Albums of the year, 2013.

Should probably get this list out before we forget that 2013 happened having done Mixtapes and Singles already its only right to finish with the best albums. Anyway, anyone who was anyone released an album in 2013, in all honesty I think it's been the best year for music for my generation. So lets begin....

10. 2 Chainz - B.O.A.T.S 2 #MeTime

The Atlanta native was up to his usual work rate of features with appearances here there and everywhere. So we are lucky he found time to make an album really, I think that's why we had some dud songs on the album. But where it was weak, it made up for it with good music (no pun, ha!) Some good features and standard verses from Epps, makes for a good listen.

9. French Montana - Excuse My French

I've usually been quite critical of French, to the point I didn't take this album seriously and didn't listen for a few months. With the shocking 'Pop That' and equally bad 'Freaks' as singles from the albums, why would I? But then the music spoke for itself to the point where those songs made sense where they were in the album. Right from the intro with a phone call from incarcerated rap partner Max B the project grows from strength to strength. It's a shame that the epic track 'Hey My Guy' didn't make the end product and was only a Best Buy Bonus as this would have been a perfect close to the album with Mac & Cheese sitting on one last track together.

8. Wiley - The Ascent

Coming out at the top of the year in Jan, the godfather of grime put out a great album with the previous summer smash 'Heatwave' and this coined endless anthems, with some fantastic features from the world of grime and from further afield. I imagine all us grime fans were happy to see 'Skill Zone' appear on the album for arguably grimes finest to have a showcase of their abilities. Having only 1 studio album left according to the man himself can this album be topped?

7. Joe Budden - No Love Lost

Believe it or not, this is only Budden's second studio album. He's had a long turbulent career but with this album it shows he is getting back to the top of his game. Along with this and LHHNY Budden had quite a good 2013. Released on the back of Super Bowl weekend Joe and his team went on the promo trail. With an epic single of 'She Don't Put It Down' tearing up airwaves for 3 months the album had a lot to live up to and releasing the remix and video days before the album released was perfect. Budden is one of the few artists I feel that puts their heart and emotions to use in the studio. This came to light on this album, with basics been covered in the club smash 'NBA' featuring French Montana & Wiz Khalifa to the emotional 'Tell Him Something' which features frequent collaborator Emanny where the pair go bcd and forth telling of their women problems as they do so well when part of SLV. As a die hard Budden fan it was strange hearing upbeat and lifting music, I expect in the follow up 'All Love Lost' that we will get a a Mood-Muzik-Esq Budden back, OLS4 on the track list?

6. Jay-Z - Magna Carta Holy Grail

#NewRules were in play. Regardless of this album, Hov had a good, no a great year. This was the icing on the cake. The Samsung deal had the world talking and billboard scratching their heads, come July 4th the questions were answered. A few videos of Jay and the super producers; Pharell, Timbaland & Swizz Beatz were put on L+T to wet our appetites to showcase them doing what they do best. As soon as the album begins we are treat to some now legendary vocals from Justin Timberlake over a Timbaland melodic then Mr Carter enters and turns the track on its head with the type of lyrics we know and love him for. Just when we listen to that we are hit with 'Picasso Baby' the ever present Hov, uses word play to showcase his current status but show he isn't stopping. 'Tom Ford' is the next track and we all took notice of who Tom Ford was, and that Hov pretty much killed off the Molly fascination that was taking the world, someone needed to. This Trap Music like song is what people have remembered from the album as anything that was hot in society Hov dismissed it. #NewRules. Personally track 4 was standing out for me immediately due to the monologue from the late Chad 'Pimp C' Butler over the start of the now iconic beat before the immortal words of 'FuckWitMeYouKnowIGotIt' is uttered from Rick Ross' mouth. This track was essential to show that the big money talk rap can be done and done well without brand name shouting.

I could go on reviewing every song on the album as it doesn't falter at all, in summary this album shows that Jay-Z is at the top of the game as well as his own, despite his business work and management he has still shown that he can make music, not just good music but great music at that.

P.S. I've got a great idea for a video for 'Versus' so if you want to make visuals, let me know Hov, ha!

5. The-Dream - IV Play

The hit machine that is Terius Nash is yet to make a bad album really, despite him saying that in his recent break away from Def Jam. This album was more than was expected, Nash pulled out all the stops and called a few friends. Got Jay-Z on the 'High Art' introduction Kelly Rowland, Big Sean & Pusha T featured and expressed themselves perfectly on their features he also managed to recruit soul legend Gary Clark Jr. to croon over a soulful production by Nash himself. Fabolous found himself with Nash on the first single 'Slow It Down' where both addressed that they weren't going to make "a mother fucking dance song" and stick to making the music that we know and love these artists for. This album also introduced us to a more grown up Beyonce with her appearance on 'Turnt' along with 2 Chainz, a very unlikely collaboration but if anyone was to make it work, it was The-Dream and he did. Each song fit perfectly into this album. The highest placed R&B album on this list, and quiet easily the best R&B album of the year. Would be nice to have another project from the Radio-Killa camp in 2014.

4. Drake - Nothing Was The Same

I don't think I'd be going too far if I was to say Drake may be the biggest musical star on the planet right now and he has done it without the conformity of what people have expected him to do with his music. The release of SFTB at the top of the year and then the follow up single some months later with 'Hold On, We're Going Home' couldn't have been more different, with the latter going on to be the biggest selling single of Drakes career so far. With these 2 songs and the unexpected release of 'All Me' with 2 Chainz & Big Sean, Aubrey was set up for greatness from this album. Each song was its own work of art and most could and probably will be singles, personally 'Worst Behaviour' and 'The Language' stand out on this album apart from the obvious. The obvious being the 7 minute work of art that gels the Jay-Z assisted 'Pound Cake' and the honest 'Paris Morton Music part 2' where Graham and Carter both reflect on where they are in life and what they've been through whilst over a haunting beat with Ellie Goulding vocals mixed perfectly with the Wu-Tang Classic 'C.R.E.A.M' in 'Pound Cake'. We are then launched into a very clever drum pattern for Drake to give us the next part of 'Paris Morton Music' where Drake lets his emotions run free about missed opportunities. A very honest close to the album.

3. Yo Gotti - I Am

A choice that I bet no one expected. The current king of Memphis, Yo Gotti delivered a very solid album. He's established himself over the years and has one of the most recognisable voices in rap due to his raspy tone and blunt lyrics. From the offset Gotti sets to what he does best and giving the gritty lyricism thats expected from him in the first 2 tracks before we are treat to arguably the best song on the album with the melodic 'I Know' featuring Rich Homie Quan. Even after this Gotti doesn't ease up the fast paced and brutal 'Sorry' and 'F-U' follow, the latter featuring Meek Mill so you can imagine that the intensity in the album is at a high. The album then takes quite a somber yet honest turn as Gotti opens up on 'Pride To The Side' before him and J. Cole unite for the ahthemic 'Cold Blood' where they take turns in telling stories with the eloquent delivery. Just as the album appears to be calm Gotti delivers the street anthem 'LeBron James' in all honesty if this song doesn't motivate you, nothing will. The intensity never drops on the album from this point having the 2 singles released from the album; 'King Shit' feat. T.I. (which was a show of solidarity after the none signing debacle of the summer) and the Trap anthem 'Act Right' featuring regular collaborators Jeezy & YG. The album stands 13 tracks long and just under 50 minutes long but at no point is there a low point, a very good project. Long live the king.

2. Pusha T - My Name Is My Name

Quite plain and simply, this album changed my life. It may sound a cliche but the level of powerful music on this album and honest lyrics held so much clarity int he word play it was hard not to be inspired. From the out set of 'King Push' Pusha sets out what the album means to him,

"This is my time, this is my hour, this is my pain, this is my name, this is my power. If it's my reign, then it's my shower"

When Pusha released the track list for this album, he was lambasted by the internet for the volume of features that he had on the album. Every song barring the first 2, the second being the single 'Numbers On The Boards' were the only song with just Pusha on. However, with a project as strong as this and the features used so well, why would anyone complain?
 Each aspect of this album is fantastic, whether its the motivation of 'Hold On' or 'No Regrets', the certain grammy winner '40 Acres' or maybe the soulful warnings delivered in 'S.N.I.T.C.H' no part of this project feels weak or wasted. Each song as strong as the other. Pusha carries this project with what we know him for, keen lyricism and dual meaning lines entwined with perfect beat selections. The wait was more than worth it with this album, its a matter of who will this be followed? Talk of a Clipse reunion would be a start...

1. J. Cole - Born Sinner

Desperate to avoid the curse of the sophomore album jinx, Cole had big shoes to fill. Having kept our appetites wet with the 'Truly Yours' series and then releasing the single of the year with 'Power Trip' there was only a higher height to fall from. However, Cole was not going to fall. What in fact happened was Cole delivered an album that cements him among raps elites.

When Cole said in an interview there would be no rap features on 'Born Sinner' a few eyebrows were raised but in true Cole fashion, an album produced by himself and done to his own ideas has not disappointed fans old and new. Cole's best part as an artist is his ability to tell stories, and get you visualising. This happens from beginning to end, whether its conversations with Beyonce or MLK growing up the lyricism to convey such apt points is pretty much perfect. Having single of the year, it would be expected that would be the best song on the album, this is far from the case 'Trouble', 'She Knows' or 'Let Nas Down' all stand out and thats not discounting the second single, the uplifting 'Crooked Smile' which featured TLC one of only 3 features on the album, Let's not forget Jermaine can sing and rap, ha! Don't be deceived though, its impossible to point the finger at one song to call it the worst as it does not exist on this album. A pretty much flawless album. The down point is; how will Cole and the Dreamville camp follow this up?

Honourable Mentions.

The Gifted - Wale,  MMLP2 - Eminem, New York City (A Love Story) - Mack Wilds, Yeezus - Kanye West, IANAHB2 - Lil' Wayne, Trill.O.G. (The EPilogue) - Bun B, Beyonce - Beyonce, The 20/20 Experience - Justin Timberlake, Trap Lord - A$AP Ferg

Singles of 2013

Last year was one of the best for releases and genuinely quality of music from my aspect. Some great singles made their way from album to airwaves, so here is a list of what I felt were the 10 best.

10. Daft Punk feat. Pharrell Williams & Nile Rogers - Get Lucky

When we all saw an advert at the same time with Pharrell's ageless face pop up and start singing the catchy hook, you could rest assured that it wouldn't be the last time we'd hear the catchy melody. Memorable on so many levels the funk enthused dance hit took the world by storm and deserves a place on this list. 

9. Rocko feat. Rick Ross - UOENO

I bet when Rocko coined this ridiculous acronym he didn't expect the slurry of remixes and controversy that came with it on the back of Ross' verse. Luckily the strength of the music and catchiness of the record kept it on airwaves and the phrase UOENO spread like wild fire across the internet and cemented Rocko's hit to be lodged in our minds for months on end. 

8. Ace Hood feat. Rick Ross & Future - Buggatti

I'll admit I didn't give this song the time of day initially, but when I went to see Joe Budden live in London 2 days after the song had hit the internet and his warm up DJ played this, you cannot deny the strength of the record. From the start of the recognisable hook by Future, followed by the 'turn up' ad-lib its hard not enjoy and be taken in and lost in the expense quotes from Ace Hood and Rick Ross.

7. Wale feat. Tiara Thomas & Rihanna Bad/Bad (Remix)

You know the strength a song when you are in a bar and women are drunk singing the chorus off key. This was one that proved it, the simple chords and strings across a melodic sound with the back ground sound of bed springs set the platform for Wale and Tiara Thomas to croon their way on the hit at the top the year then summer hit and Rihanna found herself on the remix. Usually I'm critical of Rihanna overly sexing things up but for this song she got it right, her and Ralph exchange racy lines between one another to make this more than a hit single. This will be heard for years to come.

6. Fabolous feat. 2 Chainz - When I Feel Like It

Fab announced this song by the cover art on Instagram and it excited me, Loso being one of my favourite artists ever and 2 Chainz my favourite artist over the last 12 months? surely this couldn't miss. It didn't. This song didn't seem to make everyone too excited, but for me it played and played very well. Each rapper known for their quotable punch lines delivered exactly what we'd want from them. Both artist's have had silent critics and to do a song like this to show the power that they posses musically only made sense to establish what we already knew.

5. Drake - Started From The Bottom

This record is one where you remember where you were when you first heard and the conversation you had straight after. Every time Drake has a new project, he finds a new song with a new sound and this was no different, his style changed, his sound changed and we had a new Drake. For the first time Drake had gone on a solo record and chose to acknowledge the star that he had become and get cocky with it, as he had touched on before this was the first time to do it on a solo record to a mass audience, and so many people joined that audience. Like it or not, this song will be referenced for years to come.

4. French Montana - Ain't Worried About Nothin'

I haven't always been a fan of Montana, he closed out 2012 with 'Pop That' which just didn't grab me. Then a few months later this single surfaced and it was exactly what was needed, a simple drum line, catchy chorus, simple verses and a snappy intro. having been in an arena when this song is played in a mix, showed the strength when 8,000 people sing along and time the notorious 'HHAAAANNNN' ad-lib to perfection. From this single and the 'Excuse My French' album, Montana would take my most improved artist award if there was one to be given.

3. Pusha T - Numbers On The Boards

Kanye let this fly by his twitter account on the day Jay-Z released 'Open Letter', surely after the phone call from Push himself? HA. The simple drums and minimal beat mixed with King Push's cocaine filled lyrics made this a stand out hit from the year. Each line, holding 3 or 4 meanings with precision timing and deliverance to the beat made for an emphatic hit and perfect first single for Pusha's coming debut album.

2. 2 Chainz feat. Pharrell - Feds Watching

Its fair to say that Pharrell had quite a successful year and his guest spot on this single made no difference, the signature drum sounds that we know and love Pharrell for were utilised and exploited to their hit potential by 2 Chainz, the first collaboration between the 2. This song was famously recorded straight after the grammy's from scratch with both men in the studio doing all the engineering themselves. The song had a fantastic summery feel with a hook that ford people to dance. 2 Chainz signature style came across over the strings and added verses that made for a great platform for his sophomore album. 

My favourite story about this particular song was, both Chainz and Pharrell turned up to Pusha T's album listening in New York and weren't allowed in due to doormen claiming they didn't believe they were who they said they were. At that point all Pharrell would need to do is sing a hook surely? anyway the 2 then took themselves to a club, told people at Pusha's listening and after the listening had Fab, Push, Kanye and a few other names in a club performing hit after hit for free just to provide entertainment for people in there. Wonder if those doormen are working now? 

1. J. Cole feat. Miguel - Power Trip

Myself being a massive fan of Jermaine Cole, was worried he'd suffer the same fate as many have previously of a amazingly strong debut album and subpar second album. Cole was delivering small doses of good music in his 'Truly Yours' series, then on valentines day he gave us an offering of a different kind of love story. Cole produced this himself so we were due a treat anyway, and this was a real treat, starting with a simple melody, the beat then builds into a slowed down drum pattern with the overall beat coming together with the memorable tune. When we hear 'got me up all night' the goosebumps begin to show then the first verse hits and Cole does what he does best and begins to tell a story through his verse, then Miguel and his noticeable lyrics come in and we know we are witnessing a hit. Currently the second biggest selling hit of Cole's career, no disappoints were anywhere near Cole or his Dreamville camp in 2013. 

2013 in Review, best Mixtapes/Free projects

That time of year where I remember my blogger password to record the best things of the year has come round again, set kick it off with Mixtapes.

10. Nipsey Hussle - Crenshaw

The first $100 project? or free download? #NewRules and all that. Anyway, Nip hasn't made too much noise since Jan and then this came around and he made quite a solid project, arguably the best from the west in 2013.

9. Meek Mill - Dream Chasers 3

Can't lie, after DC2 and THAT intro on the 'Dreams and Nightmares' album I was expecting a earth shattering project, sadly it wasn't quite that but was a good project from Meek but he still delivered the anger that we listen to a Meek/MMG project for.

8. Cam'Ron - Ghetto Heaven

The DipSet general returned after a hiatus to give us quite an ample project much like how he last left us. well used features and humorous skits, I think we can all agree we'd like to see Cam with another project in 2014.

7. Trae - I Am King

I've been a fan of Trae for as long as I can remember and when he signed with T.I. I was quite dubious, but I think 2013 was potentially the best year that Trae has had in his career. This mixtape made sure of it, great features and going back to that 2004 classic H-Town sound we know and loved Trae really hit form again with this project.

6. Slim Thug - Boss Life

The second entry in my top 10 from a Houston native, again much like Trae, Slim Thug went back to the H-Town sound and threw out some great tracks. After finally burying the hatchet with Z-Ro, made some fantastic collaborations and the sound transferred onto this project, with all the key players making an appearance has set things up for maybe a southern takeover in 2014?

5. Pusha T - Wrath Of Cain

Let's be honest, this project got looked over, came out the first week in Jan. featured the hits 'Blocka' and 'Millions' yet we still have people saying that King Push wasn't doing anything and stalling over his album? he gave out this for free as he didn't like the songs for his album. If he didn't like this I think we should all be scared of what he is going to do next.

4. J. Cole - Truly Yours 2

Cole had this year, quite simply and when this snuck onto the internet late at night at it caused waves. Hearing a collaboration with Jeezy which was long over due on the inspiring 'Kenny Lofton' was a treat in itself. At only 6 songs, TY2 was Cole's was on answering critics and setting records straight with 'Cole Summer' he addressed any silence and get us all geared up for what became a Cole Summer.

3. Troy Ave - New York City

If I was to pick a project that came out at the right time it would be this one, NYC came out within a week of Kendrick Lamar's 'Control' verse where the west coaster claimed to the king of NY. This got a lot of people talking, but Troy Ave came out and answered with a very strong project, this was the project that got people excited about new talent from New York again, after a potential knock out punch had been delivered.

2. 360 - Beginning of Forever

Another NY native to add to the list, The Queens native won this award from me last year and to come second again this year shows the strength of the artist and the positive career ahead of him. 360 is becoming a big deal, the song 'Nighlife' is slowly doing the rounds to nothing but praise and the addition of the now classic 'Own Thing' is a solid backbone to a pretty much flawless project. He has one sold out show at the legendary S.O.B.S, I sense that it will be first of many.

1. Fabolous - Soul Tape 3

The Brooklyn native kept us waiting over the year, the release of a few singles and freestyles had us expecting, then as 12.25pmEST on christmas day Loso released the third instalment of this wonderful trilogy. The classic Fab punch lines and quotables are prevalent throughout and then 'Cuffing Season' happens, I expect this song alone has exposed a lot and opened a lot of eyes worldwide. Every line could be a quote at one time or another. As far as I'm concerned Fab has always been in my top 5 DOA list and this project seals his place on this list. 

2012, The Best Verses

What makes a good verse? something thats memorable and makes you know that you have just to something special. Guests verses and lead verses are both included.

10. Bun-B on Purple Swag Remix by A$AP Rocky featuring Paul Wall, Bun-B & Killa Kyleon

The O.G. of rap has had a quiet year, but when he comes about he puts on his best work. One artist who I feel can stand the test of time, RIP PIMP C.

9. Meek Mill - Dreams & Nightmares Intro

Never has one man changed the concept of a song so fast in one bar. The change at 1:38 to the middle verse truly makes you question your personal work ethic.

8. Scorcher on E.T. By Kano featuring Wiley, Wretch 32 & Scorcher

The north London MC, took to the beat and used all his abilities to deliver an amazing verse with the grime scenes other 3 heavy weights. Personally I still feel Scorcher is the most talented artist under used and over looked in the UK.

7. Joe Budden from Truth or Truth (Part 1) by Slaughterhouse

Joe Budden has had a lot of  personal battle over the last year, we all know about them. Not through media or slight talk but through honesty in his music and the pain and struggles of relapsing and not being able to control his own life was brought to us in such detail you can picture it in this epic verse.

6. Andre 3000 on Sixteen by Rick Ross & Andre 3000

I think when we all saw a Rick Ross song was 8 minutes long we all let out a sigh, right? luckily 3 stacks blessed Ricky's album  with a memorable verse as he glided smoothly over the beat and hit us with a nice hook, before we knew it we had finished the track and wanted more from Andre.

5. Diddy from Same Damn Time Remix by Future featuring Diddy & Ludacris

When a remix doesn't have Diddy on it, it seems wrong. He rarely blesses artists with his vocals anymore. With wetting our appetite on Wale's Slight Work Remix he then followed up with nothing but procrastination of the highest level, with such an ease "I can live your life and my life at the same damn time". He invented the remix, with verses like this we are glad he did.

4. Fabolous on Want You Back by Fabolous featuring Joe Budden & Teyana Taylor

Fab has been around for 11 years commercially and to be honest he isn't taken seriously enough as an artist. He sits comfortably in my Top 5 artists. On thanks giving he graced us with the Soul Tape 2, which featured a lot of fantastic word play, great songs and great verses. One stood out, speaking from the heart? maybe. He took to the microphone and delivered some fantastic wordplay more notably the Derrick Rose based 4 bars, by the time you have been able to decode his wording he has hit you with 4 more lines or equal magnitude.

3. Drake from Stay Schemin' by Rick Ross featuring Drake & French Montana

This verse came out in a time when Drake was at war with Common over the Serena Williams debacle. Rick Ross released the mixtape 'Rich Forever' but Drake stole the show with this verse on the projects closing track. The subliminal shots, numerous quotables, rapping to a beat, ad libs and memorable lines made for a perfect verse. The song came in January and there was talk of this being verse of the year already, it is not far off. We all still know Kobe Bryant's divorce was costing him on the strenght of this verse. "B*tch you wasn't with me shooting in the gym!"

2. Pusha T [Extended Verse] from I Don't Like by Kanye West, Pusha T, Big Sean, Chief Keef & Jadakiss

This verse almost didn't see the light of day. Lost in the mastering process, the GOOD music camp wasn't happy so the Virginia native took to the internet and put it out for us, thank GOOD he did. at just under a minute long it was a perfect length for what he put in. address many things and questioning peoples movements. Delivered with such passion, the rest of the song is background in comparison to this, we've all rewound it more than once.

1. Jay-Z from 3 Kings by Rick Ross featuring Dr Dre & Jay-Z

What would a year be without Jay-Z letting us know he was the king of rap? a Successful year all round. He took this verse to cement his status as untouchable. No direct shots were taken, he just made sure that even though he's not in the studio ever 5 minutes we know he still there and can deliver the work upon request. The verse was written within half an hour, he was sent the beat, vocalled and was added. Rick Ross pushed his album back for this verse, what a verse it was too. To the point a '1 King' version is available with just Mr Carter on. "now look at me I can park at my own arena".

Honourable mention goes to Loaded Lux for his final verse in his freestyle on 'The Large Picture' with it being a live freestyle battle, I didn't feel I could include it. It was heavily memorable with some very quotable line, the world over was saying "You gonna get this work" for months.

2012 Review, Singles.

This could be the most difficult to choose, or the easiest. Singles, released from album. Not individual tracks. That would be difficult!

10. Meek Mill featuring Drake - Amen

Originally taken from 'Dreamchasers 2' mix tape this made it to Meek's album and a video was put out which featured countless cameos from the usual suspects. Meek verses, Drake verse, catchy Drake hook. This had to be a hit.

9. Trey Songz - Heart Attack

Trigga returned with his 5th studio album in the summer and used this track as a launch pad. emotional lyrics that clearly spoke to millions. A sure fire hit.

8. Future featuring Diddy & Ludacris - Same Damn Time (Remix)

Its fair to say if you need a verse that needs ignorance and slick talk all over it theres one man to call, thankfully Future picked up the phone to improve his already catchy hit with Diddy opening and setting the bar a bit too high for the other two to reach.

7. SLV - F*ck That Condom

Joe Budden, Emmany & Parks got together to once again put out their quarterly offering of a track. it faced quite an opposition due to the title of the track as you can imagine. But the musical stylings of Joe Budden mixed with Emmany's crooning voice made a song that not many can complain with.

6. Slaughterhouse featuring Cee-Lo - My Life

This snuck onto the internet late march and was taking over before we knew it. Sampling 'Rhythm Of The Night' and applying the usual Slaughterhouse wordplay with a catchy Cee-Lo hook a winning song was no doubt on the cards. Joe Budden and Royce took a back seat and let Joell and Crooked have the majority of the song in their verses and they did mote than delivered.

5. A$AP Rocky feat. Kendrick Lamar, Drake & 2 Chainz - F*ckin' Problem

If you were asked to come up with a line up on a song that would be indicative of rap today its more than likely these are the 4 you would have come to. The initial shock of a 2 Chainz & Drake hook that manages to sooth yet get you excited at the same time takes you into the first verse and the song just glides. We have all had this on repeat at least once this year.

4. Big Sean x Kanye West x Jay-Z - Clique

Kanye did his usual trick of putting out a cover picture with black background and red text, naturally we all got excited at the thought of a Jay-Z verse. All 3 parties delivered and delivered well, with flawless verses. They come in with subtle ignorance and Jay-Z comes back to cement his status as the greatest living rapper. A smooth intro sounding like Frank Ocean and stunning adlibs do nothing but dd to the quality of this track.

3. 2 Chainz feat. Drake - No Lie

When this was released 2 Chainz was relatively unattached to anyone, or so we thought. Drake and 2 Chainz sat on this record together like Big Boi and Andre do with OutKast. Great production from Mike Will, some very memorable lines and great quotables. If you have chance to see this live its worth it as we all know what follows "right hand on the steering wheel..."

2. Joe Budden feat. Tank & Lil' Wayne - She Don't Put It Down Like You

If you ever look for a hero to zero to hero story again, look no further than Mr Budden. The self proclaimed 2 hit wonder on the back of this hit brought in a very unexpected collaboration with himself and Mr Carter and then drafted in R&B legend Tank. Potentially the catchiest hook to come out this year with fantastic verses. Simple with great wordplay. I remember being at the Mood Muzik shows in february when Officially Ice played this as the unmastered version and Wayne's verse came on, as you can imagine the crowd went wild for this. For long term Budden fans this song is more than a simple hit, it shows the lengths that hard work can bring out quality like this. When its eventual release came in November the anticipation was very high. Since the release an extended version has been announced featuring Fabolous and Twista.

1. Kanye West x Pusha T x Big Sean x 2 Chainz - Mercy

The line up alone says this single should be epic. It was. There were fantastic verses from each party, I can't think of anyone who can agree on who's verse is best. Even with a illicit inaccuracies from Ye' we all still know it works. The track itself is a heavily complexed piece which moves like a roller coaster finishing with energy from a 2 Chainz verse into the almost unrecognisable vocalled chorus. Big Seans completes it perfectly with the 'Swerve' ad-libs. Naturally Pusha T delivers a flawless dope-dealer story telling verse to complete the perfectly crafted hit.

Swerve.


Honourable Mentions

Rick Ross x Drake x French Montana - Stay Schemin', DJ Drama x 2 Chainz x Meek Mill x Jeremih - My Moment, Carly Rae Jepson - Call Me Maybe, French Montana x Rick Ross x Lil' Wayne x Drake - Pop That, Wiley - Heatwave, Scorcher - Its All Love, Jessie J - Domino, Tyga x Jeezy x Wale x Meek Mill x Fabolous - Rack City (Remix), Nas - The Don, Trey Songz x Jeezy x Lil' Wayne - Hail Mary, Slaughterhouse - Hammer Dance, Juicy J x 2 Chainz x Lil' Wayne - Bandz A Make Her Dance, Trinidad James - All Gold Everthing.

2012 In Review: Albums

Keeping going with these lists, be nice to see how they compare to RapRadar's list's when they get published at the top of next year!

anyway albums...


10. Meek Mill - Dreams & Nightmares

As far as a debut album goes, it's pretty damn good. Arguably one of the best intros to and album ever, from 1 minute 38 it makes you want to get angry. The project does dip a bit with a bit too much emphasis on talk about his watches etc and sadly Rick Ross' Penis.

9. The Game - Jesus Piece

Jayceon put out the best project of his career hands down. I think the option of the 'Sunday Service' additions really aided the project too. Hell of a lot of features and at no point was Game the best artist, but he made a good album.

8. Kendrick Lamar - Good Kid m.a.a.d. City

The saviour of west coast rap didn't disappoint with his debut album. It may have been expected to be higher on this list but personally I feel it didn't live up to much of the hype it was expected to come up with.

7. Big Boi - Dangerous Lies And Vicious Rumours

With a back catalogue like Big Boi has it was always going to be hard to make a good album. He didn't, he made an amazing album. Made an album the fans would love, and stuck the styles he knew and used features at the right time for the right thing.

6. DJ Drama - Quality Street Music

I rarely pay attention to things from DJ Drama (or DJ Khaled) but I was forced to take notice of this project on the strength of the quality and the level of the singles that came out. Obviously a lot of features but all played their part well. At one point I thought Future was almost average.

5. G.O.O.D. Music - Cold Summer

The Kanye fronted collective came out with a project that no one knew quite what to expect from it. As expected the beats and mastering were on point, some lyrics were questionable. Luckily Pusha T and 2 Chainz were sprinkled across the album to inevitably take it from a good (no pun) album to a great album.

4. NaS - Life Is Good

This is the album Nasir needed to make when he signed to Def Jam, a proper rap album. No gimmicks or angle at selling a million copies, just Nas at his level best. Even with a few pulling features Mary J Blige, Miguel, Rick Ross and a posthumous Amy Winehouse it was still classic rap at its finest.

3. The-Dream Presents Terius Nash 1977

Love him or hate him, Terius Nash talent can't be criticised. Every big album in the last 10 years he has played a large part in. His credentials speak for themselves. So when he announced he was to put out a free project, it set the internet alight. To the point where the response was so well recieved he was pressured to release it at a retail level. Had this not gone to a retail level, I'd have probably put this as my mixtape of the year.

2. 2 Chainz - Based On A T.R.U Story (B.O.A.T.S)

At the tender age of 36, it is never too late to release a debut album. Especially when its this good. Having being in rap for 18 years 2 Chainz had never made a break through, formerly Tity Boi he never got noticed. Then a few mixtapes happened. A song called 'Riot' happens. A Def Jam deal happens. an album is made. Not lyrical by any means, but what 2 Chainz does is tell stories and tell them well through his lyrics. Not only has he brought his own sound to rap, he brought Atlanta slang to the world. From the word go on 'Yuck' you know its going to be a lively album. All round solid project, 2 Chainz is here to stay.

1. Slaughterhouse - Welcome To Our House

Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz, Crooked I & Royce Da 5'9". Separately raps outsiders. Immensely talented outsiders. Arguably raps greatest story teller is amongst these 4. So when they were signed by Eminem, something special had to come, and it did. Die hard fans of the slaughter were worried that they may take a commercial turn and leave their lyrical talents behind. This was far from the case as could be heard in 'My Life' where word play was flowing through out; 'I bring a coat so I never get chilly, left eye. side kick'. They delivered emotion and stories that no one else could be capable of, from the loss of a loved one to even radio based disagreements.

Honourable Mentions; Ryan Leslie - Les Is More, MMG - Self Made 2, Rick Ross - GFID T.I. - Trouble Man, Miguel - Kaleidoscope Dream, Rihanna - Unapologetic, Wiley - Evolve or Be Extinct, Skepta - Black Listed, Ne-Yo - R.E.D, Yo Gotti - Live From The Kitchen, Maino - Day After Tomorrow, Trey Songz - Chapter V.

2012, Mixtapes. Top 10.

Thought I'd go for a RR feel to this, do some lists and the like.

Firstly mixtapes.

'This ain't a mix tape but the tapes mixed' - Jeezy 

All these projects are available for free, so have a listen.

10. Freddie Gibbs - 'BFK: Baby Faced Killa'

Gangsta Gibbs put out his final project under the helm of Jeezy, shame these two couldn't make it work.

9. Trinidad James - 'Don't Be S.A.F.E'

The Deacon, raps 10 months. 1 big song, signs to Def Jam. "Woooo".

8. Wiley - 'It's All Fun And Games Vol. 1'

The originator of grime put out classic grime with a collection of freestyles from various producers. great project.

7. Big Sean - 'Detriot'

I never liked or rated Big Sean, until this project emerged. Oh Gawd.

6. Slaughterhouse - 'On The House'

The Uber talented rap machine emerged with 2 projects in a week. Amazing body of work, All parts working.

5. Young Jeezy - 'It's Tha World'

Jizzle and DJ Drama combine to make another timeless project, Just like an album. Flawless and Jeezy at his best.

4. Rick Ross - 'Rich Forever'

This was meant to be the 'God Forgives I Don't Album', we all know it Ricky. This was far better than the album, and may even have had the best verse of the year on it had Jay-Z not taken to the mic.

3. Joe Budden - 'A Loose Quarter'

One quarter of the slaughter released his self proclaimed happy album. It was happy, was nice to hear an artist who has been so honest in his music previously battling numerous demons being different and uplifted but still telling stories, but of success.

2. Fabolous - 'Soul Tape 2'

Loso, enlisted help from friends old and new. He took to beats, old and new. Delivered some great verses, some very memorable. Lots very quotable. Used features, brought the best out of artists, arguably made better versions of other peoples tracks. No one listens to the original of 'Diced Pineapples' now that they have heard Cassie sing so soulfully "...and we f*ck all night till things get right".

1. 360 - 'Everywhere And Back'

The artist 360, a year ago. I hadn't heard of. I imagine most of you still haven't. He put out a 10 track project, with no large collaborations nor exclusive beats. All brand new and unknown, the only notable help on the project came from Carolina rapper J. Cole. The project was articulate, honest and very listenable. It catered to every need, had the track we would all love to hear "Lovin' You Tonight" on it. Big things are sure for the artist 360. Work with Freddie Gibb$ and Jadakiss on his latest Remix will no doubt catapult him to stardom.