The best Old-School Hip-Hop albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 old-school hip-hop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — old-school hip-hop
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
Dr. Dre
Compton
A powerful blend of G-funk grooves and hard-hitting lyricism reflecting life in Compton's complex socio-political landscape.
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KRS-One
Meta-Historical
An incisive blend of political lyricism and classic boom bap beats that critiques contemporary society while celebrating hip-hop culture.
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Pete Rock
Return of the SP1200
A vibrant tapestry of soulful samples, intricate beats, and jazz-inflected rhythms, embodying the essence of hip-hop's golden age.
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Pete Rock
Don't Smoke Rock
A lush tapestry of jazz-infused beats and sharp lyricism that reflects the essence of East Coast hip-hop.
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Too Short
Still Blowin'
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KRS-One
The BDP Album
A vibrant blend of classic boom bap beats and incisive lyrics, reflecting KRS-One's enduring commitment to hip-hop's roots.
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Ice Cube
I Am the West
A confident blend of West Coast beats and sharp lyrical commentary reflecting on personal and societal issues.
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Ice Cube
Everythang's Corrupt
A gritty blend of West Coast beats and sharp political commentary delivered with Ice Cube's signature intensity.
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Too Short
No Trespassing
A gritty blend of unfiltered narratives and bass-heavy beats, encapsulating the raw essence of West Coast hip-hop.
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Kool G Rap
Offer You Can't Refuse
A gritty blend of street narratives and hard-hitting beats that echo the raw essence of classic East Coast hip-hop.
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Kool G Rap
Son of G Rap
A gritty exploration of street life, blending sharp lyricism with haunting beats and a relentless flow characteristic of classic East Coast hip-hop.
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