Following up his Beach House mixtapes, Dolla $ign returns to his free music roots. Ty sounds equally comfortable collaborating with MCs (Juicy J and Rich Homie Quan on “Dead Presidents”) or gettin’ his R.Kelly-esque freak on (“Stretch”). Understand that Sign Language should have a bar code.—YN
I knew about it. Cause Mike Will Made It told me about it. “No Flex Zone” wins because of its bouncy groove and one of the year’s strongest choruses. Nicki and Pusha have recognized and so should you.—YN
Drizzy can take a local song and make it better. This time he’s done it for ATL’s Makonnen who’s distinctive sing-songy style first caught the attention of Mike Will Made It and Miley Cyrus. With this tune as our soundtrack, Tuesdays will never be the same. Ha!—YN
The singer from the Chi and the gang banger from Cali make a good combination on this song about keeping this things discreet. It ain’t no secret. This DJ Mustard production is potent.—YN
Birdman is smart. It was a slow burn but this pairing of two of ATL’s young gunners has emerged into a bonafide banger about achievement. The Rich Gang gets richer.—YN
Who’s summer was this? It must be Bobby. The kid from BK came out of nowhere and quickly captured the rap world’s full attention. Truth be told, your favorite rappers know this record is bigger than theirs. Gotta tip your cap to young Shmurda.—YN
In an homage to their hometown, Com and No I.D. unite in creating an album that touches on the chaotic, crime-ridden community of Chicago. But there’s still room for Rashid to self-explore on songs like “Rewind That” where he candidly reflects on the loss of his friend/producer J Dilla. True art makes us happy.—YN
The hottest producer in the game takes the helm on his Roc Nation debut. Although the album may not contain the instant radio hit-making magic of his outside productions, 10 Summers is still an enjoyable listen that showcases Mustard’s love of West Coast hip-hop. Dubs up!—YN
The Weeknd went off on his own, but OVO Sound didn’t miss a step with the addition of this Sauga singer. Party follows up his acclaimed 2013 debut with a more cohesive sophomore release. Might be in the minority but I prefer this sequel to the original. PND FTW.—YN
Time waits for no man—except the Snowman. Ha! After a long delay, Jeezy delivers yet again with another album of strong tunes that delve even deeper into his drug dealing past, lost friendships and his legacy. Simply put, his protege YG got some competition for rap album of the year. CTE FTW.—YN
The style and skill are on a par with the exaggerated musicality. I tried to understand the message of the song. I think it's about a person who thinks they can do a series of things that may be beautiful or "powerful," but in reality it's nothing of the sort. People are like chickens that eat each other and don't know that they're raised and live only to be eaten.