds me of a modern day Bill Withers. Seeing as it’s not a hip-hop song, it won’t make this list, but his chorus on Rakaa’s title track is another example of the powerful, soulful voice that Aloe has. Then of course there’s Rakaa who is absolutely on point lyrically on this track. Crown of Thorns just missed my Top 10 albums list, but it’s absolutely 100% worth buying if you don’t already own it.
12. “Free Mason” – Rick Ross feat. Jay-Z
I’ve never been a Rick Ross fan. In fact I can’t recall a single Rick Ross song I liked before 2010. But after reading review after review of Teflon Don, I figured I’d give it a try and I was pleasantly surprised. While “B.M.F.” was a monster smash for Ross, I can honestly say I didn’t care for it at all. It’s actually the type of song that made me not like Ross in the first place. But there are plenty of highlights on Teflon Don and none better than Ross’ collaboration with Hov. Jay addresses the rumors he may be a devil worshiper (huh?) and Ross actually holds his own lyrically with Jay.
11. “General Patton” – Big Boi
Big Boi brought some more funk and soul on his official solo debut, but “General Patton” was as hard hitting as you’ll find. Big Boi brought some heat on this track over a very cinematic and dramatic soundscape. It’s just pure heat. I can’t think of any other way to describe it. My only complaint is it’s so short. Big Boi raps for under 2 minutes and I would’ve loved a third verse instead of the spoken word that closes out the song.
10. “Styles Ain’t Raw” – Celph-Titled feat. Apathy & Chino XL
This was the perfect first single for Celph’s Nineteen Ninety Now album as it captures the sound of the mid ‘90’s both through Buckwild’s production and the posse concept. Apathy opens up the track in grand fashion and ends up delivering the strongest verse, while Celph is sandwiched between two lyrical titans. Chino has some great punchlines, but it’s not his best effort. Although his final line is true Chino as he spits, “My murder monologue keep rappers scared to go up in the booth like it’s Magic Johnson’s wife’s vagina raw.”
9. “Battle Cry” – Joell Ortiz
Some question Ortiz’s abilities compared to his Slaughterhouse compadres but this song proves otherwise. Ortiz spits punchline after punchline over an absolute banger from Audible Doctor or is it Just Blaze? Conflicted reports on who produced the track, but regardless it’s a terrific beat. There’s no hook, just 4-plus minutes of spit from Ortiz.
8. “Going Through Changes” – Eminem
My favorite Eminem songs are the ones in which he discusses personal things on the mic. Em has bared his soul to all of us over his career, before falling back into his Slim Shady persona on Encore and Relapse with luke warm results. The shock value that we found on his first album has since passed as we have gotten to see Em’s life play out on record. This track brings that back as Em is open and honest about his drug addiction, his overdose, the loss of Proof and the deep love he has for Kim despite knowing they’ll never be able to be together because of their checkered pass. It’s open and honest and that’s when Em’s at his best.
7. “Deadly Medley” – Black Milk feat. Royce Da 5’9” & Elzhi
I’m not sure any beat knocked harder than this one. This is some head nodding, neck breaking boom bap hip-hop. I love, love, love this beat! Black Milk proved to me why he’s one of the best producers in the game with 2010’s Album of the Year and got me to peep his older catalog. I’ll admit I was late to game with Milk’s music, but I’m glad I found it. He holds his own on the mic here as well, but Royce and Elzhi are the true lyrical heroes on this track. This beat sounds like it was custom made for Royce to slay. Damn, this is a hot song.
6. “We’re Gonna Kill You” – Apathy
While 2010 was sort of a Renaissance year for hip-hop, there was still plenty of bullshit hip-hop music out there and plenty of corny rappers. But don’t worry, Ap takes care of them all with “We’re Gonna Kill You.” Seriously, this song is mean and Ap is relentless on the MCs he feels aren’t bringing it right. Among those is Asher Roth and Charles Hamilton, but in general it’s Ap’s way of saying get that weak shit outta here!
5. “Airplanes, Part II” – B.o.B. feat. Hayley Williams & Eminem
I heard the original version of this and thought it was pretty good, but then I was driving home one night and the remix or “Part II” came on and I went, “Oh shit!” B.o.B. took a good song to another level with the inclusion of Mr. Mathers. You’re all familiar with this song, so I’m gonna take a sec to stress what a huge year 2010 was for Em. Not only did he drop Recovery, but he made guest appearances with B.o.B., T.I., Lloyd Banks, Nicki Minaj and Rihanna. And he recaptured the intensity and tremendous lyricism we all expect from him.
4. “This Or That” – Reks
I don’t know who came up with this beat first as it was also used for Ghostface’s “Purified Thoughts” which was produced by Frank Dukes, but regardless it was made to be murdered by Reks. Statik Selektah gets the production credit on this track and brings the heat, but Reks is the true star here. Talk about another great artist that I must’ve slept on, but thankfully I found this track online and downloaded it because it opened the door to Reks music for me. This is lyrical homicide.
3. “Over” – Drake
The beat on this track is among the best of 2010 and along with “Beamer, Benz and Bentley” was probably the most reused by other MCs. It’s also the hardest track on Drake’s debut. While he rhymed (and sang) over some very mellow sounds throughout on Thank Me Later, Drake brings plenty of energy for Boi-1da’s upbeat production. Royce and Em are among those that flipped this beat and destroyed it, but Drake’s original was executed just right.
2. “Devil In A New Dress” – Kanye West feat. Rick Ross
I could’ve picked the first four tracks off My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy for this spot, or “Runaway” or “Blame Game,” but after going back and listening to the album repeatedly (and repeatedly), “Devil In A New Dress,” stands out as my favorite track on the album and therefore is the right choice for the No. 2 spot. I had the Rick Ross-less version of this track from Kanye’s “G.O.O.D. Fridays” releases, but it didn’t make as much of an impact on me at that time for whatever reason. After the album dropped, this song just stood out for me. I can’t explain it, it just took on a new life for me. “Runaway” was a tough omission here as well, as it’s a groundbreaking single, but Kanye doesn’t really rap on it and the last four minutes of distorted auto-tune was a little excessive.
1. “Dear God 2.0” – The Roots feat. Monsters of Folk
I remember going to a party on the day after Thanksgiving (or Black Friday) and sitting out in the garage listening to my iPod while discussing hip-hop with an old friend of mine (shout out to the Crime Dogg). We were talking about Kanye’s album, when I flipped to this song and my friend said, “The first time I heard this song it gave me the chills.” And that’s exactly how I felt the first time I heard it as well. The Roots created a masterpiece with this song. After turning Cody Chestnutt’s “The Seed” into pure gold on Phrenology, the Roots have achieved the same feat here putting their spin on the Monsters of Folk’s “Dear God” and turning a good song into an amazing song. Black Thought’s lyrics are among the best of his career as he spits, “Who does the blind lead?/Give me a sign please/If everything is made in China, are we Chinese?/And why do haters separate us like we Siamese?/Technology turning the planet into zombies/Everybody all in everybody’s dirty laundry/Acid rain, earthquakes, hurricane, tsunamis/Terrorist, crime sprees, assaults and robberies…”
Best Albums
10. The Adventures of Bobby Ray – B.o.B.
After hearing “Nothin’ On You” and both version of “Airplanes” I was intrigued by B.o.B. but not exactly sold. But Target had his CD on sale for $7.99 when it dropped, so I decided what the hell, why not? And I can honestly say it was one of the most listened to CD of 2010 for me. It’s much softer and poppier than most hip-hop that I like, but for whatever reason I found it very easy to digest and really enjoyed the disc. The first four tracks are all excellent, while the Janelle Monae assisted “The Kids” and the Em blessed “Airplanes, Part II” really pushed this disc to another level for me. It’s a fun album that has some depth to it and has a ton of replay value.
9. Apollo Kids – Ghostface Killah
After a bit of a letdown with 2009’s Ghostdini, Ghost limited the amount of time he spent talking to the ladies and went back to the streets on Apollo Kids. The album opens in grand fashion with “Purified Thoughts” featuring Killah Priest and GZA (which uses the same sample as Reks’ “This or That” as mentioned above) before leading into the Busta Rhymes assisted and super funky “Superstar.” Other favorites include “2getha Baby,” “In Tha Park,” “Ghetto” and “Troublemakers.” The only real missteps are the Jim Jones assisted “Handcuffin’ Them Hoes” (can someone please, please, PLEASE explain the appeal of Jim Jones? He’s a horrible rapper and his ad libs are just stupid. I could do without his music for the rest of my life. Seriously, NO MORE Jim Jones collaborations! And Raekwon put him on his newest album too. I just don’t get it!) and “Street Bullies” which finds Ghost spitting the hook and adding little else. Otherwise it’s another feather in the cap of the most consistent member of the Wu.
8. Nineteen Ninety Now – Celph-Titled & Buckwild
The concept behind this album was tremendous. In fact it knocks it past Ghostface’s album based on the concept alone. But then there’s execution and this album did deliver. As a throwback to the ‘90’s or “Glory Days” of hip-hop, Celph decided to dig up some old Buckwild production and let loose over it. He then brought along some friends (Apathy, Vinnie Paz, Ryu, Esoteric, Majik Most and Dutchmassive) as well as some ‘90’s staples (Treach, F.T., Sadat X, Grand Puba, AG, O.C., Diamond D and Chino XL) to create an album that gives a nod to the music of his heyday without sounding dated. There are a few songs that I could’ve done without, but overall it’s a solid project.
7. Live From The Tape Deck – Skyzoo & !llmind
2010 marked the year for nostalgia and Skyzoo and !llmind honored the golden era with their collaborative album. The title alone is a throwback to the days before MP3s and instant downloads. It’s the reason Only Built 4 Cuban Linx is referred to as “the Purple Tape.” (Yes, for all you young bucks, the cassette version of Raekwon’s classic album was actually in a purple case). I can remember making mixtapes all the time on my 90-minute Maxells and then letting those things pop and hiss in my walkman or car stereo. It was a simpler time. But back to Skyzoo and !llmind, the two combine for a vintage sound of some raw, underground hip-hop with excellent results. Among those featured on the album are Duck Down vets Heltah Skeltah and Buckshot, as well as underground favorites Torae, Styles P. and Rhymefest. There’s nothing groundbreaking here, just great hip-hop music from start to finish.
6. 1982 – Statik Selektah & Termanology
I loved the idea of making an album in homage to Gang Starr and Pete Rock & CL Smooth and Statik and Termanology certainly have that type of rapport. The opening track, “The World Renown,” is 5 minutes of Term going off on a head nodding, horn blessed beat from Statik. Seriously, if the whole album was as good as this track it would contend for the No. 1 spot in 2010. But there are a few missteps towards the middle of the disc when Term addresses the ladies on “Wedding Bells” and the Bun B assisted “You Should Go Home.” That’s not to say there isn’t plenty of hard hitting, old school sounding hip-hop joints to please the biggest critic including “People Are Running,” “Still Waiting” and the excellent collaborations “Goin Back” with Cassidy & Xzibit, “Thugathon 2010” featuring M.O.P. and the Inspectah Deck blessed “The Hood Is On Fire.”
5. Thank Me Later – Drake
I’ve already discussed this on this site, but let me repeat it here, this album is NOT, and I repeat NOT the 5-star classic that Hiphopsite said it was. I’m a huge fan of Hiphopsite and in particular DJ Pizzo, but he got this one wrong. I just listened to this again last week in preparation to write this column and I’m even more confused as to how this was given the 5-star treatment. It’s a solid debut. It’s worthy of a top-5 spot for 2010. But this doesn’t even enter the conversation of all-time greats. Now there is plenty to like about the album and Drake really does showcase his talent both as an MC and a vocalist throughout. And it is a very cohesive album and flows together really well. The first four tracks are all standouts, as are “Fancy” featuring T.I. & Swizz Beatz, “Light Up” featuring Jay-Z, “Find Your Love” and the Timbaland produced “Thank Me Now.” But “Show Me A Good Time,” “Up All Night” with Nicki Minaj and the Young Jeezy featured “Unforgettable” are all forgettable. Overall, it’s a really solid debut album. Just not one for the ages. (On a side note, if you wanna hear a great blend, start with The Roots “Dear God 2.0” and then let it play right into Drake’s “Light Up.” The transition from one song to the other is seamless and sounds like it was meant to happen.)
4. Recovery – Eminem
Em came back. Thank God! After Relapse and the return of Slim Shady, I was nervous we wouldn’t ever see the best Em again. And after hearing he had recorded two albums worth of material I got even more worried that we were going to have another album full of murder and rape with that damn accent. But Em decided to go back to the drawing board and delivered Recovery which took me back to the days of The Eminem Show. He bares his heart on “Talkin’ 2 Myself,” “Going Through Changes,” “Almost Famous” and the ode to Proof “You’re Never Over.” He also hit with another anthem style song as “Not Afraid” is a triumphant return to form for Mr. Mathers. Then there’s his lyrical side on “Cold Wind Blows,” “On Fire” and “No Love” where Em decides to remind the world that he can absolutely destroy the mic. And we haven’t even gotten to the biggest smash on the album, the Rihanna assisted “Love The Way You Lie” which takes a very vivid look into an abusive relationship. Recovery isn’t on the same level as Em’s first three albums, but it’s certainly ahead of Encore and Relapse and was a welcome return to form.
3. Sir Luscious Leftfoot: The Son of Chico Dusty – Big Boi
Truthfully when this album came out I wasn’t overly excited about it. On one hand, it was a Big Boi album and I’ve always preferred both Big Boi and Andre 3000 to be making music together, not doing solo projects. Also, it dropped only 2 weeks after Em’s Recovery and The Roots How I Got Over, so I had two albums that had just been released in heavy rotation at the same time. But I did get the album on the day it dropped and decided to give it a listen. I’m so glad I did. This is not an Outkast album, but it does feel like a continuation of Speakerboxxx and I mean that as a major compliment. Big Boi brings back that Southernplayalistic feel on this disc. “Daddy Fat Sax” kicks the door down to open the album and Big Boi never lets go over the next 14 tracks. “General Patton” is my favorite on the album, as noted above, but there are so many highlights on this disc and so many of my true favorite songs of 2010. If I didn’t limit my Best Songs list to one song per album, I’d potentially have two or three more songs from this album it’s that damn good. “Fo Yo Sorrows” with George Clinton and Too $hort, “Follow Us” featuring Vonnegutt, “Be Still” with Janelle Monae, “Shine Blockas” featuring Gucci Mane (seriously, I didn’t think I would ever say “Gucci Mane” and “damn good song” in the same sentence, but yes it really happened) and “The Train, Pt. 2” are all Best Song candidates. There’s only one song I skip over and that’s “You Ain’t No DJ” featuring Yelawolf, which was actually released as a single. Chalk this one up as another win for one half of Outkast.
2. How I Got Over – The Roots
The Roots have been one of my favorite groups for over 15 years now. They have yet to release an album that I haven’t liked and they have stepped outside the box time after time with their music. After releasing some of their darkest music on Game Theory and Rising Down, the Roots went for a much mellower sound on How I Got Over. The music is truly mood music and deals with a lot of grown up topics as Black Thought spends his time on the mic giving social commentary on topics ranging from natural disasters to the age of technology, as well as offering some hope and better days at other moments. It’s brilliant, mellow and thought provoking. It’s also an album without any real flaws, as it plays out in its entirety without having to hit the skip button. Also features guests verses from Phonte and Blu who blend with The Roots sound beautifully, as well as the usual suspects like Truck North, P.O.R.N., Dice Raw, Peedi Peedi and John Legend. The best tracks are “Walk Alone,” “Dear God 2.0,” “Radio Daze,” “Now or Never,” the title track, “The Day,” and “The Fire.” Or in other words almost the entire album. And the other songs like “Right On” and “Doin’ It Again” are still miles ahead of most rap songs.
1. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy – Kanye West
Let’s just get this clear, this album is NOT a classic. It’s excellent. It’s the best album of 2010, hands down. It’s the best hip-hop album to drop since Kanye’s Late Registration which dropped five years prior. And it’s certainly worth adding to your collection. But much like Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II, it’s not worthy of the 5-star treatment that so many publications laid on it. “So Appalled,” “Hell of a Life,” “Lost In The World” and “Who Will Survive In America” could have all been replaced with songs from Kanye’s “G.O.O.D. Fridays” releases. And classic albums don’t have interchangeable parts. Now that we’re done with that part, let’s get down to the good stuff. This is an outstanding album. Although it was released on a Tuesday, I knew my local record store put out new releases the Friday before the actual release date, so I drove out of my way after work on a Friday night to pick up the disc. I popped the CD into my car stereo and was blown away. After the first 6 tracks, I was ready to use that “classic” word that I’m very hesitant to throw out there. And “Devil In A New Dress,” “Runaway” and “Blame Game” only helped solidify that amazing quality. “Blame Game” has become one of my favorite songs from the disc and I’ve been listening to that song like crazy over the past few months. If “Good Friday,” “The Joy,” “Christian Dior Denim Flow,” and “Don’t Look Down” would’ve replaced the four missteps (if you want to call them that) I listed above, then this would’ve been worthy of that “classic” label. Instead, it’ll go down as an outstanding album that was far and above any other hip-hop album to drop in 2010 and the best hip-hop album to be released in a 5-year span, which is nothing to sneeze at.
So that’s it for the Best of lists. It’s been an extremely long process and I’m sorry I’ve slowed down on delivering these lists, but it took a lot of time to research, to relisten and to come up with the words to describe what all these 400 songs and 200 albums have meant to me. It’s been a pleasure to write and I hope you’ve all enjoyed reading these lists as much as I’ve enjoyed writing them. And more importantly, I hope I was able to introduce you to some amazing hip-hop music. Of course this series will continue after the New Year with the Best of 2011, but until then I’ll be working on some other ideas for this blog. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Song of the Day (R.I.P. Heavy D)
Heavy D - "You Can't See What I Can See (MTV Studio Performance)"
Sad news yesterday as Heavy D passed away outside his home at the age of 44. I never really got into Heavy D's music, but he did have a lasting impact on hip-hop. He brought some commercial light onto the genre with hits like "Now That We Found Love" and "Nuttin' But Love." He also launched the careers of Pete Rock & CL Smooth, for which us hip-hop heads will forever be grateful. Heavy seemed like a great guy from his public appearances and enjoyed some time on the big screen in The Cider House Rules and the small screen on shows like Bones and Boston Public. Of all his songs, this was certainly my favorite as it featured Flavor Flav on the hook. This video is from a live performance on Yo! MTV Raps, one of my favorite shows as a kid. Enjoy it and Rest In Peace Heavy D.
Sad news yesterday as Heavy D passed away outside his home at the age of 44. I never really got into Heavy D's music, but he did have a lasting impact on hip-hop. He brought some commercial light onto the genre with hits like "Now That We Found Love" and "Nuttin' But Love." He also launched the careers of Pete Rock & CL Smooth, for which us hip-hop heads will forever be grateful. Heavy seemed like a great guy from his public appearances and enjoyed some time on the big screen in The Cider House Rules and the small screen on shows like Bones and Boston Public. Of all his songs, this was certainly my favorite as it featured Flavor Flav on the hook. This video is from a live performance on Yo! MTV Raps, one of my favorite shows as a kid. Enjoy it and Rest In Peace Heavy D.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
New Release Tuesday
Two releases to talk about today, both of the underground variety, and both available on Amazon for $7.99, so there's really no risk in taking a chance on either album. Up first is Mac Miller's official debut album Blue Slide Park. I have to say I've come around on Mac, as my first impression of him was, "so what?" Ironically, it was a song of the same title that he put out alongside Wale that got me to reconsider Mac Miller. 
I'm a huge Wale fan, so I downloaded "So What?" as soon as I found it. And I was shocked to be thinking, "Damn, Mac Miller just stole the show," after I finished listening to it. Then I heard his "People Under The Stairs" song as an ode to his Twitter followers and I really starting coming around. His guest spot on "82-92" with 1982 finally pushed me towards downloading his mixtape Best Day Ever. That mixtape is decent. I wasn't blown away, nor did I expect to be. And I'm sure Blue Slide Park will be the same.
I don't expect it to be the Album of the Year, but for $8, I'm willing to show him some support on his debut album. I've previewed some of the tracks and Mac is definitely sticking to his formula, which by all means isn't a bad thing at all. I imagine it's good backpack rap, with a few misfires, but all in all a solid debut.
Second album to peep is Pac Div's The Div. I mentioned this album yesterday as I picked "The Greatness" as my Song of the Day on Monday. Pac Div brings some good old fashioned West Coast underground sound and much like Mac Miller's album, I'm sure it'll be solid overall with a few tracks I'll end up skipping after my initial listen. Am I super excited for these albums? No. But do I think I'll be satisfied with both? Yes, yes I do. Go support these artists!
I don't expect it to be the Album of the Year, but for $8, I'm willing to show him some support on his debut album. I've previewed some of the tracks and Mac is definitely sticking to his formula, which by all means isn't a bad thing at all. I imagine it's good backpack rap, with a few misfires, but all in all a solid debut.
Second album to peep is Pac Div's The Div. I mentioned this album yesterday as I picked "The Greatness" as my Song of the Day on Monday. Pac Div brings some good old fashioned West Coast underground sound and much like Mac Miller's album, I'm sure it'll be solid overall with a few tracks I'll end up skipping after my initial listen. Am I super excited for these albums? No. But do I think I'll be satisfied with both? Yes, yes I do. Go support these artists!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Song of the Day
Pac Div - "The Greatness"
Pac Div's new album, The Div, drops tomorrow. Their 2010 mixtape, Don't Mention It, was a pleasant surprise and a true testament to West Coast underground hip-hop. This track here is produced by No I.D. and is absolutely tremendous. Truthfully, I was just looking at the track list for their new album in prep for New Release Tuesday and found this song posted online so I clicked and Wow! I'm listening to this song for the first time as I post this and I'm going back for more. Don't be surprised to find this song on the Best of 2011 Songs list as it's becoming an instant favorite.
Pac Div's new album, The Div, drops tomorrow. Their 2010 mixtape, Don't Mention It, was a pleasant surprise and a true testament to West Coast underground hip-hop. This track here is produced by No I.D. and is absolutely tremendous. Truthfully, I was just looking at the track list for their new album in prep for New Release Tuesday and found this song posted online so I clicked and Wow! I'm listening to this song for the first time as I post this and I'm going back for more. Don't be surprised to find this song on the Best of 2011 Songs list as it's becoming an instant favorite.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Song of the Day
Pusha T - "What Dreams Are Made Of"
New joint from Pusha T featuring a tremendous clip to open the track from non other than Ric "Whooooooo" Flair! I'm sorry, but deep down I'm a wrestling geek, so incorporating wrestling into hip-hop will win me over any time. The beat is pretty nice and Pusha holds his own. It's not a song I will be listening to for years and years, but it's still a fun listen thanks to the kiss stealing, limousine driving, jet flyin' son of a gun!
New joint from Pusha T featuring a tremendous clip to open the track from non other than Ric "Whooooooo" Flair! I'm sorry, but deep down I'm a wrestling geek, so incorporating wrestling into hip-hop will win me over any time. The beat is pretty nice and Pusha holds his own. It's not a song I will be listening to for years and years, but it's still a fun listen thanks to the kiss stealing, limousine driving, jet flyin' son of a gun!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Song of the Day
Common - "Blue Sky"
I saw the video for this track the other night on MTV Jams and then remembered that I had downloaded it and went back to give it another listen. Seriously, I'm so bombarded with music that I didn't even remember that I had this song, which is kind of sad, but also exciting as I was able to blast this on my speakers to start my day today! A great track as No I.D. hits another home run with his production for Com. The Dreamer, The Believer album is going to be ill! I've been waiting for a new album from Common and between this song and "Ghetto Dreams" I get the feeling it's going to be well worth the wait!
I saw the video for this track the other night on MTV Jams and then remembered that I had downloaded it and went back to give it another listen. Seriously, I'm so bombarded with music that I didn't even remember that I had this song, which is kind of sad, but also exciting as I was able to blast this on my speakers to start my day today! A great track as No I.D. hits another home run with his production for Com. The Dreamer, The Believer album is going to be ill! I've been waiting for a new album from Common and between this song and "Ghetto Dreams" I get the feeling it's going to be well worth the wait!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
New Release Tuesday
Only two albums to discuss today and I'm not super excited about either, but I have a feeling both will be good. The first is Wale's Ambition. For the record I'm a big fan of Wale. Unfortunately, I'm less than thrilled with his move to MMG, as I'm hoping the Rick Ross formula won't be passed onto Wale's music. 
The dude is at his best when he's crafting lyrics around specific topics and pushing the envelope creatively. Songs like "The Kramer," "Contemplate" and "Shades" show the type of talent Wale has. But if his second album features songs sounding similar to "B.M.F." then I'm not interested. That sound works for Ross, but Wale is a much more capable MC and has much greater depth lyrically, so I'm hoping the productions fits his style. I'll be listening, because I like Wale, but I'm going in with my guard up.
Secondly is Black Milk and Danny Brown's Black and Brown. The two collaborated on a track of the same name on Black Milk's Album of the Year to tremendous results. Not sure what an entire album will bring, but if it sounds anything like their previous work it should be a solid album from start to finish.
So both albums are definitely worth checking out and I'm sure I'll enjoy both. I'm just not running to the store to buy either. The fact that I have so much music to catch up on still probably does play into that as well.
Secondly is Black Milk and Danny Brown's Black and Brown. The two collaborated on a track of the same name on Black Milk's Album of the Year to tremendous results. Not sure what an entire album will bring, but if it sounds anything like their previous work it should be a solid album from start to finish.
So both albums are definitely worth checking out and I'm sure I'll enjoy both. I'm just not running to the store to buy either. The fact that I have so much music to catch up on still probably does play into that as well.
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