Black Moon is one of the most underrated hip hop groups in the rap game. They released their critically acclaimed and influential album Enta da Stage in 1993 that featured some of the most complex and conscious lyrics at the time.
“I Got Cha Opin” is one of the best tracks from the album with its hard-hitting beat and saxophone sample. Each rapper rides the beat with their own lyrical versatility. Check it out below.
I discovered Atlanta hip-hop duo EarthGang a few days ago and I am truly impressed with their music. The group has a style that is reminiscent of Outkast with their own spin on Southern hip-hop music.
“No Peace” is one of my favorite tracks from EarthGang with its soulful sample and their laid-back flow. Check it out below.
For the longest time, I did not know what to make of Marilyn Manson. When I was younger, I thought he was a devil worshipper, sicko, and all-around frightening figure but over the years my opinion has changed. It wasn’t till 2 years ago when I actually sat down and started to listen to his music that I actually learned how much of a genius he is.
The Pale Emperor was one of my favorite albums of 2015 and led to a newfound respect for Marilyn Manson. I have been hyped for his new album which is set to come out next month. Last week Marilyn shared the first single from the album entitled “We Know Where Your Fucking Live.” The song is heavy and loud and features a disturbing music video that was shot in true Marilyn Manson form.
Joey Bada$$’s second studio album All-Amerikkkan Badass is one of my favorite albums of the year. With this record, Joey proved that he could deliver an album that is both mature and expands on his sound. The record has Joey discussing the current state of America in regards to politics, police brutality, and racism. It is a stellar achievement from the new generation of East Coast rappers.
“Babylon” is one of the best tracks from the album with its laid-back sound and Joey’s direct lyricism. Check it out below.
Lil Uzi Vert is riding a wave now after the success of his moody track “XO Tour Life” and album “LUV is Rage 2.” His debut album proved to be a real hit with fans and new listeners alike with its unique spin on trap music.
“Neon Guts” is one of the best tracks from the album. Pharrell serves as a producer and guest artist on the track. Lil Uzi Vert’s hyperactive vocals are reigned in for this track as he matches Pharrell’s more laid-back flow. Check it out below.
Florida rapper/singer XXXTentacion has had quite a controversial rise in hip-hop over the course of a year. His single “Look at Me!” became very popular while he was behind bars and catapulted to the top of the charts. XXXTentacion recently released his debut album 17 which was a mashup of hip-hop, emo, and indie rock. I was skeptical going into the album because I assumed that it was going to be another regurgitation of bland trap music, but boy was I wrong. I really enjoyed the album
I was skeptical going into the album because I assumed that it was going to be another regurgitation of bland trap music, but boy was I wrong. I really enjoyed the album and found myself listening to it several times in one day. There are many good tracks on the short album that I find myself drawn to over and over again.
XXXTentacion released a music video for his song “Look at Me” which also features the song “Riot.” The video has received quite a bit of attention due to its scene of a white child being lynched by X himself. Check it out below.
For this week’s Throwback Thursday hip hop track, we celebrate the greatest rapper of all time (in my opinion), Nas. Today is Nas’ birthday and we shine a spotlight on “Memory Lane (Sittin’ in Da Park” from Nas’ first critically acclaimed and inspirational album Illmatic. This song is my favorite from the album with its complex wordplay and laid-back beat produced by DJ Premier. Check it out below.
