The best Alternative Hip-Hop albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 alternative hip-hop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — alternative hip-hop
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
Twenty One Pilots
Trench
A dynamic blend of alternative rock and hip-hop, layered with introspective lyrics and vibrant production.
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Twenty One Pilots
Regional at Best
A frenetic blend of genres that juxtaposes introspective lyrics with vibrant, eclectic instrumentation.
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Kendrick Lamar
Good Kid, M.A.A.D City
A cinematic narrative unfolds through vivid storytelling and intricate production, blending streetwise bravado with reflective introspection.
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Kendrick Lamar
To Pimp a Butterfly
A bold fusion of jazz, funk, spoken word, and hip-hop that confronts systemic racism and personal introspection with relentless energy.
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Black Eyed Peas
Masters of the Sun Vol. 1
A vibrant blend of hip-hop and pop, replete with introspective lyrics and infectious rhythms celebrating culture and unity.
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Black Eyed Peas
The Beginning
A vibrant blend of dance-pop and hip-hop that radiates infectious energy and celebratory lyrics.
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Kool Keith
The Legend of Tashan Dorrsett
A surreal blend of abstract narratives and unconventional beats that push the boundaries of hip-hop storytelling.
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Kool Keith
Keith
A kaleidoscopic blend of abstract lyricism and experimental beats that defies conventional hip-hop boundaries.
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Nas
Distant Relatives
A fusion of rich African rhythms and sharp lyrical storytelling that bridges cultural divides and addresses social issues.
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Nas
Nasir
A gritty blend of sharp lyricism and soulful production, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of urban life.
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Beastie Boys
Hot Sauce Committee Part Two
A vibrant fusion of playful beats, sharp wordplay, and eclectic samples showcasing the Beastie Boys' signature genre-blurring style.
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Lil Peep
Goth Angel Sinner
A haunting blend of emo rap and melodic pop-punk that captures the fragility of youth and love.
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Lil Peep
Come Over When You're Sober, Pt. 1
A haunting blend of emo rap and alternative rock, layered with introspective lyrics and lo-fi production.
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Jovanotti
Lorenzo 2015 CC.
A vibrant fusion of pop, folk, and hip-hop that celebrates life with infectious melodies and uplifting rhythms.
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Jovanotti
Ora
A vibrant fusion of pop and hip-hop, infused with world music rhythms and heartfelt lyrical explorations.
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Fun Lovin' Criminals
Fun, Live and Criminal
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Fun Lovin' Criminals
Classic Fantastic
A vibrant blend of funk, hip-hop, and rock that carries a playful yet reflective tone throughout its tracks.
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Donald Glover
Royalty
An eclectic blend of genres, merging introspective lyricism with experimental production that reflects a nuanced exploration of identity.
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Donald Glover
"Awaken, My Love!"
A vibrant tapestry of psychedelic soul and funk that intertwines haunting melodies with introspective storytelling.
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A$AP Rocky
Testing
Experimental beats intertwine with introspective lyricism, creating a soundscape that challenges conventional hip-hop boundaries.
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A$AP Rocky
At. Long. Last. ASAP
A surreal blend of psychedelic melodies and introspective lyrics creates a hypnotic soundscape that pushes hip-hop's boundaries.
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Machine Gun Kelly
Bloom
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Machine Gun Kelly
Half Naked & Almost Famous
A frenetic blend of rap and punk energy with anthemic hooks and confessional lyrics that capture youthful defiance.
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Travis Scott
Days Before Rodeo
A sonic landscape blending atmospheric beats with introspective lyrics, encapsulating the tension between ambition and vulnerability.
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