By Darien Opperman
My favorite tradition has arrived and it is time for all of us to roast each other. 2021 was filled with numerous releases from an immense amount of artists. After such a tough year that was 2020, I felt that many artists had thoughts to get off of their chest. 2021 was about resetting, refueling and picking yourself back up after humanity went through many major changes. Thus, I present to you my personal soundtrack of 2021. This list was made by only me here at Music To My Ears. I made it based on the amount of playback I gave a certain song, how long it stuck with me mentally/emotionally and limited up to three songs from each artist on my list. I considered the time within the year the song dropped as well. For each song I left a short sentence or two about the corresponding artist, detailing their 2021, the song and more. This is based on my favorite songs, so my #1 song shouldn’t necessarily be nominated for or win a Grammy. You can check out the full playlists of #100 to #1 on Spotify and Apple Music (You can click one of the two). I want to remind you that if you listen to the playlists listen in order and if you hear a song that you genuinely enjoy, be sure to check out the rest of the music from that respective artist’s discography. I do have a top albums list but I preferred to do this because there are too many artists that I want to give my flowers to. And yes, I am counting releases from December 2020.
REASON ft. Wale, Ade - Not for Me
TDE signee came through with a demo tape called No More, No Less: Demo 1 as fans highly anticipate his next full length release. "Not for Me" has two sonics that clash together to create two mesmerizing songs in one. I've always thought REASON is slept on even after making his presence known with TDE.
Warhol.SS - Switches And Things
Chicago native Warhol.SS shared Free Andy II in June this year and it still hasn't left my rotation. He was supposed to drop Where's Warhol 2 this month but unfortunately it got pushed back. "Switches And Things" was produced by Ben Sachs and this instrumental falls perfectly into Warhol.SS hands.
Childish Major ft. Schoolboy Q - Disrespectful
I had the opportunity to see Childish Major open for Isaiah Rashad this year and "Disrespectful" was popping off so much that he performed it three times back-to-back-to-back. Childish Major mixes such a fun instrumental with meaningful bars and circles back with a simple yet addicting hook. Originally Schoolboy Q wasn't on this song but his addition made this even more complete.
Pierre Bourne - Butterfly
Pierre Bourne crafted another masterpiece with The Life of Pierre 5, "Butterfly" is one of the closing tracks and the transition into it is beautiful. On this album, I feel as if Pierre really stepped it up in the lyrical department and found the perfect balance between his vocals and instrumentation. That second verse absolutely blew me away as Pierre barrages us with non-stop punchlines.
slowthai ft. A$AP Rocky - MAZZA
A collaboration I never knew I needed, British artist slowthai taps A$AP Rocky for an infectiously sporadic and energetic track.
Just Wise & Matt Audio Dope ft. Cruz Ocho - Japan
Just Wise is from my hometown and is such a talented up and coming rapper. Matt Audio Dope is a highly skilled Chicago producer who executively produced Delusions of Grandeur with Just Wise. Just Wise taps his homie and other half of Highest Low Cruz Ocho as they reminisce over their trip they took to Japan. These two know each other so well and feed off of each other's energy, it is a great thing to hear.
Zack Fox - fafo
Zack Fox told us he wasn't a rapper, then out of no where he dropped his debut rap project shut the f**k up talking to me. The comedian/rapper/illustrator broke onto the scene with his viral hit "Jesus Is The One (I Got Depression)" in 2019. Although majority of this project didn't peak my interest, "fafo" was the one that stuck.
IDK - Peloton
I'm not exactly sure why this song took so long to stick with me, but if it stuck earlier it was be galaxies higher on this list. There are so many samples and references IDK makes with his delivery and lyrics to make this song irresistibly groovy.
Trippie Redd - Molly Hearts
Trip At Knight I believe has been a polarizing album for Trippie Redd. He didn't do too much in terms of trying new things, he just rode out with the same rinse and repeat formula throughout the entire project. Electric synths. It seems like you either love it or hate it. "Molly Hearts" is that McDonald's sprite music so you know it goes hard, and it is the perfect intro to the album.
Rockie Fresh - 4 Door
You'll see that a solid chunk of this list are Chicago natives because Chicago has the greatest rappers in the world. Rockie Fresh flows over a bubbly beat about his riches and relationships. His 2021 release Slid Thru Pt. 2 is criminally underrated.
Valee - Rice
When I first heard this song in 2020 it was the greatest minute of my life, and now that it is officially released I'm a happy camper. KiltKarter and Valee have a chemistry that is out of this world and I wouldn't be opposed to another project from the two.
l e t . g o . m y . h a n d ft. Bas, 6LACK
It seems everyone who isn't a diehard J. Cole fan has severely underrated The Off-Season. I don't think you need to be a super-fan to realize how much Cole actually did and said on this album. KOD was my favorite album by Cole when it released solely because of the beat selection but The Off-Season is exactly what I needed to hear from J. Cole. Bas comes through with a heartfelt bridge at the end of the track.
VIC MENSA - VICTORY
A lyrical ether from Chicago legend VIC MENSA in "VICTORY". This song was a victory rap for Vic. Vic is as triumphant and charismatic as ever on this song and I felt as if VIC MENSA'S 2021 project I TAPE reminded hip-hop fans that he is still one of best song crafters in the game currently. Shout out to DJ Pharris.
YG & Mozzy ft. Young M.A - MAD
YG always finds his way into my rotation because I love the modern day West coast sound. An addicting beat and solid verses from all three.
GUEST LIST - BLACK LEMONADE
These six vocalists from around the world will soon take the rap game by storm. GUEST LIST is so refreshing and I kept going back to "BLACK LEMONADE" throughout this entire year as the hook just loops around in my head while I type this. Their debut album drops on January 1st, 2022. Be on the lookout for that.
AG Club ft. Sam Truth - UGUDBRU
The West coast is always in good hands with innovative artists that randomly pop up on my radar. "UGUDBRU" was the first track I heard from AG Club and I instantly knew they're bound to be stars. They carry themselves in a similar way to legendary groups like Wu-Tang Clan and N.W.A. The switch-up on this track is so unforgettable as well.
Vince Staples - MHM
My only complaint about Vince Staples self-titled album is that it comes to an end. "MHM" is the last track on the project executively produced by Kenny Beats and it is an absolute banger.
Young Roc & Nasaan - COMPREHEND
Detroit duo delivered such a solid project with Function that embodies all the waves you want to hear while at the biggest party of the year. Young Roc is a Detroit legend who produces and raps, he tapped fellow Detroit native Nasaan for this one.
Don Toliver - What You Need
Honestly not a fan of Don Toliver but the way this song echoes throughout my home is mind boggling. The first time I heard it was at Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash so thats pretty cool too. Don Toliver created a new world with this track and came through with undeniable vocals over a hypnotizing beat.
Gold Haze & Peeweedaplug - I See Why
Another duo of stars, Chicago artists Gold Haze and Peeweedaplug team up in their project Life In Abundance. These two are living the life and are so authentic in their raps. They didn't fail to share their hopes and dreams when it comes to their solo careers and RichVi$ion. RichVi$ion is a young and hungry music collective that is ready to take Chicago by storm.
Amine - Charmander
I honestly love the turn Amine took with his music. "Charmander" finds Amine skating over a hyper pop like beat and I still can't get enough of it.
Paul The Kid - I TASTE FEAR!
If you don't know about Paul the Kid yet, your'e welcome. Born in Houston, this artist brings an immense amount of energy and versatility to the mic. "I TASTE FEAR!" finds Paul the Kid addresses his biggest fears.
Lil Tecca - MONEY ON ME
A beautiful ballad by Lil Tecca. Tecca levitates over the dreamy beat and sings about his idea of paradise.
ELIO - @elio.irl
Bedroom Pop has made its way into my rotation and the ELIO was the greatest introduction I could ask for. "@elio.irl" is one of my favorite tracks off of her Can You Hear Me Now? EP because of how bonafide it sounds. You can't sit still when you hear this song and that is what I need in Pop music today.
FLEX SINATRA - Again
Another RichVi$ion member and Chicago native, FLEX SINATRA has become one of my favorite rappers out the city this past year. With such a distinct and hoarse voice, FLEX can paint some of the most vivid pictures while rapping over grimy beats. "Again" depicts FLEX looking forward and turning away from his old life.
Jack Harlow - 21C/Delta
Confetti was one of my most played albums in 2019, Jack Harlow showed off his entire bag throughout that album. That's What They All Say was a small step back for Jack Harlow in my opinion in terms of quality. Even though he broke through at last with his latest release, it was as commercial as it gets, which is also not a bad thing.
Cochise - PLASMA
I don't even remember how I came across Cochise, but I'm glad that I did. "PLASMA" was one of the most addicting songs of the year for me.
Travis Thompson - Dylan Cole
A deep cut from Travis Thompson's heavily slept on BLVD BOY. "Dylan Cole" has Thompson seeing both sides. I love the slight distortion in his voice during the hook, Travis Thompson keeps showing me that he is one of the best young lyricists in the game.
SoGone SoFlexy - Nueces County
SoGone SoFlexy broke out into the game after he was featured on BROCKHAMPTON'S ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE. He is from the same city as lead singer in BROCKHAMPTON Kevin Abstract and is actually signed to his label Video Store as well. "Nueces County" finds SoGone SoFlexy skating over a booming Southern infused instrumental.
Kanye West - Ok Ok ft. Lil Yachty & Rooga
"Ok Ok" I'll admit is one of the more bland tracks in Kanye's discography. It just has that simple Kanye ride and charisma to it. We all know Kanye as a perfectionist and we know that he is capable of creating some of the most beautifully layered music we have ever heard. "Ok Ok" finds Kanye reminding himself that we're going to be okay, a constant theme throughout Donda.
Guapdad 4000 & !llmind - Chandler
West coast star Guapdad 4000 blew me away with his debut album 1176. The entire project was executively produced by !llmind and finds Guapdad more reflective than ever. "Chandler" is Guapdad showing off and flexing through this heavy but delicate beat.
Playboi Carti - Meh
Honestly can't really explain myself with this one. Carti has the best ad-libs in the game and shows it with "Meh". The grimy bass mixed with the horror movie like keys create such a distinct sound from the rest of Carti's discography. Whole Lotta Red in it's entirety might be the most effort Playboi Carti has put into an album.
Don0rphan ft. Mugen! The Human - 12 Am
This song holds a special place in my heart because it was the first song I wrote about for Music To My Ears. Don0rphan and Mugen! The Human are both young, immensely talented, and based in the city of Chicago. "12 Am" finds the two dealing with their demons and up late at night. I also want to say Don0rphan's short verse in the switch up is one of my favorite of the year. Everything he did was perfect. Don0rphan is also prepping to release a mixtape on December 28th, 2021 so be ready for that.
Just Wise & Matt Audio Dope - Paranoid In Illinois (RIP MF DOOM)
Just Wise told me that one of his biggest inspirations was MF DOOM and when he passed (RIP) he started writing this song. "Paranoid In Illinois (RIP MF DOOM)" is about the challenges Just Wise has faced since the beginning of the pandemic and him really taking a look at himself in the mirror.
Carter Slade - DEMON TIME
Formerly known as Superstar Jig, Carter Slade has potential to be the next big thing. His energy is undeniable, production choices are terrific, and his music also provides introspective. The keys on "Demon Time" are so bubbly and electric, this instrumental falls tight and snug into Carter Slade's hands.
Nyck Caution - Motion Sickness
Some of the cleanest drums I heard in 2021, on top of two emotional verses from Pro Era member Nyck Caution. The way Nyck harmonizes with layered vocals in the hook is mesmerizing. It has been a pleasure seeing majority of Pro Era branch out and release solo projects but I think Nyck Caution has my favorite one so far.
Smino & Monte Booker - Rice & Gravy
"Rice & Gravy" was the first single from Smino and producer Monte Booker's collab project. This song is the definition of graceful, Smino and Monte Booker have a crazy chemistry. Smino is singing about the habits he has carried from childhood to adulthood and of course his favorite dish, rice and gravy.
Kenny Mason - Storm
This was my summer song, especially when you're cruising on an empty road late at night. Kenny Mason is a genre blending rapper from Atlanta and is one of my favorites on the way up. On "Storm", Kenny mixes his jagged flow and vocals with a lo-fi like beat and it is a match made in heaven.
Rockie Fresh ft. Vic Mensa - Racer
This song rides like a modern day NY Drill beat, but Rockie Fresh and Vic Mensa delicately race over the eloquent keys. These two artists really challenged each other on this song to go past the barrier and create something fresh.
Vince Staples - ARE YOU WITH THAT?
Vince Staples wanted to offer a different side of his life in his self titled album. His monotone approach to the track was the correct choice.
JPEGMAFIA - FIX URSELF!
EP2! has not grown on me like I believed it would during my first listen, but "FIX URSELF!" never left my rotation. I'm honestly surprised that it hasn't grown yet because I'm a bigger fan of a more melodic Peggy than the relentless Peggy we heard back in 2018. The climax to the hook is one of my favorite as well and the production on this song is so polished.
Kid Cudi - Sad People
After a few questionable releases from Kid Cudi, I was relieved and ecstatic to see Cudi was prepping to drop Man On The Moon III. As I ponder about the album now I can say that the album suits comfortably within the Man On The Moon trilogy. "Sad People" has one of my favorite hooks of the year and Cudi always finds new ways to connect with his listeners.
Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow - INDUSTRY BABY
Lil Nas X is an artist who will always peak my interest when it comes to his music. This song is uber catchy, and the melody spins around in my head at least once a day. I do wish that Jack Harlow came with a stronger verse.
Mugen! the Human - Free
Mugen! the Human can make a better song than your favorite rapper, and his process is entirely DIY from his phone! "Free" was apart of a two pack of songs that debuted as the singles for his 2021 project GHOST. The strings are heavenly along with the slapping bass makes this song one you can't miss. Mugen! The Human brings his A++ game in his verses as well.
Young Roc - 2 Years Ago Today
Detroit legend Young Roc shared an amazing album with this is what i saw in my window. It dropped back in January and hasn't left my mind since. "2 Years Ago Today" finds Young Roc reminiscing about what life was like two years ago.
Guapdad 4000 & !llmind - Touch Dough
Another track from Guapdad and !llmind, Guapdad absolutely murks this classic West coast ride. The buildup to the hook is unforgettable and then when the hook hits its G-Funk mixed with modern day Hip-Hop.
Comethazine - Hallla
Another song that screams classic West coast sound, Comethazine talks the talk on "Hallla". This song was originally teased in 2020 and I was very happy to see its official release on Comethazine The Album.
Teezo Touchdown - Technically
The melodies on "Technically" are undefeated. Teezo Touchdown has potential to be one of the most versatile artists we have seen in a long time. His sense of humor mixes in perfectly with his music.
Isaiah Rashad ft. Lil Uzi Vert - From The Garden
The collaboration I didn't know I needed and frankly never thought would happen. "From The Garden" finds Isaiah Rashad using this intriguing staccato flow throughout the hook and his verses. Lil Uzi Vert jumps in and really adds his flavor to the track as well. This track didn't receive as much love as I thought it should but the real know.
Cruz Ocho - Everything Is Fine
Cruz Ocho is an independent rapper from Aurora, IL and is such a talented and profound lyricist. "Everything Is Fine" should be the new people's anthem. Cruz Ocho paints the picture of how humanity has lost touch with itself and how we mask our struggles and insecurities.
Lil Yachty ft. Louie Ray - G.I. Joe
Buddah Bless This Beat has to be one of the most underrated producers in the game right now. "G.I. Joe" finds Lil Yachty at his strongest, skating over this booming and full instrumental. Louie Ray also follows up with a solid verse.
Gold Haze - Don't Hit My Phone
RICHVI$ION has been all over this list so far, "Don't Hit My Phone" finds Chicago rapper Gold Haze turning away the people who left him when he didn't have anything. Gold Haze produces majority of his tracks and this one was engraved into my brain when I first heard it.
Kid Cudi - Solo Dolo, Pt. III
Kid Cudi created such a graphic image of what being solo dolo is like. "Solo Dolo Pt. III" finds Cudder building on elements touched on in the past solo dolo tracks. I love the distortion in Cudi's voice and how he made this track so mellow.
Armand Hammer & The Alchemist ft. Earl Sweatshirt - Falling out the Sky
The Alchemist never fails to make the most ear pleasing beats, and the falling chord progression he did on "Falling out the Sky" makes me feel like I'm skydiving in slow-motion. Earl Sweatshirt, billy woods, and ELUCID all brought their best raps for this song.
SSGKobe ft. $NOT - Calabasas
When this song played throughout my 2021, I knew that it was a good time. SSGKobe and $NOT had so much fun on "Calabasas" and with its sweet spot of two minutes in length, this song is sure to invade your rotation along with K.O. by SSGKobe.
BROCKHAMPTON ft. A$AP Rocky, A$AP Ferg - BANKROLL
It has been a long time coming for the official release of this song as it was originally teased in 2018 for a tour promo. The greatest boyband in history came with a different kind of pressure in their new album ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE. "BANKROLL" is an agressive banger that finds A$AP Rocky and Ferg fitting right in with BROCKHAMPTON.
Mugen! the Human - I Feel (Hollow)
One of the more sinister switch-ups I heard in 2021, "I Feel (Hollow)" finds Mugen! the Human letting it all go over a Jazz influenced beat that turns into lo-fi crime scene. Seriously, this artist has the potential to have a breakthrough in 2022.
Kenny Mason ft. Denzel Curry - A+
Kenny Mason's rugged vocals and intricate flows make him one of my favorite up and coming artists. He only flexes more on "A+" along with another entertaining guest verse from Denzel Curry.
FLEX SINATRA - David Beckham
FLEX never wastes a breath on the beat, "David Beckham" one of the most addicting songs I heard in 2021. You can hear how hungry FLEX sounds throughout his entire Beyond Measure project.
Nyck Caution ft. Joey Bada$$ - How You Live It
A big middle finger to Instagram because it doesn't matter how many followers you have. Nyck and Joey deliver smooth verses about the differences between their respective lifestyles compared to others.
Paul the Kid - Okay! (in my element)
One of the most sentimental outros I've heard in a while, Paul the Kid comes to Earth with himself and who he believes himself to be. The melodies in this one are insane and jagged but it makes it beautiful in the end.
Migos - Avalanche
The snazzy performance by Migos on "Avalanche" helped remind Hip-Hop fans remember that Migos are still the best in the game. Even after a questionable release with Culture II, "Avalanche" almost feels like a reminder for Migos themselves.
SpotemGottem ft. NLE Choppa - Beat Box 4
After the original song went viral and SpotemGottem released the remix with Pooh Shiesty, "Beat Box" was the first instrumental to be passed around since the "Who Run It" remixes after G Herbo decided to spazz on it. NLE Choppa was the most ideal choice for a remix of "Beat Box" and I was only counting down the days until I seen it on streaming services. I will say, I'm not disappointed at all.
VIC MENSA ft. Tish Hyman - MILLIONAIRES
A beautiful melody that was chopped up to be stuck in your head all day long. VIC MENSA raps about how the money and fame will never change his relationships.
Kid Cudi - Dive
This dance infused track samples a song by Tame Impala. I love the outer space feel Cudder created on this album and "Dive" finds Kid Cudi addicted to his significant others vibes.
Cochise - Lost It
The ad-libs and background vocals from Cochise are actually some of my favorite in any song ever. The amount of "ahhs" and "uhs" in this song is so magical and addicting, not to mention they're all placed in the perfect spot of the track. Cochise dominates this instrumental.
Travis Thompson ft. Juicy J - 7-11
One of the hardest and my favorite intro of 2021, Travis Thompson mixed his complex flows with his sweet cadences over a menacing beat. Adding Juicy J really added a flavor of the South on this pulsating track.
AG Club ft. ICECOLDBISHOP - NOHO
Jody Fontaine of AG Club the type of person to do push ups if he ever were to trip and fall. He carries himself with the utmost of swagger in his raps. Jody's verse on "NOHO" is flawless, he effortlessly skates over this instrumental. LA rapper ICECOLDBISHOP is going to be next to breakout artist from the golden state, he closed this track out so well.
Playboi Carti - Over
When Carti first teased this song, I entered a dream like state. I knew that I needed Whole Lotta Red in my ears as soon as possible. "Over" finds Carti coming to amends with his lover and asking what has changed since they fell in love. The harmonies and melodies on this song circle in my brain daily still and the album has been out for a year now.
SSGKobe - MIA
Such a dynamic instrumental, "MIA" is Louisiana rapper detailing his struggles with relationships, drugs, and even the pandemic. The young star is bound to have a big breakthrough in 2022, already having big collabs with artists such as BROCKHAMPTON, $NOT, and KA$HDAMI.
AYOCHILLMANNN & Valee - MITSUBITcHES
Valee is one of the most influential figures in Chicago Hip-Hop today. AYOCHILLMANNN tapped Valee to create this interesting project to say the least. Valee's offset flows work perfectly with AYOCHILLMANNN's production. "MITSUBITcHES" is my favorite track from the project and finds Valee floating over the lo-fi like beat.
Trippie Redd - Supernatural
Trippie's vocals may be a little stale on this one, but my goodness this switch up does something different for my ears. "Supernatural" is Trippie separating himself from other rappers in this game and showing love to his hometown. Sometimes things happen and you don't know why, but Trippie Redd has ended up being one of my favorite rappers to debut along with the Soundcloud era.
Lil Eazzyy ft. G Herbo - Onna Come Up [Remix]
Jokes on you, the remix to this song released in 2021. The original would of made my top 100 last year but a remix means that I get to hear this beat loop for a little longer. Lil Eazzyy definitely is the next hottest drill rapper to come out of Chicago, he absolutely spazzed on this beat. He has characteristics that I love to see in a young, up and coming artist. G Herbo is a pioneer when it comes to this sound so he was the most ideal artist to tap as well. Rookie Of The Year is an album you need to listen to if you haven't yet.
ELIO - hurts 2 hate somebody
In the past few years, I think that we as a people have learned the value of life. ELIO created a beautiful track with "hurts 2 hate somebody" and the message behind it needs to be heard by everyone.
DJ Scheme ft. Juice WRLD - Buck 50
I love the purple deluxe color from DJ Scheme, and if this song ended up on Juice's second posthumous album Fighting Demons it would of been the best track on there. "Buck 50" feels like a genuine release after Juice's tragic passing. DJ Scheme and Juice had a terrific chemistry, I hope we get at least one more song from the duo.
Young Roc & Nasaan - WIFEY
This song has an immense amount of bounce to it and was quickly engraved into my brain when Young Roc first teased it. Young Roc and Nasaan handled this beat the best way they could and I cannot get enough of it. I hope that this duo gets more of the love they deserves in 2022.
Pierre Bourne - 42
"42" is one of the most colorful songs of 2021. This song is almost psychedelic with the echoing vocals, chimes, keys and Pierre's mellow delivery.
BROCKHAMPTON ft. Danny Brown - BUZZCUT
My only complaint about this song is that this sounds like it should of been the group cypher for this album. I can only imagine how hard this song would go if BROCKHAMPTON decided to put more of their members on it. This song is a fever dream and the music video is just as mind boggling. Kevin and Danny Brown deliver with amazing verses.
Migos - Straightenin
"Straightenin" is vintage Migos. This is the sound, hunger, and chemistry that put them on top early in their career. Crisp production, seamless transitions between the trio, and a woozy hook. Everyone seen that snippet Quavo posted on Twitter before this song was released, at that moment we all knew Migos was back. Culture III has actually got a lot of playback from me throughout the year as well.
Baby Keem ft. Kendrick Lamar - family ties
I have a mouthful to say about Kendrick Lamar, but I'll save that for a late date. We all know he is one of the greatest to ever step in the booth. So why does he have to sound like that angry old Hip-Hop head? Anyways, drums. Baby Keem didn't have to do that to those drums, he absolutely took over. "I was seeing double in the projects-" has to be my favorite line from this year.
Saba - Ziplock
Chicago native and Pivot Gang founder Saba has finally announced his follow up to CARE FOR ME that will release in February. If "Ziplock" is any indication of how FEW GOOD THINGS will sound, we are in for another classic. Although the first official singles for his album find Saba stepping out of his comfort zone. On "Ziplock", Saba raps over a warm piano driven beat about how he shields his feelings from the world and the changes that come with fame.
Bas & J. Cole ft. Lil Tjay - The Jackie
Dreamville star Bas had my summer anthem for 2021. "The Jackie", produced by T-Minus, is a addicting melodic track that has Bas, J. Cole, and Lil Tjay cruising down the Jackie Robinson highway in New York.
Chase Alex, IZZIHOT! & LAN Party - Hard 2 Blend
I was absolutely blown away when I heard this track. Chase Alex kills the hook, IZZIHOT! delivers such a memorable verse, and LAN Party was flexing with this production. This track is so warm and finds these genre blending artists at their very best. Chase Alex is also on my list of artists to breakthrough in 2022.
AG Club ft. Sam Truth - A Bitch Curious
This slick jam by AG Club can be played in almost every setting. The angles that Baby boy, Jody Fontaine and Sam Truth are all interesting to hear as they harmonize on this track.
Baby Keem ft. Kendrick Lamar - range brothers
Baby Keem never fails to deliver tracks that constantly evolve. The beat switch ups on this track are insane. Although, I do have to address the elephant in the room, if "top of da mornin" didn't exist this would be my song of the year. I also do my best to ignore the interesting vocal choice Baby Keem went with in the first verse. Baby Keem has my favorite verses of the year in the second part of the song, the bars were immaculate and his delivery was so entertaining.
VIC MENSA ft. Zacari - FR33DOM
"FR33DOM" is VIC MENSA in his final form. ON a track like this I can see Vic handling the hook himself, but the addition of Zacari make this song truly elite. Zacari delivers a heartwarming hook and Vic raps about racial/social injustice in the switchup. The flows and bars on this one are nonstop.
J. Cole - i n t e r l u d e
I need a collab tape from T-Minus and J. Cole. Songs like "MIDDLE CHILD" and "i n t e rl u d e" are J. Cole at his melodic peak. This track is a story from Cole, detailing his life as a child and his upbringing.
IDK ft. Offset - Shoot My Shot
IDK has some of the best production choices. IDK and Offset dominate this beat and create the most vibrant and arguably catchy song of 2021.
Kanye West ft. Vory & Lil Durk - Jonah
This track gets a surprising amount of hate, this has to be the most heart-wrenching and melancholy hook I've heard in a while. Vory absolutely hit this ball out the park. Kanye and Lil Durk circle back and harmonize about the loss and betrayal of loved ones. "Jonah" is based on an artist in Kentucky named Jonah Ware and these three absolutely pour out all of their emotions.
Young Roc - Witch On My Back
Young Roc never fails to pay homage to his hometown in his everyday life and in his music. The feeling anonymity and the pure grittiness on this track makes this one a can't miss. The scratchy vocals in the beginning set the tone for the track, and then Young Roc comes in and flexes his authenticity.
Baby Keem ft. Travis Scott - durag activity
No more memes about black air force ones, we got durag activity now. These two feed off of each others energy so well and honestly, I hope that they work together more in the future. "durag activity" is Baby Keem and Travis Scott rapping about the risky lifestyles they live along with their influences in life.
Isaiah Rashad ft. Duke Deuce - Lay Wit Ya
The utmost of Southern flair, Zay and Duke Deuce turn up over this Hollywood Cole produced track. "Lay Wit Ya" was the first single from Isaiah Rashad's 2021 album The House Is Burning and it was the most ideal choice. The chimes bring an everlasting feeling of darkness and Isaiah freely graces this track in the hook and his verses.
J. Cole - a m a r i
J. Cole has been sitting comfortably at the throne of hip-hop, but he still continues to come with constant pressure and improvements. "a m a r i " is Cole rapping about his come-up in North Carolina along with how he is still the best in the game. I'm still in awe of The Off-Season, J. Cole never ceases to amaze me.
Playboi Carti - Punk Monk
Carti's vocal inflections throughout the entirety of Whole Lotta Red have got to be the most intriguing of his career. Sometimes it even sounds like someone is choking him while he records. "Punk Monk" finds Carti actually story telling, detailing his relationships with some of his fellow rappers in Hip-Hop. This instrumental is addicting, and the way Carti expresses himself is outstanding. If you're still sleeping on this album you need to wake up.
Pierre Bourne - HULU
The most dank bass you'll hear in 2021. "HULU" is an angelic lullaby and it is one of the peaks of The Life Of Pierre 5. Pierre Bourne going from melodic chants to mellow raps is him at his best as well.
Kanye West ft. Travis Scott & Baby Keem - Praise God
Although I prefer the darker organs in an older version of this song, the one we got on Donda rides so well. We get vocals from Donda West herself and you should really listen when she says, "even if you are not ready for the day, it cannot always be night". The organs and strings come in and you're drawn in. This instrumental suits the three extremely well and not to mention Baby Keem has a breakout verse.
Kenny Mason - Partments
The flow and delivery Kenny Mason decided to go with on "Partments" is insanely original. The guitar combined with Kenny's cadence on this track makes it so soothing and addicting even though the subject matter is somber. This song will never get old and Kenny Mason is in for a big 2022.
Isaiah Rashad ft. Iamdoechii & Kal Banx - wat u sed
The synths mixed with this bass line make this song so magical. All three artists on this song were impeccable, Kal Banx delivers a catchy hook, while Isaiah and Iamdoechii glide over this peaceful instrumental with stellar percussion.
Guapdad 4000 & !llmind - How Many
The most genius sample of 2021, Guapdad and !llmind flipped Alice Deejay's "Better Of Alone". Guapdad 4000's presence on this track along with his lyrics make this song so much more meaningful. I have been a fan of Guapdad since his 2020 release Platinum Falcon Tape, Vol. 1 and he has really capitalized on his versatility as a vocalist. I highly recommend his new album 1176.
Baby Keem - no sense
This song gives me endless chills, the confusion and emotions in Baby Keem's voice is evolve with every line. The hook is so simple yet so captivating. When this song was first teased I immediately knew Baby Keem was on a different wave for his debut. Although I still prefer is 2019 release DIE FOR MY B***H, The Melodic Blue has grown on me more than I thought it would. Baby Keem is a true breath of fresh air.
If you made it this far, don't forget to stay in tune with what the blog is doing in 2022, I'm forecasting an immense expansion. You can check out the full playlists of my top 100 on Spotify and Apple Music. Be sure to listen in order as well!
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