The albums that define
alternative hip-hop.
Our picks for where to start with alternative hip-hop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top alternative hip-hop artists
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The alternative hip-hop essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Twenty One Pilots
Breach
A genre-bending exploration that merges introspective lyrics with eclectic soundscapes and pulsating rhythms.
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Twenty One Pilots
Trench
A dynamic blend of alternative rock and hip-hop, layered with introspective lyrics and vibrant production.
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Jovanotti
Lorenzo 2002 – Il quinto mondo
A vibrant fusion of hip-hop, folk, and world influences that celebrates life and love with infectious energy.
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Jovanotti
Safari
A vibrant fusion of world music rhythms and poetic lyrics creating an uplifting auditory journey through life and love.
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Kendrick Lamar
The Kendrick Lamar EP
An introspective blend of sharp lyricism and eclectic production that channels the struggles of urban life with profound authenticity.
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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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Black Eyed Peas
Behind the Front
Eclectic blend of hip-hop and pop infused with Latin rhythms and socially conscious lyrics.
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Black Eyed Peas
Bridging the Gap
A vibrant fusion of hip-hop and pop, merging catchy hooks with socially conscious lyrics and eclectic production styles.
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Kool Keith
The Return of Dr. Octagon
Surreal narratives blend with abstract beats, creating a psychedelic soundscape that defies conventional hip-hop structures.
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Kool Keith
The Lost Masters
A chaotic blend of surreal storytelling and raw beats that challenge conventional hip-hop narratives.
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Nas
It Was Written
A cinematic blend of storytelling and rhythmic precision, navigating the complexities of street life with a reflective lens.
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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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Beastie Boys
Lee Majors Come Again
A playful yet gritty exploration of hip-hop's roots, blending punk energy with sharp lyrical wit.
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Beastie Boys
Jimmy James
A playful blend of hip-hop and rock, showcasing the Beastie Boys' signature irreverence and eclectic sampling.
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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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Zion I
Deep Water Slang V2.0
'Deep Water Slang V2.0' offers a seamless mix of catchy beats and thought-provoking lyrics, making it accessible yet impactful for newcomers. Its diverse range of tracks highlights the duo's versatility and sets the tone for their artistic journey.
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Zion I
Atomic Clock
A vibrant blend of alternative hip-hop that fuses introspective lyrics with eclectic beats and melodic hooks.
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Blackbear
Anonymous
A raw exploration of heartbreak and self-reflection wrapped in catchy hooks and modern production.
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Blackbear
Everything Means Nothing
This album highlights Blackbear's signature blend of R&B and hip-hop, featuring catchy hooks along with deeper emotional narratives. It's a great introduction to both his sound and thematic concerns.
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Janelle Monáe
Dirty Computer
A bold fusion of funk, R&B, and hip-hop that champions self-acceptance and liberation through vibrant storytelling.
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Janelle Monáe
The Audition
An eclectic blend of funk, soul, and alternative hip-hop that showcases Janelle Monáe's innovative artistry and distinctive vocal style.
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Lil Uzi Vert
Red & White (EP)
A vibrant mix of playful melodies and introspective lyrics set against eclectic trap beats that push musical boundaries.
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Lil Uzi Vert
Pink Tape
A vibrant blend of emo rap and psychedelic soundscapes punctuated by Uzi's signature melodic delivery and introspective lyrics.
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By decade
Where alternative hip-hop landed in each era.