best hip hop albums of all time rateyourmusic

Gangster Chronicle by London Posse (1990) Bringing a punk sensibility to themes of black empowerment and social injustice, It Takes A Nation is still as much of a galvanising listen today as it was when it was first released, affirming Public Enemy’s status as radical pioneers in the industry.

Layering samples for an innovative and arresting sound, the fact that the album was recorded within six weeks is a feat within itself, but it’s made all the more impressive when you take a moment to appreciate the lyrical prowess the group’s lead rapper, Chuck D, displays on its tracks. It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back by Public Enemy (1988)įull of political rage and searing social commentary, Public Enemy’s second album, It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back, is as influential to hip-hop as The Velvet Underground & Nico is to rock music. Turn your speakers up, because these albums deserve to be blasted out. From the early styles from Public Enemy to modern innovation from the likes of Kanye West and Kendrick Lamar, these are records that shaped the genre and influenced those that came after them.

With so many subgenres that bend to regional sounds, picking out the best hip-hop albums of all time isn’t an easy task, but if you’re looking for an introduction to the genre or want to refresh your knowledge, these 15 albums aren’t a bad place to start.

Best hip hop albums of all time rateyourmusic