We’re almost halfway through 2016, and this year has already been a better year for music than the last. Some of today’s biggest artists, including Kanye West, Beyonce and Drake, have released albums this year, but some of the best projects released have been from artists with less star power. It’s time to catch you up on some of the latest and hottest releases.
Chance The Rapper — “Coloring Book” — May 13
It’s been over three years since “Acid Rap” dropped, but Chance The Rapper finally released his third mixtape, titled “Coloring Book,” on Friday. “Coloring Book” has an
incredible list of features consisting of Kanye West, 2 Chainz, Lil Wayne, Jeremih, Young Thug, Lil Yachty, Future and more. Besides the short time the mixtape spent on DatPiff, “Coloring Book” can be streamed exclusively on Apple Music for free but will be available everywhere soon. Definitely take a listen to “Coloring Book” if you haven’t already.
Post Malone — “August 26th” — May 13
Post Malone broke through with his single “White Iverson” in 2015, which was easily one of the best songs released last year. He finally released his debut mixtape, “August 26th,” on Friday. The mixtape has a handful of features coming from 2 Chainz, 1st, Jeremih, Lil Yachty, Jaden Smith and others. Post Malone is unique in the sense that he can rap on a banger like “Monte” and then transition into singing “Hollywood Dreams,” where he samples Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” You can download “August 26th” for free.
Skepta — “Konnichiwa” — May 6
If you aren’t familiar with Skepta, he’s a dope rapper out of London, and he released his fourth studio album, “Konnichiwa,” earlier this month. Skepta is extremely underrated in the U.S. because many people don’t listen to U.K. rap, but I can assure you he’s one of the best.
Madeintyo — “You Are Forgiven” — April 27
Madeintyo made noise with his hit single “Uber Everywhere” in late 2015, and he dropped a mixtape titled “You Are Forgiven” in late April. Madeintyo (pronounced “Made in Tokyo”) is new to the game, and you should be familiar with him.
A$AP Ferg — “Always Strive and Prosper” — April 22
A$AP Ferg released his sophomore album, “Always Strive and Prosper.” “Trap Lord” wasn’t a great album, but it definitely had its moments, with bangers like “Shabba” and “Work (Remix)” that still go hard today. “Always Strive and Prosper” is one of the best albums this year.
Lil Uzi Vert — “Lil Uzi Vert Vs. The World” — April 15
Lil Uzi Vert generated a buzz in 2015 leading up to his debut mixtape, “Luv is Rage,” in December. With songs like “7 am” and “Top,” Lil Uzi Vert proved he is one of the best new artists in the game, and now, he has showed he’s here to stay.
