Hip-hop culture has birthed many talented rappers, some of whom rhyme words without a second thought, and some spit lines as smoothly as butter on bread. In this article, You will see a list of the 100 best hip-hop albums of all time and why they are known as the best.
Rap music by far is the most challenging music genre as it involves tricky wordplay, and the ability to have a rapid flow. Let us also not forget the need to put together beats and melodies that catch the listener’s attention. All of the alums in our list have these skills combined beautifully by multitasking legends.
Here are the 100 best hip-hop albums of all time
- Ready to Die
- Illmatic
- Stankonia
- The Marshall Mathers LP
- Pink Friday
- It takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back
- The Blueprint
- Miss E, So Addictive
- To Pimp A Butterfly
- My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
- Paul’s Boutique
- The Chronic
- The Infamous
- Enter The Wu-Tang
- The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
- Paid in Full
- The Low End Theory
- Me Against the World
- Take Care
- Hard Core
- Death Certificate
- Lord Willin’
- Supreme Clientele
- It’s Dark The Hell is Hot
- Doggystyle
- Invasion of Privacy
- Da Drought 3
- Madvillainy
- DS2
- Reasonable Doubt
- Ridin’ Dirty
- Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…
- All Eyez On Me
- Aquemini the
- Finally Rich
- AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted
- Get Rich or Die Tryin’
- Supa Dupa Fly
- 3 Feet High and Rising
- Food & Liquor
- Call Me If You Get Lost
- Acid Rap
- No One Can Do It Better
- Good Kid, m.A.A.d City
- Cypress Hill
- Late Registration
- Long Live The Kane
- Critical Beatdown
- Straight Outta Compton
- Run-D.M.C.
- Strictly Business
- Liquid Swords
- Mama Said Knock You Out
- Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1
- Donuts by
- Summertime ’06
- Things Fall Apart
- All Hail the Queen Queen
- The Diary
- Let’s Get Free
- Hot, Cool, and Vicious
- Room 25
- Culture
- A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
- Fever
- Licensed to Ill’
- Broke With Expensive Taste
- Damn
- Operation: Doomsday
- Buhloone Mindstate
- We Can’t Be Stopped
- Ironman
- The Documentary
- The Score
- Dr. Octagonecologyst
- Run the Jewels
- Fear of a Black Planet
- Marcberg
- Hard to Earn
- Bucket List Project
- Watch the Throne
- Breaking Atoms
- Some Rap Songs
- The Coming
- The Great Adventures of Slick Rick
- Kala
- Man on the Moon: The End of the Day
- Train of Thought
- The Slim Shady LP
- Internal Affairs
- Like Water for Chocolate
- The Listening
- Power
- One for All
- Monkey Barz
- Rodeo
- Hell Hath No Fury
- Doris
- Raising Hell
- LONG.LIVE.A$AP
1. Ready To Die
The Notorious B.I.G. put together one of the biggest albums of hip-hop out in 1994. The album is filled with songs about the rapper’s life struggles and ambitions.
Perhaps that is why the album was such a hit because people related to it a lot. I recommend you listen to this album, it also won Album of the Year.
2. Illmatic
Nas made history with Illmatic, highlighting the problems in ghetto life. He also mixed in elements of hope and survival which made the album a sensation amongst listeners.
Illmatic is a coming-of-age album, so if you are in that era of your life then I suggest you give it a listen. His album was inducted into the Library of Congress.
3. Stankonia
Outkast wrote and composed the hit album of the 2000s, Stankonia. The album mixes storytelling lyrics with energetic beats that show the Southern rap roots of the duo.
The album went platinum 5 times in the US and I believe that is enough to make someone want to give their music a try.
4. The Marshall Mathers LP
Everybody knows who Marshall Mathers aka Eminem is and the impact he has had in the hip-hop world. There is a reason why he’s called the Rap God, after all.
This album was a big controversy because of many lyrics but you know what they say, there is no such thing as bad publicity. This explains why this album charted #1 on the US Top Catalog Albums (Billboard) in 2002.
5. Pink Friday
Talking about the best hip-hop albums and you think I, a barbz, would miss out on the Queen of Rap, Nicki Minaj? Impossible! Pink Friday was Nicki’s debut album and it showcased her versatility.
Multiple genres mixed with catchy beats caused an uproar amongst listeners and won Nicki the Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album AMA award in 2011. I would highly recommend you to listen to this album, but keep in mind that I can be highly biased!
6. It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy wrote and composed this iconic album as a reply to the social injustice and racism people face. They did not shy away from confronting and pointing fingers at political parties.
The album went platinum in the US for its blunt nature and is still a favorite of many fans.
7. The Blueprint
Jay-Z is not only winning in his love life (being married to the legend Beyonce) but he is also dominating the rap world with his talent. This album is said to have blown Jay’s career to new heights.
The album has been named Ranked #5 in Rolling Stone’s “Top 10 of 2001“. Just give this record a listen and you will understand the hype.
8. Miss E… So Addictive
Missy Elliot paved the way for female rappers or in other words, Missy walked so other female rappers could run. This album is a personal favorite of mine, mainly because of how it coaxes you to “get your freak on”.
The album chartered #1 on US Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums (Billboard) in 2001. Listen to this masterpiece and dance your worries away!
9. To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar is without a doubt one of the most engaging artists ever. He writes, raps, sings, and dances. This makes him a dangerous threat to other musicians.
It focuses on many topics such as issues in society, and identity crises. Kendrick has a beautiful way of expressing his feelings and that’s why this album was #1 on the US Billboard 200 in 2015.
10. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Kanye West as a person may not be my favorite but even I cannot deny his impact in hip-hop. This album is a collection of many themes that are blended seamlessly with various melodies.
The album went platinum 3 times in the US if that isn’t enough to convince you!
11. Paul’s Boutique
Beastie Boys created this masterpiece after experimenting with multiple genres and charming lyrics. The album was their second album and it rose to fame quite quickly.
The album went platinum 2 times in the United States. It’s mainly popular because of its mix of pop, funk, rap, rock, and jazz.
12. The Chronic
The Chronic by Dr. Dre, rapper and producer, showed the world the skills Dr. Dre was honing. His musical ability and skill can be seen in the album.
The album was #1 on Billboard US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and also made Snoop Dogg famous in the industry.
13. The Infamous
Mobb Deep, a rap duo, made the most classic album that showed people the reality of urban life. Both Prodigy and Havoc have amazing lyrical games combined with attention-grabbing beats.
The album won Album of the Year in over 4 countries and that shows the impact of this album.
14. Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Wu-Tang Clan, a nine-member crew, wrote Enter the Wu-Tang about many topics, mainly about surviving tough problems in life and how to get back up. 9 people’s musical genius can be seen in this iconic record and we suggest you check it out.
The album went platinum 3 times in the US, and once in the UK and Australia.
15. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
One of the earlier female rappers that paved the way for many others is Lauryn Hill. in this legendary album, she mixes different genres seamlessly, creating a hit record.
Hill shows her rapping skills as well as vocal range while talking about topics like love, and other serious social issues.
16. Paid In Full
Together, with Rakim’s lyrical prowess and Eric B’s production skills, the duo created a fan-favorite album Paid in Full. the album is said to be very influential because of the messages in it.
I suggest you listen to their single “Paid in Full”, the beats and lyrical flow will grab your attention very easily.
17. The Low End Theory
A Tribe Called Quest made the album The Low End Theory and this album has songs that combine both hip-hop and jazz this makes the album unique, especially if you add the rap flow of Q-Tip and Phife Dawg.
The album has been called the greatest of all time by many and was also included in the Library of Congress.
18. Me Against The World
2pac made history with this album because of his ability to not be afraid of showing his emotions to the world. He raps about many deep topics such as love and other struggles in life.
The album is almost like his life story, an autobiography. The album charted #1 on the US Billboard 200 in 1995.
19. Take Care
The Canadian rapper who seems to have the world by storm right now gained stardom after his second album, Take Care, went viral. The album consists of songs about relationship struggles and love.
The album went platinum 6 times in the US if that is enough to convince you to stream.
20. Hard Core
Female rappers are my favorite, if you could not tell already, so of course I had to add Lil’ Kim’s legendary record, Hard Core. her blunt personality and explicit lyrics seemed to have empowered many other women in the hip-hop world.
Her album was #3 on the Billboard US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and that’s just one of its many other certifications.
21. Death Certificate
Ice Cube is called very bold by people because of his blunt way of discussing serious topics such as race, justice, and politics. Just for this reason alone, the album was a certified hit.
Ice Cube also raps about police brutality, something black people face a lot in their lives. And maybe the relatability of the album is why it’s a fan-favorite to this day.
22. Lord Willin’
Pusha T and Malice, called The Clipse, created the album Lord Willlin’ and the album is about many topics such as drug trafficking. It uniquely shows the reality of life, with amazing lyrics and melodies combined.
The album charted #1 on the Billboard US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums in 2002.
23. Supreme Clientele
Ghostface Killah was a member of the Wu-tang Clan, and he released Supreme Clientele in 2000 after going solo. Ghostface is famous because of the way he vividly tells stories.
The album was certified gold by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America).
24. It’s Dark And Hell is Hot
This was DMX’s debut album and it managed to get the rapper enough attention to kickstart his hip-hop career. The album is very passionate and honest, with catchy beats which made it a hit amongst listeners.
I suggest you listen to “Get At Me Dog” from this album, it is one of my favorites.
25. Doggystyle
Doggystyle was Snoop Dogg’s debut album that Dr. Dre produced. Explicit content and sexual lyrics only sound good to me from female rappers but if you like it from male rappers then this album is your cup of tea.
The album has a very laid-back and chill vibe to it with other genres combined in it that made it go #1 on many charts.
26. Invasion of Privacy
Cardi B’s iconic “I Like It” and “Bodak Yellow” from the album Invasion of Privacy were everywhere in 2018. The album is filled with songs about empowerment and other themes.
Cardi won “Best Rap Album” in 2019 at the Grammys and I think that should be enough to convince you what a masterpiece this album is.
27. Da Drought 3
Lil Wayne’s hip-hop album Da Drought 3 shows everyone his skill on the mic. He uses witty metaphors and tricky wordplay to grab the audience’s attention.
I would suggest you try out his music if you want to discover new fun music.
28. Madvillainy
The rap duo, Madvillian, consisting of MF DOOM and Madlib, released this album in 2004. The album is known for its unique production aesthetic and the lyrical ability of the rappers.
The duo expanded with many genres in their album, making it a critically acclaimed album, even having a part 2 released later on.
29. DS2
DS2 is Future’s third hip-hop album and it has a very dark and gritty aesthetic to it. Future discusses themes like love, fame, etc. but his way of rapping about things is considered very bold.
If that is something you like then give this chart-topping album a go.
30. Reasonable Doubt
We told you guys before that Jay-Z is dominating the rap world so seeing his 2 albums on this list must not be a surprise to you. This was his debut album that led him to stardom after everyone saw his wordplay and rap flow.
The album went platinum in the US and has many other certifications to its name as well.
31. Ridin’ Dirty
The Texas rap duo UGK, consisting of Pimp C and Bun B, were very famous in the underground Southern hip-hop world. They rapped about ghetto life, its struggles, and many other relatable topics for their people.
Perhaps that is why the album charted # in 1996 on the Billboard US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.
32. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…
Raekwon made the legendary East Coast rap album, which is also known as the purple tape because of the color of the cassettes. The album showcased Raekwon’s musical talents, whether it was with words or beats.
I suggest you check out this album, as the long list of accolades it has shown the love it received.
33. All Eyez On Me
Another one of 2pac’s hip-hop hits on this list is All Eyez On Me which was his fourth studio album and is said to be a significant point in his career. 2pac put a lot of raw and honest emotion into this album.
If you give it a listen, you will realize why the album was charted at #1 on the US Billboard 200.
34. Aquemini
Next on the list is Outkast’s Southern hit rap album, Aquemini. The album has a combination of many other genres such as funk, rock, and soul, which is one of my favorite traits in an album.
Andre 3000 and Big Boi made history with this album as it went platinum twice in the USA.
35. Finally Rich
As the name suggests, you can probably guess what Chief Keef raps about in this album. Chief Keef is famous because of his different rap flow, and the delivery of his lines in a unique way.
The trap beats in the record also solidified Keef’s status in the rap world, making him “finally rich” as his album topped the charts.
36. AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted
Ice Cube’s debut album caused an uproar in the 90s because of his bold way of pointing fingers at the justice system for inequality and racism. As we mentioned before, this bluntness of Ice got him fame and a fan following.
The album went platinum in the US and silver in the UK.
37. Get Rich or Die Tryin’
The famous “Go Shawty, it’s your birthday” came from 50 Cent’s debut album Get Rich Or Die Tryin’. This album brought well-deserved attention to 50 Cent as his talent should be heard.
The album topped many charts and 50 Cent successfully set new boundaries for other rappers.
38. Supa Dupa Fly
Missy Elliot set foot into the hip-hop world with her debut album Supa Dupa Fly, produced by Timbaland. The album successfully put Missy’s lyrical talent on the show and got much-needed attention from listeners.
Missy broke gender barriers in the rap industry with this album and the charts it topped are proof of that.
39. 3 Feet High and Rising
De La Soul’s debut album that put them on the radar was 3 Feet High and Rising. The album is very laid back and chill, with some lighthearted music in this dark world. I urge you to give their music a try, it will surely put you in a good mood.
The album was #1 in 1989 on Billboard’s US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.
40. Food & Liquor
Lupe Fiasco’s debut album Food & Liquor blew to stardom because of the smooth blend of melodies with serious lyrics. The unique content of this album caught the attention of many and started Lupe’s career.
The album was #1 on the Billboard US Top Rap Albums in 2006.
41. Call Me If You Get Lost
Tyle, The Creator is notorious for his very different sound and production and Call Me If You Get Lost is one of those albums. Tyler talks about many things in this record such as love, fame, and life struggles.
This album won Tyler a Grammy as Best Rap Album so you can imagine the impact this album had.
42. Acid Rap
Chance the rapper made history with his mixtape in 2013 because of the wide range of genres he mixed. Soul and gospel were mixed with hip-hop to create a unique sound.
The album chartered #3 on Billboard’s US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album. Chance’s sound is not my thing but if it sounds like yours then you should check it out.
43. No One Can Do It Better
The D.O.C partnered up with Dr. Dre and together they made the hit album, No One Can Do It Better and they were 100% right, no one can do it better than them. D.O.C has great lyrical skills and Dr. Dre has production skills and together these two wreaked havoc in hip-hop.
The album went platinum in the US, proving that it deserves a spot in this list amongst other chart-topping albums.
44. Good Kid, m.A.A.d City
One of my favorite male rappers has got to be Kendrick Lamar. His album Good Kid, m.A.A.d City was a hit on the charts because of the realistic portrayal of Compton street life by Kendrick.
You must listen to Money Trees, a legendary song, especially on TikTok.
45. Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill named his debut album after himself and the record seemed to be a hit so it was a smart move. Cypress combined rock with rap, two of my favorite genres, and created history.
The album has many accolades including going platinum 4 times in the US.
46. Late Registration
We have all heard of Kanye West’s famous “Gold Digger” from the album Late Registration. This album succeeded in building Kanye’s reputation as a “visionary artist”.
Kanye won a Grammy for this album so that solidifies what a masterpiece this record was.
47. Long Live The Kane
Big Daddy Kane’s Long Live The Kane, charted #5 in 1988 on Billboards US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. The album is said to have set the standard for the rap world’s lyricism. It is also known to be called a gem in the Golden Age of hip-hop.
48. Critical Beatdown
Ultramagnetic MCs, a hip-hop group, released their debut album in 1984. Together the four of them created an iconic record, filled with top-notch production and relatable lyrics.
The album may not have many certifications and accolades but it is considered a contributing album in the Golden Age of hip-hop.
49. Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A’s most iconic album that boldly made some controversial statements is Straight Outta Compton. In this record, the rappers make some very blunt remarks about the police and other struggles of Compton.
If you like this type of music then do check them out although we would warn you that the album has a lot of criticism to its name.
50. Run-D.M.C
Run-D.M.C is the debut album of Run-D.M.C and it combines rock with hip-hop, making it a fan-favorite. Their album broke many stereotypes and paved the way for others.
The album has many accolades to its name to prove to you that the above-stated statement is 100% correct.
51. Strictly Business
EPMD began their rap career with the release of their debut album Strictly Business. The duo showed off their skills with words and melodies and caught everyone’s attention.
The album charted #1 on the Billboard US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.
52. Liquid Swords
GZA the Genius, consisting of RZA’s production skills and Genius’s rap flow and lyricism managed to get both of them a hit album. The album also has collaborations with other famous artists, making it a masterpiece.
53. Mama Said Knock You Out
LL Cool J’s album Mama Said Knock You Out is said to be the comeback album that established him as an icon in the rap world. The album went platinum twice in the US and its catchy songs and rap lines are worth a listen.
54. Guru’s Jazzmatazz, Vol.1
As the name suggests, this album is a mixture of jazz and hip-hop, making it a very unique musical record. The instrumental focus in this record helped it get on many charts.
We recommend you check this album out, especially if you are a jazz music lover.
55. Donuts
This album has 31 short tracks and is J. Dilla’s longest album. When you listen to this, you will realize Dilla’s musical skills as he uniquely composed every song.
The album may not be a hit on the charts but it still contributed enough to the rap industry to be on this list.
56. Summertime ‘06
Vince Staples combined catchy beats with raw lyrics about his childhood and this honesty managed to get him recognition on the charts. The album is filled with motivating songs for the youth which is why I would suggest you give it a listen.
57. Things Fall Apart
The Roots released this album in 1999 and got recognition for their instrumental skills as well as wordplay. They talk about serious topics in their songs such as racism, fame, and other problems in life.
The album went platinum in the USA.
58. All Hail The Queen
Queen Latifah’s debut album All Hail The Queen showed her clever wordplay and her songs about empowerment changed the game for women in hip-hop. The album was on different charts and set new limits in the rap world.
59. The Diary
The lyrics in Scarface’s album The Diary evoke deep thoughts in the listener as the topics are very serious such as survival in life. The album was on the Billboard charts and we recommend you give it a listen.
60. Let’s Get Free
Dead Prez’s album is a masterpiece in every sense. Beats, lyrics, line delivery, all of it is perfect when it comes to the rap duo. I suggest you check out some of their songs from this critically acclaimed album.
61. Hot, Cool and Vicious
Salt’N Pepa is a rap trio who, just like other female rappers, has a bold and unapologetic personality that shines in their songs. Their album was like fire on the charts and I would recommend you to give their music a try.
62. Room 25
Noname is a rapper and a poet, which means she is a lyrical genius. On top of that, Noname also has a keen ear for melodies. All in all, she is a force to be reckoned with and I urge you to listen to her music.
63. Culture
We’re sure you’ve heard of the famous “rain drop, drop top” lyrics from Bad and Boujee by Migos from the album culture that went viral in 2017. Their vibe is very catchy and makes you want to stand and break a leg.
We 100% recommend you give this album a listen.
64. A Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing
The rap duo Balck Sheep their influential album about politics and social injustice in 1991. The album hit the charts quickly overnight and is said to be one of the best in the game.
65. Fever
Next on the list is one of my favorites, Megan Thee Stallion. Her bold and explicit personality got the attention of many and these days you can see her frequently topping charts with hits after hits.
If you like to dance and party then Fever should be on your playlist.
66. Licensed to Ill’
Beastie Boys are a talented hip-hop group, and I recommend you listen to “Girls” on this album. The funk and rap fusion will surely not disappoint you at all.
The album went diamond in the US, just so you know what impact it had!
67. Broke With Expensive Taste
Azealia Bank’s debut album, Broke With Expensive Taste, kickstarted her career. The album is filled with many other genres and managed to get critical acclaim for the rapper.
68. Damn
Another one of Kendrick’s famous albums on this list is Damn, this Grammy-winning album has many hits under the belt such as “Humble” and “DNA”, which I recommend you listen to.
Kendrick talks about topics like politics, and spirituality in this album along with other themes.
69. Operation: Doomsday
MF DOOM’s debut album, Operation: Doomsday, has many accolades to its name. If you are a comic book fan then you should check this album out as it has many comic book references in it.
70. Buhloone Mindstate
Another hit of De La Soul on this list is Buhloone Mindstate which is a masterpiece that combines jazz and funk with hip-hop. The album also talks about controversial topics, which is why it is loved by so many.
71. We Can’t Be Stopped
Geto Boys released their third album We Can’t Be Stopped in 1991. The album faced some controversy as it featured Bushwick Bill on the cover, after a gunshot.
The album talks about the personal struggles of all its members, making it a hit for its relatability.
72. Ironman
Ghostface Killah is an iconic rapper and his album, Ironman topped the charts because of the raw portrayal of real-life struggles in it.
The rapper talks about life growing up in New York, financial struggles, and other tough realities of life.
73. The Documentary
Rapper The Game released his debut album The Documentary immediately went viral because of collaboration with other notable rappers such as Eminem. The album went platinum in many countries.
I recommend you check this album out, especially if you like a good, smooth rap flow.
74. The Score
The hip-hop crew, the Fugees, released The Score which went #1 on the US Billboard 200 in 1996. Lauryn Hill’s vocals and Pras and Wyclef’s rapping skills took the album to new heights.
The album consists of songs that have a combination of R&B with rap, making it very versatile.
75. Dr. Octagonecologyst
Next on the list is Dr. Octagon aka Koot Keith’s very unique album. Throughout the album, Kool Keith pretends to be a space doctor who specializes in out-of-the-world things.
If you listen to the album, you will see the weird but funny lyrics. It is an attempt to create a light atmosphere and for that, we praise the rapper.
76. Run the Jewels
This self-titled album by Run The Jewels is by the rap duo, Killer Mike and EI-P. The album consists of hard-hitting lyrics about serious topics.
It also has strong instrumental beats that are very catchy.
77. Fear Of A Black Planet
As the name suggests, Public Enemy raps about racism and injustice in the world on this album. The four rappers of the band came together to create this masterpiece that achieved many certifications.
78. Marcberg
I recommend you listen to the song “Hide My Tears” on this album by Roc Marciano. Just like the other songs, this one has a catchy melody and raw lyrics that make you feel a deep emotion.
The album on its own might not be a hit but it did have a significant impact on the hip-hop fans.
79. Hard To Earn
The two rappers, Guru and DJ Premier, came together as Gang Starr and created an iconic album that will go down in rap history as one of the greatest.
The album also has elements of jazz music in it, if that is your vibe.
80. Bucket List Project
Rapper Saba used this album as a way to convey his experiences in his life, in the hope others would relate to it. His narratives managed to motivate others in different aspects of life.
Although, not a chart topping-album, but one for the books.
81. Watch the Throne
Two of the all-time fan-favorite rappers, Jay-Z and Kanye West, came together to create the musical masterpiece that is Watch the Throne.
The collab was so big and monumental that it won them Album of the Year in 2011 along with many other accolades and nominations.
82. Breaking Atoms
This album by Main Source is considered a classic hip-hop album. It has songs that have meaning to them and beats that are catchy to the ear.
I suggest you check out this underrated album, you will not be disappointed.
83. Some Rap Songs
Earl Sweatshirt shares with the world his real-life experiences, be they sad or happy on this album. The vibe of the album is very chill and I recommend you give this short but intense album a listen.
84. The Coming
This versatile album by Busta Rhymes experiments with many genres and topics in it. The tuneful songs on this album make it a fan favorite for many to this day.
85. The Great Adventures of Slick Rick
Many fans refer to Slick Rick’s music as the type that never leaves your head and they are right. The rapper has a smooth lyrical flow that fits perfectly with the tunes and that’s why the album went platinum in the US.
86. Kala
M.I.A created history with this album as she experimented with various tunes and genres on this album. Her approach to music is very eccentric which helped make her a star.
87. Man on the Moon: The End of the Day
Kid Cudi mixed elements of different types of genres together to create a masterpiece. He boldly discussed many topics on this alum such as mental illnesses.
88. Train Of Thought
Reflection Eternal, a duo consisting of rappers Hi-Tek and Talib Kweli, released this album in 2000. The record has relatable lyrics, especially for African Americans.
89. The Slim Shady LP
Of course, we have to include another Eminem masterpiece in this list, or else it would be incomplete. Slim Shady is Eminem’s alter ego who is controversial and bold.
Eminem’s dark humor has gotten him under fire many times but he never seemed to mind it.
90. Internal Affairs
Pharoah Monch raps about serious issues in this album, such as politics and mental health awareness. If you relate to such topics then you should check this album out.
91. Like Water for Chocolate
Jazz and soul elements can be found in this hip-hop album by rapper Common. The album touches on many topics including my personal favorite, love and relationships.
92. The Listening
This album by the rap group, Little Brother is known because of its relatability element. It showcases the struggles of black Americans.
93. Power
If you are from Los Angeles then you should check Ice T’s Power album out immediately. It is very relatable and the rapper talks about his personal experiences throughout.
94. One For All
The rap trio, Brand Nubian, is the legend behind this classic album and is popular for its production techniques and lyricism. The album easily hit the charts back in 1991.
95. Monkey Barz
Sean Price released this album in 2005 and it’s laced with humor, even when talking about serious topics. Sean has a talent for words and that is very noticeable in his album.
96. Rodeo
Travis Scott, famous Kylie Jenner’s baby daddy, released Rodeo in 2015. The whole album is famous for its versatility and portrayal of real-life problems such as addiction. We suggest you check this album out.
97. Hell Hath No Fury
Another one of Clipse’s hits on this list is Hell Hath No Fury, a bold album that delves into the dark side of street life. The album was produced by the Neptunes, making it a musical masterpiece.
98. Doris
Earl Sweatshirt is the artist behind this album which went #2 on Billboard’s US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums in 2013. The album shows Erl’s genius with a mic and pen, making him a fan-favorite in the rap world.
99. Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C released Raising Hell in 1986 and paved the way for many then-emerging artists without even knowing it. The album is very energetic and perfect for partying if that is your cup of tea.
100. Long Live A$AP
A$AP Rocky managed to win the lottery in love life (bagging a woman like Rihanna) and also in the hip-hop industry. The album is diverse with different genres mixed such as electronic and rap.
We recommend you check out the two-time platinum album to see what the hype is about yourself.
FAQs
Which rapper has the most rap albums sold?
There are a total of 16 rappers that have high-selling albums but Eminem takes the win for the most rap albums sold. He has over 60 million copies sold in the United States alone, which shows why he is on the top of the list.
Has Jay-Z ever gotten a diamond certification?
According to the Recording Industry Association of America, yes, Jay-Z indeed has a diamond certification. His single “N-ggas In Paris” with fellow rapper, Kanye West, qualified for a diamond plaque in 2011.
Which rap artists have diamond albums?
There are only four pioneering rappers so far that have managed to get diamond albums in their lifetimes. This list includes Eminem, Lauryn Hill, Beastie Boys, and The Notorious B.I.G.