HotNewHipHop https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ The Latest Hip Hop News, Songs, Rap Albums & Music, Gossip & Entertainment News, Sneaker Releases, Sports News, TV & Movies, Interviews, Culture & more Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:36:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 Virgil Abloh’s Air Jordan 1 “Alaska” Gets A Release Date https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963758-virgil-abloh-x-air-jordan-1-alaska-sneaker-news Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963758 Virgil Abloh’s Air Jordan 1 “Alaska,” once an rare sample, now has an expected release date and showcases a clean Off-White design.

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Virgil Abloh’s impact on sneaker culture hasn’t slowed down at all. One of his most talked-about unreleased projects is finally getting its moment. The Air Jordan 1 “Alaska,” a sample that’s been floating around in grainy photos and early leaks for years, now has an official release date.

This pair was part of Virgil’s continued push on the AJ1 after the massive success of the Off-White “Chicago” and “UNC.” It never made it into The Ten, but it always felt like a design he wanted out in the world.

The “Alaska” theme leans into a cold, frosted look. Icy blue tones, soft cream panels, light translucency, and all the Off-White details are here. You get exposed foam, deconstructed construction, floating Swooshes, Helvetica text, and the familiar zip tie.

It’s a calmer, cleaner take on a silhouette that helped define modern sneaker collaborations. People have been waiting a long time for this shoe to move from rumor to reality. Now that a date is set, hype is guaranteed.

Overall, any Virgil Jordan release arrives with weight, but this one hits differently because it felt like it might never surface. The “Alaska” AJ1 finally steps out of the samples and into a real drop, and there’s no question it’s going to move fast.

Read More: Teyana Taylor’s Air Jordan 3 “A Rose From Harlem” Gets Release Date

Off White Air Jordan 1 “Alaska” Release Date

The Air Jordan 1 “Alaska” features a light, icy color palette with soft blue and cream tones. The upper mixes smooth leather, mesh, and exposed foam details.

Also the Swoosh appears detached in classic Off-White style. Helvetica text sits on the medial side in black. The midsole uses a subtle aged tint for a vintage feel. Blue stitching and a matching zip tie add contrast.

Further the tongue is padded and unfinished, giving the shoe a raw look and the design blends Virgil’s deconstructed approach with a winter-inspired theme. It feels simple at first but reveals more details the longer you look.

Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG “Alaska” will be released in the spring of 2026. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $195 when they drop.

Read More: Rumored Release Date For The Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4

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A Quest to Self-Mythologize – EP by Ghais Guevara https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963898-a-quest-to-self-mythologize-ghais-guevara Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:36:30 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963898 Ghais Guevara has had himself quite the year with an Album of the Year contender, and now, he is back with a special EP.

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With Goyard Ibn Said, Ghais Guevara cemented himself as an artist you absolutely need to listen to. In fact, the album landed on our Albums of the Year list. On Tuesday, Guevara surprised some of his fans by coming through with a five-track EP called A Quest to Self-Mythologize. This new project is short and sweet, with one single feature in the form of Child Actor. It’s an EP that is certainly going to be well-received by his fans, and we appreciate the variety in terms of the production. A solid listen that will help you get through the week.

Release Date: December 9, 2025

Genre: Hip-Hop

Tracklist for A Quest to Self-Mythologize

  1. Self-Medicated
  2. Grail Anthem
  3. Painnnn ft. Child Actor
  4. Manifest Destiny
  5. Rhizomatic

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50 Cent Issues A Stern Warning For Marlon Wayans Over Diddy Doc Criticism https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963877-50-cent-issues-warning-for-marlon-wayans-hip-hop-news Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:34:04 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963877 Marlon Wayans recently took issue with 50 Cent's new Netflix documentary about Diddy, "Sean Combs: The Reckoning."

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50 Cent has fired back at Marlon Wayans and his criticism of his new documentary for Netflix, Sean Combs: The Reckoning. In doing so, 50 shared a picture of Wayans from his iconic 2004 film, White Chicks. “Keep my name out your mouth boy,” he captioned the post

Wayans explained his issues with the project during an appearance on REAL 92.3 LA. “You can create any narrative as a producer and as a storyteller,” he explained when asked about the documentary. “I can create any narrative… It doesn’t mean it’s true. I can get interview. I can do this, I can get footage, and I could make you think this about that person. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s true. 50 and Puff have a long term beef. It’s personal. It’s between him and Puff but before it’s between the both of them, it’s between them and God. Puff’s down on his luck, and 50’s kicking a man when he’s down. If luck ever turns on 50, you gotta be careful what you put out. There’s a karma to every action.”

Read More: Gene Deal Claps Back At Misa Hylton For Calling Him Out Over New Diddy Documentary

Netflix’s “Sean Combs: The Reckoning”

Netflix released Sean Combs: The Reckoning, last week, and it’s been getting tons of attention. 50 Cent served as the executive producer, while Alex Stapleton directed the series. It features tons of celebrity appearances from Mark Curry, Al. B Sure, Aubrey O’Day, and more.

Diddy’s team has already responded to the allegations presented in Sean Combs: The Reckoning. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, they called into question Netflix’s decision to work with 50 Cent, considering his long-standing beef with Diddy.

They wrote: “50 Cent is a longtime public adversary who has mocked Mr. Combs for decades, posted fabricated accusations, and publicly celebrated his legal challenges. Even Mr. Jackson has admitted he was ‘shocked’ Sean ever filmed some of these moments, which underscores that the footage is being exploited for entertainment rather than presented with fairness or context.”

Read More: Diddy’s Ex Bodyguard Makes Bold Claim About 50 Cent’s Documentary Footage

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6ix9ine Labeled A “Dumpster Fire” By Judge During Sentencing https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963879-6ix9ine-dumpster-fire-hip-hop-news Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:31:44 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963879 Last week, 6ix9ine was sentenced to three months behind bars and 12 months of supervised release for violating the terms of his probation.

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Last week, 6ix9ine finally learned his fate after pleading guilty to violating the terms of his probation. Judge Paul Engelmayer sentenced him to three months in prison, along with 12 months of supervised release. During the sentencing, Judge Engelmayer made his feelings for the rainbow-haired rapper known. “You’ve been throwing resources at him but he’s still a dumpster fire,” he declared, per Complex.

He has also been ordered to complete both a drug treatment program and a mental health program. Hopefully, this will reduce any risk of him breaking the law in the future.

6ix9ine admitted to violating the terms of his probation in September of this year. According to him, he assaulted a man at a gym after being taunted over his infamous snitching scandal. “Me and another individual hit a person and it was wrong,” he stated at the time.

Read More: 6ix9ine Shares Surprising Weight Loss Plans For Three-Month Prison Sentence

6ix9ine Sentencing

6ix9ine during MiamiBash 2021
Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine performs during the MiamiBash 2021 at FTX Arena on December 17, 2021 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images,)

Before that, 6ix9ine pled guilty to two drug possession charges. The charges in question are linked to MDMA and cocaine that was allegedly discovered at his Florida home during a raid earlier this year. He was sentenced to three to nine months for the violations.

“Mr. Hernandez recidivated almost immediately,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Rebold wrote in a filing. “A sentence of imprisonment is necessary to reflect the seriousness of the defendant’s violations and to promote respect for the law.”

The sentencing took place a few weeks later than it was initially scheduled to, as shortly before 6ix9ine’s original sentencing date, his home was broken into. Multiple masked gunmen were involved in the home invasion, which took place when the performer was away creating content with Jack Doherty.

“They took that opportunity to f*cking do some p*ssy sh*t,” 6ix9ine said of the ordeal in a video shared on social media. “It’s me, so I get it. The rules are different for me.”

Read More: 6ix9ine Receives Three-Month Prison Sentence For Probation Violations

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Vision – Song by Common & 9th Wonder featuring PJ & Bilal https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963665-vision-common-9th-wonder Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:25:43 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963665 ESPN is putting out a new documentary on Stuart Scott, and to celebrate, Common and 9th Wonder have delivered a beautiful song, "Vision."

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Stuart Scott was a true visionary and he changed the meaning of what it is to be a sports anchor. Unfortunately, Scott passed away far too soon, and his loss remains a heavy one for ESPN. Soon, the network will be releasing a 30 for 30 documentary on Scott, and fans are excited to tap in. To help promote this new documentary, Common and 9th Wonder have teamed up with PJ and Bilal for a new song called “Vision.” It’s a beautiful track, with bars about Scott’s life, and the path that led him to being such a respected name in the media. The production here is just gorgeous, and we cannot wait to hear how it is used in the documentary.

Release Date: December 9, 2025

Genre: Hip-Hop

Album: 30 for 30 “Vision: A Portrait of Stuart Scott”

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Teyana Taylor’s Air Jordan 3 “A Rose From Harlem” Gets Release Date https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963753-teyana-taylor-x-air-jordan-3-a-rose-from-harlem-sneaker-news-2 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963753 Teyana Taylor’s upcoming Air Jordan 3 “A Rose From Harlem” features removable rose thorns and bold detailing.

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Teyana Taylor is adding her signature flair to Jordan Brand again, and this time she’s taking the Air Jordan 3 into her world. Her upcoming Air Jordan 3 “A Rose From Harlem” feels like a direct extension of her personality: bold, expressive, and rooted in storytelling.

Early mockups already have the sneaker world buzzing, especially because of one wild detail. The pair is expected to come with removable plastic rose thorns that wrap around the shoe, a nod to her 2018 song “Rose in Harlem.”

It’s an idea that sounds risky on paper, but perfectly on-brand for Teyana’s creative style. The base design uses a clean black leather upper paired with classic elephant print and bright red accents. Green hits on the eyelets and gum detailing on the outsole round out the look.

Even without the thorn accessory, the shoe would stand on its own as a solid AJ3 release. With the thorns, it becomes a statement piece. Right now, what we’re seeing is still just a mockup, but the general direction feels locked in.

A release date is already set. Expect plenty of attention when these drop. Teyana has never been afraid to push things forward, and this pair proves she’s not stopping now.

Read More: Rumored Release Date For The Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4

Teyana Taylor’s Air Jordan 3

The Air Jordan 3 “A Rose From Harlem” features a black leather upper with classic elephant print panels. Red accents hit the heel branding and lining. Green eyelets add a sharp contrast to the dark build.

Also the outsole uses a gum finish that pairs cleanly with the midsole. The mockup shows removable plastic rose thorns wrapping around the shoe and they sit across the upper and heel for a dramatic look.

Further, the design blends classic Jordan DNA with Teyana’s bold style. Even without the thorns, the color blocking looks strong. With them, the shoe stands out instantly.

@zsneakerheadz reports that Teyana Taylor’s Air Jordan 3 “A Rose From Harlem” is going to drop on March 4th, 2026. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $215 when they are released.

Read More: Kevin Durant Rocks Exclusive Travis Scott Air Jordan 1 Low “Texas Longhorns”

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Erica Banks Arrested For Alleged Intent To Distribute Ecstasy https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963853-erica-banks-arrested-ecstasy-hip-hop-news Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:49:17 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963853 Yesterday, Erica Banks was booked into the Dekalb County Jail on a charge of drug possession with intent to distribute.

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Erica Banks has run into her fair share of legal issues over the years. Yesterday (December 8), for example, she was arrested by Brookhaven police during a traffic stop. TMZ reports that the Love & Hip Hop star was booked into the DeKalb County Jail on a charge of possession of a Schedule II controlled substance with intent to distribute. At the time of writing, her team has not publicly addressed the arrest.

Per the outlet, an officer decided to pull her over after noticing a tinted tag covering the license plate of the vehicle she was in. They soon realized that the vehicle had dealer plates. Upon running them, they learned the vehicle had allegedly been marked as stolen.

She was then searched, along with the driver of the vehicle, Amani Dirton. Allegedly, several ecstasy pills were discovered in Banks’ purse, and marijuana was found on Dirton. They were both taken into custody and have since been released.

Read More: Erica Banks Claims Carl Crawford Did Not Pay For Her BBL

Erica Banks Arrest

Erica Banks at Trill On Wheels Hip-Hop Party Bike
Erica Banks during her birthday celebration at Trill On Wheels Hip-Hop Party Bike on October 27, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images)

This isn’t the only legal trouble Banks has dealt with in recent months, either. Back in August, the femcee was arrested yet again. That time around, she was reportedly trying to fly from Atlanta to Houston when she allegedly got caught with a stolen gun at the airport.

She was booked into the Clayton County Jail, though fortunately for her, she didn’t stay for long. She was released just over an hour into her stay. Shortly after the arrest, Banks’ team released a statement, insisting that the “Buss It” performer was innocent.

“It is our contention that when she was caught with this weapon, she had no idea it was stolen,” the statement began. “So she is not guilty of any offense. And once we get to court on this case, my job is to make sure this never becomes a part of her criminal history and to have these charges dismissed.” 

Read More: Erica Banks Arrested For Allegedly Bringing Stolen Gun To Airport

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Kendrick Lamar’s Lyrics About Drake Are Aging Like Fine Wine Amid Top5 Beef https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963852-kendrick-lamar-lyrics-aging-like-wine-drake-top5s-beef-hip-hop-news Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:48:46 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963852 Top5 has been furious with Drake for promoting Pressa's new album, "Press Machine II," on his Instagram Story

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Many fans on social media have been resurfacing some of Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics about Drake and his team amid the Toronto rapper’s falling out with Top5. Over the weekend, Top5 praised Lamar’s “Not Like Us” after taking issue with Drake promoting Pressa’s new album on his Instagram Story. In the time since, he has continued trolling his longtime ally while defending Lamar.

On the diss track, “6:16 in LA,” Lamar raps: “Have you ever thought that OVO is workin’ for me? / Fake bully, I hate bullies, you must be a terrible person / Everyone inside your team is whispering that you deserve it.”

When one user posted the lines on X (formerly Twitter), fans shared alternate theories as to why Top5 is going after Drake. “He’s simply hurt. He was team Drake when he could profit off of that proximity to drake. Now that Drake doesn’t need the fake love he’s cut off everyone who isn’t really loyal or beneficial to the boy,” one user wrote. Another added: “Is it just me or is top5 just out here realizing he can just hate on drake to get people talking about him?”

Read More: What Happened To Dr Dre & Kendrick Lamar’s “The Recipe” Music Video?

Why Are Top5 & Drake Beefing?

Top5 elaborated on his reason for feuding with Drake during an interview with DJ Akademiks. “Tell me that’s not crazy. He goes and posts my opp’s music,” Top5 said. He then clarified that Drake is aware of their beef, adding: “Pressa was supposed to perform at Wireless, and I told Drake if he lets this guy perform, it’s a problem. So, Drake pulled him out last minute.” He also revealed that he reached out to Drake about the situation before going public. “When I said this guy’s my opp, he wrote… ‘I’m trying to make Toronto look good.’ I said, ‘I’m gonna make L.A. look good tonight,'” he said.

On Monday, Top5 burried the hatchet with Hitta J3 and said of Drake in his DMs: “Man that nail polish guy a weirdo frfr.” Further speaking with Trap Lore Ross, Top5 trolled Drake for his defamation lawsuit against UMG, saying: “You don’t sue after you lose a rap beef.” Drake has yet to speak out on the situation.

Read More: Top5 Buries The Hatchet With Hitta J3 And Calls Drake A Nail Polish Wearing Weirdo

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Rumored Release Date For The Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/963709-nigel-sylvester-x-air-jordan-4-og-sail-cinnabar-sneaker-news Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=963709 Nigel Sylvester’s Air Jordan 4 OG “Sail/Cinnabar” releases in May 2026, featuring custom BIKE AIR branding and bold red accents.

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Nigel Sylvester is keeping his partnership with Jordan Brand alive, and the next chapter is shaping up to be one of his biggest yet. The BMX star is dropping the Air Jordan 4 OG “Sail/Cinnabar” in May 2026, giving fans a clean, classic take on the silhouette with a twist only he would try.

These early mockups show a shoe that leans into vintage tones but still feels sharp, modern, and ready to wear. The upper sticks to a smooth sail finish, which has become one of Jordan Brand’s most popular looks over the past few years.

The Cinnabar accents bring the whole shoe to life with bold pops of deep red across the wings, heel tab, and midsole. The big story, though, is the heel branding. Nigel swapped the traditional Nike Air for a custom “BIKE AIR” logo, tying the sneaker directly to his world of BMX and giving it a personal stamp.

Jordan 4s rarely miss, but collaborations like this hit even harder because they bridge sport, culture, and personality. Nigel’s previous pairs were instant sellouts, and this release feels like another lock. The clean palette, thoughtful details, and storytelling all click.

Read More: Tyler The Creator Wears Rare Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 “Varsity Red”

Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 OG “Sail/Cinnabar”

The Air Jordan 4 OG “Sail/Cinnabar” features a smooth sail upper with soft leather panels. Cinnabar red hits stand out on the wings, heel tab, and midsole.

Also the heel branding uses a bold “BIKE AIR” logo instead of Nike Air. A small red mini Swoosh sits on the toe and the shoe also has black midsole detailing and cream netting for contrast.

Further the outsole comes in sail for a vintage feel. The mix of sail, red, and black creates a clean and confident look. Overall it is a simple design with strong personality and clear Nigel Sylvester influence.

@zsneakerheadz reports that the Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 “Sail/Cinnabar” will be released on May 9th, 2026. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $230 when they drop.

Read More: Kai Cenat Flexes Nike Air Yeezy 2 “Solar Red” At Streamer Awards

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The 40 Best Rap Albums Of 2025 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/962374-40-best-rap-albums-2025 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/?p=962374 Today, we are taking a look at the 40 best rap albums of 2025, from underground darlings, to rap's biggest superstars.

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Ranking the best rap albums of 2025 is no easy task. This is something we repeat every single year, but it’s true. This past year, we got some massive albums from some of rap’s biggest stars. We also got a ton of albums from hip-hop legends. Overall, this has made it even more difficult for us to rank the year that was. Thankfully, our staff was able to lock in, and come through with a list that truly feels representative of everything that happened in 2025. From mainstream pop rap, to underground cult classics, HotNewHipHop presents to you, the Top 40 Best Rap Albums of 2025.

40. Larry June, 2 Chainz, & The Alchemist – Life Is Beautiful

Larry June, 2 Chainz, and The Alchemist deliver tracks full of personality and the chemistry to match.

39. Yeat – Dangerous Summer

When you have one of the best songs of the year on your album, your album is automatically a success.

38. FearDorian – Leaving Home

FearDorian continues to showcase his talent, and Leaving Home is a crowning achievement.

37. Mike Shabb – Fight The Power!

Mike Shabb is a Montreal legend, and Fight The Power! is another dope addition to his growing discography.

36. Lil TeccaDopamine

GTA Vice City music. Sounds like a great album to us.

35. Dave – The Boy Who Played The Harp

Dave is one of the best artists in the UK rap scene, and The Boy Who Played The Harp is yet another great example of the artist rising to the occasions and being a master of his craft.

34. G Herbo – Lil Herb

G Herbo is a beacon of consistency, and his new album Lil Herb shows us that he has not lost his step.

33. De La Soul – Cabin In The Sky

De La Soul are absolute legends, and their new project Cabin In The Sky is the perfect homage to their past, present, and future.

32. MIKE & Tony Steltzer – Pinball II

Pinball 2 was the perfect sequel to MIKE and Tony Steltzer’s collaborative album. This version is great, and it shows both artists bating 1.000.

31. Central Cee – Can’t Rush Greatness

Central Cee is the biggest artist in the UK right now, and Can’t Rush Greatness is proof that he will be a star for years to come.

30. Cardi BAm I The Drama?

Cardi B finally gave us her sophomore album, and it did not disappoint. It is one of the best commercial successes of the year, and for very good reason.

29. Wale – Everything Is A Lot

Wale came through with anthems, poetic ballads, and everything in between on his new album. This project just cements his status as one of rap’s greatest auteurs.

28. Backwxsh – Only Dust Remains

Backwxsh has always been a favorite here at HotNewHipHop, and Only Dust Remains proves why we’re right.

27. NBA YoungBoy – Make America Slime Again

NBA YoungBoy came home from prison and had the biggest year of his career. Make America Slime Again was a perfect distillation of his comeback, and it just so happens to have some great songs.

26. Armand Hammer & The Alchemist – Mercy

Armand Hammer, consisting of billy woods and ELUCID, teamed up with The Alchemist for a new album called Mercy, and as you can imagine, it was an album of the year contender.

25. OsamaSon – Jump Out

OsamaSon is an underground darling who has the ears of the youth. Jump Out is his magnum opus, and brings those underground sounds into the mainstream, once and for all.

24. Nino Paid – Love Me As I Am

Nino Paid kicked off the year the right way with Love Me As I Am, a project that has left a lasting impression on hip-hop this past year.

23. JID – God Does Like Ugly

JID’s album God Does Like Ugly was one of the most anticipated releases of the year, and if one thing is for sure, it is that there are plenty of dope collaborations and anthems to go around.

22. Mobb Deep – Infinite

Mobb Deep is one of hip-hop’s greatest duos, and with Infinite, they came back with a vengeance and delivered a project that long-time fans can be proud of.

21. Bruiser Wolf – Potluck

Bruiser Wolf has become a powerhouse over these past few years. His style may not be for everyone, but the creativity is just undeniable.

20. Tyler, the Creator – Don’t Tap The Glass

Not Tyler’s best by any means, but one of the most fun albums of the year. Tyler, the Creator wanted his fans to dance, and this album certainly accomplishes that goal.

19. Saba & No ID – From The Private Collection of Saba and No ID

Saba and No ID are masters of their craft, and when their talents get combined, you end up with a terrific album that is going to be one of the most enduring of 2025.

18. Open Mic Eagle – Neighborhood Gods Unlimited

Open Mic Eagle is an underground legend who deserves his respect and his flowers. Neighborhood Gods Unlimited is a testament to his dedication to his craft, and a project worth listening to. Over and over again.

17. MIKE – Showbiz!

MIKE appears on this list for a second time and for very good reason. Showbiz! was a gorgeous record, and one that is going to forever stand out in an already immaculate discography.

16. Navy Blue – The Sword & The Soaring

There are few records as beautiful as Navy Blue’s The Sword & The Soaring. The kind of album that grips you from the very first track and takes you on a journey until the very end.

15. Chance The RapperStar Line

Chance the Rapper took six years to give us his comeback record Star Line, although it was well worth the wait. An album full of emotional, introspective tracks that will grip you from start to finish.

14. Offset – KIARI

Offset’s solo albums always have big hits on them, and that is especially true with KIARI. One of the best pop rap albums of the year, and an album that is going to bombard you with hit after hit.

13. Mac Miller – Balloonerism

Mac Miller’s estate has treated his vault with extra love and care. Balloonerism is a perfect example of this. The project was recorded years before Mac’s passing, and it was unclear whether or not it would ever be released. However, his family got the right people together, and delivered something beautiful.

12. Rio Da Yung OG – Rio Free

Rio Da Yung OG was released from prison at the top of the year, and he immediately got to work with Rio Free. A project that his day one fans have been blasting on repeat since it dropped.

11. Jim Legxacy – Black British Music

Jim Legxacy is one of the best new artists coming out of the UK. Black British Music is a masterclass in both versatility and nostalgia. An album you can’t help but love.

10. Key Glock – Glockaveli

Key Glock is one of the most consistent artists in hip-hop. Every album is full of bangers, and you can’t help but tap in every single time, knowing the quality is going to be there.

9. Playboi Carti – MUSIC

Pulling an all-nighter just for Carti to drop MUSIC at 7 AM was an experience. While the album is not as good as Whole Lotta Red, you can’t deny the audacity of this album. Carti is on another plain of existence on tracks like “Radar” and “Crank,” making this a true delight to listen to, despite the 34-track runtime.

8. Che – Rest in Bass

Che’s Rest In Bass remains one of the best new underground albums of the year. While this sound is not everyone’s cup of tea, this album remains one of the best examples of this sound that you will find.

7. Ghais Guevara – Goyard Ibn Said

Ghais Guevara’s come up has been exceptional to watch. While he remains an underground artist, his songs have found their way to NBA broadcasts. Goyard Ibn Said is a marvelous album from the young MC, and one that you should give a listen to.

6. McKinley Dixon – Magic, Alive!

McKinley Dixon has been praised for his epic albums that are picked with lavish and jazzy instrumentals. On Magic, Alive! we get exactly that and then some. Dixon is oftentimes overlooked, but if he keeps dropping albums like this, that won’t be the case anymore.

5. Little Simz – Lotus

Little Simz is one of the best rappers in the world. Full stop. Every single album has been special, to say the very least, and Lotus is no exception. She is one of rap’s best album-makers, and we cannot wait to hear her evolution over the course of the upcoming decade.

4. Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist – Alfredo 2

When you put Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist together, you’re going to get something incredible. While it doesn’t reach the same heights as the first Alfredo, this remains one of the year’s biggest highlights.

3. Billy Woods – G******

Billy Woods is a master when it comes to concept records. His storytelling is intense, and his production choices border on horror. Woods had our best album of the mid-year, and for very good reason. This is an album we will never forget.

2. Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out

Clipse’s comeback record Let God Sort Em Out is easily one of the best albums of the year. Malice and Pusha T deliver some of their best work, and it’s hard to believe they haven’t rapped together in 15 years. Unfortunately, some mediocre Pharrell singing passages keep this from being our number one album.

1. Earl SweatshirtLive Laugh Love

Earl Sweatshirt is one of the best rappers in the world, and it’s time to stop pretending that he isn’t. Every single album is an album of the year contender, and his pen only gets better with time. Live Laugh Love is yet another opus from Earl. A true achievement in rap, and an album that will be adored and talked about for many years to come.

Let us know your favorite rap albums of 2025, in the comments below.

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