This producer from the Mass continues to bust his ass to preserve the essence of traditional East Coast hip-hop. WGA may be Statik’s finest complete project packed with a gang of MCs from new jacks like Joey Badass to an unlisted appearance from veteran Kool Keith. Hard not to head nod to this one.—YN
You’d have to be a big dummy to not understand at this point how serious DJ Khaled is about his videos. Still he outdoes himself here in the scene where he keeps feeding his shortie stacks of greenbacks. We’re grateful for all the laughs this provides. Ha!—YN
The Young Gangsta takes it back to his old hood for this gripping visual. The violence can make you feel un(c)bomfortable but it’s a harsh reality we can’t ignore. Life is krazy, y’all.—YN
Curtis and his crew showcase their conscious side on this striking visual that addresses police brutality. Unexpected and well put together. Salute to The Unit.—YN
Onika provides a pervert’s delight as she celebrates her ample back side in this soft porn visual. Can’t believe Nick flipped Sir Mix-A-Lot’s classic into a modern day hit. But you probably couldn’t tell cause you was watching this shit with the sound off. Ha!—YN
I ain’t tripping. Brosolini delivers the most captivating visual of the year. Biker blues. Bar room fights. Mountain climbing. Just give the man his guitar and get out the way. Ride on.—YN
Another Chicago rapper on the rise is Coke Boy Lil Durk. He pours his impassioned street perspective into his latest installment of Signed To The Streets. But it’s all not dark drill, guest Young Thug brings punch to “Party” and Durk even effectively uses autotune on songs like “Live It Up”. As his upcoming Def Jam debut states remember his name.—YN
The baritone-voiced bars are back! Bibby returns sounding even more confident than on his mixtape debut. Money is the motivation here on songs like the T.I.-assisted “Boy” and the soulful “What You Live For”. Free Crack put this Chitown MC on the map and this satisfying sequel proves he belongs there.—YN
You can’t front on Spitta’s consistency. This guy has truly carved his own lane and he continues to feed his fans with projects like SNCT. Birdman (“10 G’s Remix”), Rich Boy (“Night Like This”) and his old buddy Wiz Khalifa (“Dojo”) all pull up to the party but the focus remains on the author of the upcoming Pilot Talk 3.—YN
The oddball of the Houston hip-hop scene continues to evolve with his strongest collection of tracks to date. The rapper/producer shines with Big Sean on “Don’t Play” and rises to greater heights with Young Thug on the Metro Boomin-produced “Skyfall”. Although you can still hear him finding his way, Scott is a true talent. Straight up.—YN
This video for "Travel The World" is a solid vibe! Termanology and Bun B bring such a smooth, classic hip-hop energy, and Enisa’s vocals really elevate the track. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to pack your bags and explore somewhere new immediately. Watching their journey through the visuals makes me seriously daydream about booking a trip—maybe planning some new zealand holidays is exactly what I need to cure this wanderlust. The chemistry between the artists is undeniable, and it’s a great addition to the project. Definitely a track worth keeping on repeat this season!