4. Lil’ Wayne – Tha Carter II
If there was ever a time Lil’ Wayne was good at rapping, it was during and around his run with Tha Carter II and III. While hip-hop fans tend to be divided on whether or not Weezy deserves recognition, the impact he had with this album and the mixtapes following it is undeniable. Looking back on it now though, it can be argued that Weezy mostly makes disposable rap; it may have that “hot” factor when it comes out, but the songs don’t have much replay value all these years later. He’s even lacked the “hot” factor with his most recent releases, but may be able to regain it as he prepares to release Tha Carter V this year.
3. Shad – When This Is Over
Funded by the winnings from a talent competition, Shad’s debut album is even more special knowing that he went on to become one of Canada’s most prominent emcees. This album was the start of something great, as you could hear the raw talent Shad had as an emcee before any of the award nominations and international tours. The production may have been quiet and minimalistic, but Shad’s brilliant lyrical concepts and skilled rhyming carried this album. This was the first step towards building a strong discography that’s among Canada’s best.
2. Tonedeff – Archetype
Always one to put quality over quantity, Archetype remains the only album Tonedeff has released to this day. While running QN5 Music, Tonedeff has kept his name relevant by making guest appearances on almost every CunninLynguists album released over the years, and more recently has made a few EP’s leading up to his sophomore album, Polymer. Besides the new material and a few older mixtapes, Archetype is all fans have to fall back on. It is a great album in which Tonedeff showcases all sides to his personality and his wide range of talents (producing, rapping, singing), but one album every ten years leaves a lot to be wanted.
1. 50 Cent – The Massacre
Whether or not The Massacre has stood the test of time is questionable, despite having amazing sales numbers. Similar to Lil’ Wayne, 50 Cent had everyone’s attention when this album dropped, but the songs on this album seem to have lost their replay value. There are a few tracks that remain the bread and butter for strippers and sex workers everywhere, but The Massacre otherwise has little to offer hip-hop heads in 2015. It serves as a quick snapshot of a moment in 50 Cent’s career, but doesn’t necessarily live up to the timeless classic its sales numbers suggest. Its sales numbers do however reflect the glory days, as 50 has never since been able to match them.
What did you think of these albums? Did we miss any of your favourites? Let us know in the comments below, or Tweet us @CultVultures or @SYpherSights!
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