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Top Hip-hop Albums 2022

I have always said, it seem every other year Hip-Hop makes a return to reclaim the throne. I feel this year was an excellent year for Hip–Hop. Here are the Juke Joint’s top 5 albums of the year.

December 30, 2022

01

Kendrick Lamar

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Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

Kendrick Lamar continues to surprise not only his fans but the world as well. We truly never know what we are going to get from a Kendrick Lamar album but we do know it is going to be educational, inspiring and uplifting, with a hardcore twist. After five long years, Kendrick brings us an album of empowerment, emotional distress and most importantly, healing. The visuals he released with this album, not only are beautiful to absorb but they are culturally appropriate. “I said I do this for my culture,” a line from Shawn Carters, IZZO, Kendrick plays out this line very well with, The Heart Part 5. Which isn’t even on the album, but set us up very well for what the album had to say. 

02

Joey Bada$$

2000

“I could take five years off ‘cause my shit is timeless.” Joey truly lives up to this line with is latest album in five years, 2000. His lackadaisical voice over authentic Hip-Hop beats brings this album to life. Over the pass five years, Joey has stuck to his guns with verses discussing racism, love, black power and financial stability. This is one of those albums you roll a tight J to and let it ride out.  

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03

Pusha-T

It's Almost Dry

This drug filled album has some the best production from the entire year. The buildup for this album was projected all over social media once word was spread about the two mega producers Pharrell Williams and Kanye West were sol producers. It quickly became a competition on who could produce the best bet. Even a second edition was released separating the songs between the two. But Push rapped so effortlessly over every beat that I don’t think it even mattered. Who do you think is the better producer?

04

JID

The Forever Story

If you are unfamiliar with JID, I believe this album would be a great place to start. Although, this being his third studio album, I feel he has found his place in the Hip- Hop world. JID’s flow is so unique it’s hard not to be attracted to just his flow alone. This album is so well rounded. From dance tracks, to well thought-out family issues and love. “I got the shit you could play for ya momma, I got the shit you can play for the hoes.” 

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05

Freddie Gibbs

$oul $old $eparetly

Gibbs distinct voice and ab libing is probably what draws most people to him. This Hip-Hop enthused album gives us a chance to take a look at rap without too much singing or losing track of what the album is about in the first place. 

Runner-Ups

06

Kings Disease III
Nas

07

Birds Eye View
Cordae

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08

Ramona Park Broke My Heart
Vince Staples

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