The Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2025

Tony Brainz
Aug 26, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Oct 6, 2025

Here's a curated breakdown of the most acclaimed and talked-about hip-hop releases of 2025:

1. Clipse –Let God Sort ‘Em Out

After a 16-year hiatus, Virginia Beach duo Clipse (Pusha T and Malice) return with a Pharrell-produced masterpiece. Critics are calling it one of the year's best. Their razor-sharp lyricism, combined with Pharrell’s inventive beats, has reestablished their legendary status in hip-hop. The Guardian and GQ highlight this album as a significant comeback. Uproxx ranks it as the year’s top album, stating, “Pusha T has had the same marketing plan for all his projects: 'I just made the rap album of the year.' ... deeper than Coke Raps.” UPROXX DAR Sports Media also places it at #1 on their mid-year list. Medium

2. Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist –Alfredo 2

This sequel pairs Freddie Gibbs' sharp lyricism with The Alchemist's masterful production. Guest features from Anderson .Paak, JID, and Larry June further elevate the release. It stands out as a highlight of mid-2025. Medium

3. Playboi Carti –MUSIC

A triumphant return after five years, Carti's MUSIC broke Spotify records with nearly 140 million first-day streams. It features heavy-hitters like Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Lil Uzi Vert, and Future. However, it has not been without controversy over AI rumors. LOS40

4. Lil Baby –WHAM

Released in early 2025, WHAM is Lil Baby’s fourth studio album and the final installment of his "Hard" series. Featuring big names like Young Thug, Future, GloRilla, Travis Scott, and 21 Savage, it’s both commercially slick and lyrically potent. Wikipedia UPROXX

5. Lil Durk –Deep Thoughts

This deeply personal release reflects Lil Durk’s growth amid tumultuous personal events. Featuring Future, Lil Baby, and Jhené Aiko, the album debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200. It underscores his continued artistic relevance. Wikipedia

6. Tyler, the Creator –Don’t Tap the Glass

Tyler’s genre-blending ninth studio album pushes boundaries with hip-hop, house, funk, and techno influences. Released on July 21, it debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and features guests like Pharrell, Madison McFerrin, and Yebba. Wikipedia

7. Lil Wayne –Tha Carter VI

A long-awaited installment in Wayne’s iconic Carter series, released June 6. Featuring an all-star guest list—including Big Sean, Andrea Bocelli, Kodak Black, Nicki Minaj, Future, and more—this album marks a high-profile return. Wikipedia

8. Gunna –The Last Wun

Dropped August 8, this extensive, 25-track album serves as Gunna’s final release under YSL Records. Featuring Burna Boy, Wizkid, Offset, Nechie, and Asake, it’s a bold, global-leaning exit. Wikipedia

9. Slick Rick –Victory

Marking his first new record since 1999, this visual album is accompanied by a 30-minute film. It includes collaborations with Nas, Giggs, and Estelle. It’s a triumphant return for the storytelling legend. Pitchfork

10. Saba & No I.D. –From The Private Collection…

A rich, soulful collaboration between Saba and production legend No I.D., it weaves introspective lyricism with lush arrangements. The album has earned praise for its emotional depth. Medium UPROXX

Honorable Mentions

Larry June, 2 Chainz & The Alchemist –Life Is Beautiful

Creamy production and effortless flow make this February release notable. Hip Hop Golden Age

Yasiin Bey & The Alchemist –Forensics
(anticipated)

Hyped as a lyrical and production masterclass. Respect My Region

Summary Table

Rank	Album & Artist	Highlight
1	Let God Sort ‘Em Out – Clipse	Legendary duo return w/ pop-free intensity
2	Alfredo 2 – Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist	Chemistry and grit recharge the franchise
3	MUSIC – Playboi Carti	Viral, high-profile, divisive comeback
4	WHAM – Lil Baby	High-caliber features and slick production
5	Deep Thoughts – Lil Durk	Personal narrative amid adversity
6	Don’t Tap the Glass – Tyler, the Creator	Eclectic, dance-infused sonic playgrounds
7	Tha Carter VI – Lil Wayne	Multi-generational collaborations
8	The Last Wun – Gunna	Global features, final YSL output
9	Victory – Slick Rick	Vintage storytelling in visual form
10	From The Private Collection… – Saba & No I.D.	Soulful craftsmanship and reflective vibe