Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 110 Best Albums of the 2010s, representing a varied cross-section of artists, genres, and styles. Click “Next Album” below to explore each album in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & album index here.
NIPSEY HUSSLE | Victory Lap
All Money In No Money Out/Atlantic (2018)
Selected by Kenneth Hicks
Sad circumstances turned Nipsey Hussle into a household name. But Nipsey deserved the world's attention long before his untimely death, and Victory Lap is a prime example why. There's a musicality to the album's sound that matches the weight of Nipsey's lyrics. He raps about topics that tend to clash: self-discovery, pursuit of wealth, gang culture, Black pride. But he does so with a wisdom and poise that's one of a kind. Nipsey's voice proves to be as distinct as his worldview and together they demand your attention throughout the LP.
LISTEN & WATCH: