As 2024 comes to a close, it stands out as a transformative year in hip-hop history. With notable feuds breaking out—Kendrick Lamar versus Drake (and briefly J. Cole), Kanye West and a cadre of artists taking shots at the 6 God, and 50 Cent reigning as the internet’s biggest provocateur—the landscape of hip-hop was electrified. These conflicts led to chart-topping diss tracks, surprising apologies, and unprecedented legal issues that could reshape the music industry.
Amidst the drama, 2024 also delivered a wealth of impressive music. Major artists like Eminem, Kendrick, Future (who released three albums), Kanye West (who dropped two), Tyler, The Creator, 21 Savage, J. Cole, and Megan Thee Stallion all contributed to a vibrant musical year. GloRilla, ScHoolboy Q, Doechii, Vince Staples, Common, Rapsody, and LL Cool J also graced fans with noteworthy projects.
However, as the year winds down, anticipation is already building for what’s next. HipHopDX has compiled a list of the top 10 most anticipated rap albums for 2025, where new stars will emerge, legends will return, and the narratives that defined 2024 will likely continue to unfold.
1. J. Cole — The Fall Off
J. Cole has hinted that The Fall Off might be his final album, especially with the announcement that next year’s Dreamville Festival will be the last. While it’s hard to imagine a dedicated artist like Cole stepping away from music for good, the rapper is set to turn 40 next summer, marking a potential transition into a new phase of his career.
2. Cardi B — TBA
Amid her public disputes with estranged husband Offset and rival female rappers, Cardi B has been diligently working on the follow-up to her groundbreaking debut, Invasion of Privacy. Despite the challenges of her third pregnancy, Cardi has promised fans that 2025 will finally bring her new music, although the timeline remains uncertain.
3. A$AP Rocky — Don’t Be Dumb
Initially announced in 2023 and teased throughout 2024, A$AP Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb faced delays, with the artist citing leaks as a reason. This will be Rocky’s first album in seven years, and its release may hinge on the outcome of his upcoming felony assault trial in January.
4. Kanye West — Bully
After a tumultuous year filled with controversial remarks, Kanye West has reportedly shifted focus to creating music reminiscent of his earlier work. His next album, titled Bully, is anticipated to reflect a return to form for the iconic artist.
5. Young Thug — TBA
Fans have been eagerly awaiting new music from Young Thug since his release from jail over a month ago. While he has been relatively quiet since his legal battles, anticipation for his upcoming album continues to grow, especially considering his probation conditions may limit his lyrical content.
6. Clipse — Let God Sort Em Out
After a 15-year hiatus, the reunion of Clipse is highly anticipated. Their new album, Let God Sort Em Out, produced entirely by Pharrell, promises to be a significant event in hip-hop, featuring contributions from Nas and John Legend.
7. Lil Wayne — Tha Carter VI
Lil Wayne may not be the powerhouse he once was, but recent guest verses have shown that he still possesses immense talent. After teasing Tha Carter VI this past September, fans are eager for its release, especially with renewed interest in his legacy.
8. Baby Keem — Child With Wolves
Following the success of his breakthrough album The Melodic Blue, Baby Keem has been teasing Child With Wolves. As a rising star with immense potential, fans are curious to see how he will build on his previous success.
9. Mac Miller — Balloonerism
Posthumous releases often come with mixed reactions, but Mac Miller’s Circles set a high standard. Balloonerism, which was recorded around 2013-2014, is set to release on January 17, shortly before what would have been his 33rd birthday.
10. Nas & DJ Premier — TBA
The long-awaited collaboration between Nas and DJ Premier has finally been confirmed, following the release of the celebratory single “Define My Name.” Fans are hopeful that this project will deliver the classic sound that the duo is known for, reminiscent of their past collaborations.
Other Albums to Watch in 2025:
- Travis Scott — TBA
- Drake — TBA
- Nicki Minaj — TBA
- Lil Baby — WHAM (Who Hard As Me) + Dominique
- Lil Durk — Deep Thoughts
- Isaiah Rashad — TBA
- Freddie Gibbs & Madlib — Montana
- JID & Metro Boomin — TBA
- Chance The Rapper — Star Line
- The Roots — End Game
- The Game — The Documentary 3
- Griselda — WWCD 2
- Central Cee — Can’t Rush Greatness
- Jay Rock — TBA
- Big Sean & The Alchemist — TBA
- T.I. — Kill the King / Kiss the King
- Busta Rhymes — Dragon Season
- Saba & No ID — From the Private Collection of Saba & No ID
As we step into 2025, the excitement for new music continues to build. Stay tuned to hiphopraisedmetheblog.com for updates on album releases and the latest in hip-hop news!
