Recommended hip-hop/rap

[Western Music] A landmark masterpiece in hip-hop history! A fundamental album you should know

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Hip-hop has a long history, and its influence extends not only to other genres but also to culture and fashion.

Here in Japan, there are many examples of outstanding artists achieving commercial success, yet many people may still shy away from the genre due to certain lingering images.

In this article, we’ve compiled a collection of classic albums—centered on epoch-making works from each era—of hip-hop, which is no exaggeration to say has become the core of popular music overseas.

Take this opportunity to savor hip-hop, a musical form that continues to evolve!

[Western Music] A Landmark Hip-Hop Masterpiece! One Essential Album You Should Know (41–50)

EardrumTalib Kweli

Talib Kweli – Eardrum (Full Album)

EardrumTalib Kweli

From the late 1990s through the 2000s, Talib Kweli continued to make a powerful impact on the hip-hop scene.

His album Eardrum, released in August 2007, can truly be described as an homage to hip-hop’s golden era.

Featuring an all-star lineup of guests like Kanye West and Norah Jones, the album peaked at No.

2 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Its blend of socially conscious messages and refined beats resonates deeply with listeners.

With tracks that incorporate elements of jazz and soul, it’s a record recommended not just for hip-hop fans, but for anyone who loves music itself.

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[Western Music] A Landmark Album in Hip-Hop History! One Essential Record You Should Know (51–60)

Food & LiquorLupe Fiasco

Lupe Fiasco – Food & Liquor (Full Album)

Food & LiquorLupe Fiasco

Lupe Fiasco’s debut album, Food & Liquor, is the work that announced his talent to the world.

Released in September 2006, it reached No.

8 on the Billboard 200 and earned four Grammy nominations, receiving widespread critical acclaim.

While the album features tracks that tackle weighty themes such as poverty, terrorism, and racism, Lupe’s distinctive poetic expression and sophisticated beats create a sonic world that deeply resonates with listeners.

Focusing as well on small dramas hidden in everyday life—like the story of a skateboarding youth or the struggles between a single mother and her child—this album is also highly recommended for those new to hip-hop.

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In conclusion

Hip-hop is now mainstream on the charts overseas, and even in the 2020s new styles continue to emerge.

Naturally, the history of hip-hop can’t be told with only the classic albums featured in this article.

If you’re ready to dive into the deeper world of hip-hop, use this piece as a stepping stone and be sure to explore other works as well!