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TOP ALBUMS OF 2025
Written By: Jewels Alexandria
(8 MINUTE READ)
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It feels as if every year we say, “This was a great year for hip hop.” And maybe every year truly is great. But 2025 will be one of the years worth remembering. My theory that hip hop is only good every other year was completely shattered this year.
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For starters, Clipse came out of retirement and truly lived up to their legacy—some would say even exceeded expectations. In other news, hip hop moguls also returned. Artists like Slick Rick, who dropped Victory, received praise from critics for his timeless storytelling ability, while Ghostface Killah released Supreme Clientele 2.
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Beyond the pioneers, today’s generation also delivered some incredible work this year. Check out The Juke Joint’s top album releases of 2025—and let us know yours.
Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out (9/10)​
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The return of Clipse could not have come at a better time, and the duo did not disappoint. The praise this album has received is well deserved. The beat selection is spectacular, and the content has matured—especially from Malice, who has been missing from hip hop for many years. There is a clear lesson embedded within this beautifully crafted project.
JID - God Does Like Ugly (8.2/10)
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This album is gritty and personal. “It’s an ugly project; things were meant to be a little uncomfortable,” JID told Cole Cuchna of the Dissect Podcast.
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Known for upbeat, energetic music, JID places listeners directly in front of the madness on God Does Like Ugly, forcing us to truly listen to the lyrics. JID is well on his way to G.O.A.T. status.
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Ray Vaughn - The Good The Bad The Dollar Menu (7.8/10)
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A very personal album that takes a hard look at the ugly side of motherhood. A bold and courage album that many of us don’t have fortitude to do. “Last night I only had sleep for dinner.”
Joey Bad$$ - Lonely At The Top (7.5/10)
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Joey stirred the pot at the start of the year with “The Ruler’s Back,” taking aim at the entire West Coast. Maybe he felt left out of the beef that shook the culture—who knows—but he received responses from MCs like Daylyt, Ab-Soul, Ray Vaughn, and others. Fun times for hip hop.
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His release of Lonely at the Top lived up to all the talk, as expected. This New York–rooted hip hop album gives us a sense of nostalgia and reminds us what the love of the culture truly looks like.
Alchemist & Freddie Gibbs – Alfredo 2 (7.5/10)
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The Alchemist may have defined the sound of 2025. Appearing multiple times throughout the year, he is finally receiving his flowers as a super producer.
Freddie Gibbs is one of those artist who you just have to listen whenever he drops. And if you heard Alfredo in 2020, hearing there was Alfredo 2 felt like Christmas morning. Gibbs lackadaisical flow over Alchemist beats go together like peanut butter and jelly. Do you think Alfredo’s follow up was justified?
HONORABLE MENTIONS
KEY GLOCK - GLOCKAVELI
GUNNA - THE LAST WUN
WIZ KHALIFA - KUSH + ORANGE JUICE 2
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Alchemist, Larry June & 2-Chainz – Life Is Beautiful
CLEVELAND HIP HOP
We must not forget our very own Cleveland artists, who are releasing some incredible music as well. Without underground music, we wouldn’t know the feeling of grind or determination. The emotion and passion would be lost, leaving only mainstream artists with five-plus writers and five-plus producers per album.
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Underground music reminds us what eagerness looks like, what gratitude sounds like out loud, and why working toward a fulfilling life is better than settling. Check out our picks below.
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If there are albums you think we need to hear, please comment at the end of this article.
Joey Aich - Moments Like These (9/10)
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Joey Aich’s music exists in a space between underground and commercial—but with far more hunger and passion. It’s exactly what’s missing in music today. Moments Like These is a complete project in every sense: production, content, and flow.
This cohesive album feels like a Breath Of Fresh Air. Every album, single, and feature showcases his growth, while Moments Like These reflects a deeper level of confidence.
Darionne - Before The Coffee’s Cold III (8/10)
“I want to be able to have the conversations with those I love before it is too late,” says Darionne about his Before the Coffee’s Cold series. This third installment ties the projects together, leaving listeners with the thought: “I need to call them.” A heartfelt project filled with meaningful lessons. Every track presents a nod to Hip Hop and displays his true knowledge of the art form.
West Side Lo - Alignment (7.5/10)
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Beat selection is essential when creating a project, and Lo clearly understands that. A true fan of hip hop, Alignment is filled with healing, reflection, and life perspective that resonates with dreamers.
Armand Rashad - Unapologetically HIM (7.3/10)
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Rashad’s image is instantly captivating—his coolness alone makes you want to hear what his music has to offer. Over tough beats, Armand Rashad casually raps about cars, girls, and money, explaining exactly why he is Unapologetically HIM.
Rhythm & Blues
While many focus on the state of hip hop, few seem concerned with its foundation: Rhythm & Blues. Even labeling it R&B/Soul doesn’t feel accurate anymore. The rhythm remains, and there is certainly no shortage of blues—but the affection and warmth have faded.​
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Will there be a savior like Kendrick or Nas to remind us of its roots? A time when “old” music wasn’t criticized or boxed into age groups? Or will it be absorbed into pop altogether? While singles still shine, full projects often disappoint. Change is inevitable and necessary for growth, but dismantling the foundation is heartbreaking.
Here are a few albums that crossed the radar.
Teddy Swims – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (8.5/10)
Teddy Swims mesmerizing voice took the music world by a storm. I’ve tried everything but therapy (Part 2) was released early in the year and continued the beauty.
Alex Isley – When –EP (7.8/10)
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Alex Isley switches up her style on this EP, becoming more courageous and purposeful with her lyrics. This seductive project shows a more mature side of Isley—one that always lingered beneath the surface but is now fully embraced. She allows fans into her desires, unapologetically.
Wale -Everything Is A lot (7.5/10)
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Everything is a lot—all the time. Wale’s struggles with recognition can be frustrating and may even push listeners away, but his ability to blend R&B melodies with hip hop is undeniable. It’s a sound sorely missing from rap music today.
Joy Crooks - Juniper (7.2/10)
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Joy Crookes reminds us what jazz and blues singers used to sound like—an Amy Winehouse, if you will. Juniper is a relaxing, mood-setting album that feels like time travel. It places you in a dimly lit speakeasy, cocktail in hand, as she sings directly to you—like you’re the only one in the room.
One drawback is that some songs sound similar as the project progresses. Nonetheless, it’s beautifully done.
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Isaiah Falls - Lucky You -EP (7/10)
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​Who is Isaiah Falls? Apparently, I’m late to the party. His star-studded EP, Lucky You, features SiR, Alex Isley, Chase Shakur, and Joyce Wrice. In just six tracks, Falls captivates listeners with smooth basslines, seductive lyrics, and melodies that place you in a trance.
HONORALBE MENTIONS
MARIAH THE SCIENTIST - HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY
DESTIN CONRAD - LOVE ON DIGITAL
POP/ALTERNATIVE
Pop music is for everyone—a style that is fun and universal. It’s the music we love to hate, yet it collectively shapes the world around us. Then there’s alternative: a smooth, laid-back style of music that offers something different. There are many fantastic, world-famous artists who have mastered this sound, turning it into an art form that will always be around. Here are a few albums that stood out for The Juke Joint.
Lola Young – I’m Only F**king Myself
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​The London-born singer captured American hearts last year with her hit single “Messy.” Although not her first full project, I’m Only F**king Myself is the first release fans eagerly anticipated after the success of “Messy.” This energetic and purposeful project explores heartbreak, youthful struggles, and much more.
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Gigi Perez - At The Beach In Every Life
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Only if you were sleeping under a rock did you miss the contagious single “Sailor Song.” A nostalgic track filled with feelings of freedom, it serves as the perfect introduction to the album. Gigi makes music that simply feels good—calm, happy, and almost outdoorsy. In a world full of sadness, a little upbeat guitar can feel like exactly what we need sometimes.
Blood Orange - Essex Honey
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​Blood Orange is a unique musician who is never afraid to step outside the box. This electronic/alternative album explores sounds that make your ears dance, offering an experience that feels both experimental and immersive.
December 21, 2025