The 20 Best D.C. Area Albums Of 2021: #5-#1

December 31, 2021 JUKEBOXDC Staff Editorials, Music No Comments  

For those of us who have existed within the D.C. Metropolitan area (not just D.C., but I’m not using that dumb ass term here), we have been able to witness what could be considered a second renaissance in hip hop — artists like Rico Nasty, IDK, and Cordae (yes, he counts) have continued a path made golden by Wale, Shy Glizzy, and Logic. Even better: there are a wealth of talented artists that are currently giving us an idea of what’s to come.

In this editorial, JUKEBOX:DC has created a ranked list of albums that we feel have had the greatest impact this year. This isn’t just about sales or stream — an album’s quality and creativeness are among other factors considered. As you’ll see, these are also albums that we’ve shared at the time of their respective releases — if we’ve missed anything, feel free to let us know so that we can be more on point moving forward.

Without further adieu, step into the rabbit hole below.

PREVIOUSLY: #20-16 — #15-11 — #10-6

#5: No Savage – Life Of A Savage 2 (READ MORE/STREAM)

There should be zero debate at this point — No Savage has skyrocketed to the top of D.C. rap’s echelon in 2021. Solidifying this argument is the success of his latest project Life Of A Savage 2, which sees a couple of assist from fellow rising star NoCap and Glizzy Gang cohort Shy Glizzy. Immediately after its release, No Savage and his supporters made sure to confirm its position on both Apple Music and Billboard’s charts — just imagine what he’s going to accomplish next?

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#4: Premo Rice – The Rice Tape (READ MORE/STREAM)

When it comes to music from this area, we would consider Premo Rice to be an anomaly — despite making music separate from what’s prevalent here, the P.G. County star has managed to maintain a successful career all his own. Case in point: his latest project, The Rice Tape, sees collaborations with Larry June, Akeem Ali, Young Deji, Southside Gauxst, and more. We’re not sure if he sees himself as underrated, but we definitely do — nobody around here is creating classic cuts like this.

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Sorry to be anti-climatic but the top three really shouldn’t be anyone’s surprise. So — with that — we’ll keep it simple for those included: GoldLink, IDK, and (of course) Wale have continued to bless the masses with top tier, against-the-grain type vibes that both solidify their already concrete careers and help those under them that look to push to the forefront with a unique sound all their own. We really don’t feel as if anyone can argue that — ESPECIALLY in regards to Wale, who’s largely responsible for the spotlight on this city to begin with. Detractors can head elsewhere, period. ALSO: Yes, these three albums are the best out this year.

#3: GoldLink – HARAM! (READ MORE/STREAM)

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#2: IDK – USEE4YOURSELF (READ MORE/STREAM)

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#1: Wale – Folarin II (READ MORE/STREAM)

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The 20 Best D.C. Area Albums Of 2021: #10-#6

December 30, 2021 JUKEBOXDC Staff Editorials No Comments  

For those of us who have existed within the D.C. Metropolitan area (not just D.C., but I’m not using that dumb ass term here), we have been able to witness what could be considered a second renaissance in hip hop — artists like Rico Nasty, IDK, and Cordae (yes, he counts) have continued a path made golden by Wale, Shy Glizzy, and Logic. Even better: there are a wealth of talented artists that are currently giving us an idea of what’s to come.

In this editorial, JUKEBOX:DC has created a ranked list of albums that we feel have had the greatest impact this year. This isn’t just about sales or stream — an album’s quality and creativeness are among other factors considered. As you’ll see, these are also albums that we’ve shared at the time of their respective releases — if we’ve missed anything, feel free to let us know so that we can be more on point moving forward.

Without further adieu, step into the rabbit hole below.

PREVIOUSLY: #20-16 — #15-11

#10: Big Flock – All Eyez On Me (READ MORE/STREAM)

Two years from his long-awaited release from prison, Big Flock blessed fans with All Eyez On Me, a 14-track offering that featured hip hop heavyweights EST Gee and Pooh Shiesty — the latter of whom provided his assistance on Flock’s runaway hit “187 Shiesty.” Other standouts like “Shot Caller,” “Credit,” and the absolutely poignant “Miss It” added to what was easily one of the best projects out of the DMV — and not just this year, either.

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#9: Glizzy Gang – Don’t Feed The Sharks (READ MORE/STREAM)

Shy Glizzy’s dominance as a D.C. artist has been in place for quite some time now, so it only makes sense that the Glizzy Gang captain bring out his crew for a formal introduction from within the commercial landscape. Enter Don’t Feed The Sharks, which sees the “Awesome” star alongside No Savage, Taliban Glizzy, Goo Glizzy, Doe Glizzy, and 3 Glizzy — all of whom have been buzzing as solo artists. Add in notable co-signs from Pressa and freakin’ YoungBoy Never Broke Again and you have an all-around success on wax from any vantage point.

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#8: Marino Infantry – Enter The Infantry, Vol. 2 (READ MORE/STREAM)

A$AP Ant’s Marino Infantry movement continues to hold court in both the music and fashion industries. Following the well-received Enter The Infantry comes it’s even better sequel, which sees the Baltimore head honcho joined by fellow Parkway stars LuLu P, Baby 9eno, Soduh, and more — notable producers like Sparkheem, E-Major Unruly, Mannyvelli, Ceez Neckmusik, Lord Fubu, and Spizzledoe help to make the hefty project one that will continue to get plays well into the new year.

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#7: Shordie Shordie and Murda Beatz – Memory Lane (READ MORE/STREAM)

In addition to A$AP Ant, we would consider Shordie Shordie to be one of the biggest artists out of Baltimore — and why wouldn’t he? The Peso Da Mafia talent has become a star in his own right, thanks to smash hits like Bitchuary and top tier projects like >Music. Take his abilities with the pen and match it with production from mega-beatsmith Murda Beatz and you’re going to get one of the best albums this year, both from the D.C./Baltimore area and in the country as a whole. We’d also be remiss not to mention the Trippie Redd appearance on “LOVE.”

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#6: Black Fortune – OSSHMOB (READ MORE/STREAM)

Do you know what makes this a top ten release for us? Not only does OSSHMOB continue to show Black Fortune musical versatility (serious, check out OSSHROCK and OSSHLORD if you’re not hip), the P.G. County representative also used said platform to show love to many of his peers — 3ohBlack, Goonew, MoneyMarr, Lil Dude, Xanman, KnukleHead and Fat Trel all make appearances on the 11-track body of work. We don’t think there’s much more that needs to be said.

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The 20 Best D.C. Area Albums Of 2021: #15-#11

December 29, 2021 JUKEBOXDC Staff Editorials, Music 2 Comments  

For those of us who have existed within the D.C. Metropolitan area (not just D.C., but I’m not using that dumb ass term here), we have been able to witness what could be considered a second renaissance in hip hop — artists like Rico Nasty, IDK, and Cordae (yes, he counts) have continued a path made golden by Wale, Shy Glizzy, and Logic. Even better: there are a wealth of talented artists that are currently giving us an idea of what’s to come.

In this editorial, JUKEBOX:DC has created a ranked list of albums that we feel have had the greatest impact this year. This isn’t just about sales or stream — an album’s quality and creativeness are among other factors considered. As you’ll see, these are also albums that we’ve shared at the time of their respective releases — if we’ve missed anything, feel free to let us know so that we can be more on point moving forward.

Without further adieu, step into the rabbit hole below.

PREVIOUSLY: #20-16

#15: Xanman – Like Tony 6 (READ MORE/STREAM)

At one point, it appeared as if Xanman’s trajectory was parallel to that of Jonny Shipes, who’s more or less best known for his Cinematic Music Group imprint. Up until just recently, it looked as if Xanman was back on the truly independent route — that was until a video surfaced showing his alignment with Sauce Walka. Before the outcome of that arrives (said to be titled Rap Like The Rent Due), those not familiar can get an idea of the Maryland star’s off-kilter, rewind worthy bars via the top tier Like Tony 6. NOTE: Any version outside of what’s on Soundcloud is definitely short a track or two.

#14: WillThaRapper – 50K (READ MORE/STREAM)

Following the Deluxe edition of last year’s Active, WillThaRapper struck the ground hard with 50K, a 10-track offering that continues the Maryland’s star’s penchant for ever-changing follows and street-oriented subject matter. A long way from “Pull Up Hop Out” (and, presumably, his deal with Republic), WillThaRapper has no plans of giving up his position as one of this area’s rap frontrunners. Hopefully, there’s plenty more to come in 2022.

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#13: Q Da Fool – Rich Shootas 3 (READ MORE/STREAM)

Back in April, Q Da Fool dropped off the third installment of his Rich Shootas series, which saw a couple of features from Lil Mar and Icewear Vezzo. Not only did this project spawn a very dope Deluxe version, 2021 also saw the Maryland talent bless his fans with My Heart A Graveyard and Twin — the latter of which saw a Deluxe upgrade of its own. Even with his current legal issues, Q Da Fool is still dropping off loose cuts for his fans to enjoy.

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#12: Goonew – Short Temper (READ MORE/STREAM)

Keeping it one hundred, the main thing that’s probably standing in Goonew’s way is his legal issues. Despite this, the Maryland emcee has remained one of this area’s most important — this is also the case for frequent collaborator Lil Dude. Back in March, fans got to check out Short Temper, a 15-track offering full of his signature whisper flows that saw additional assists from Lil Dude, Xanman, and Seddy Hendrinx.

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#11: Baby 9eno – Militant Mind (READ MORE/STREAM)

This isn’t to negate anyone else on this list, but Baby 9eno has been grinding musically for some time now, and he’s overdue for a trip to the next level of success in this industry. Contributions to Marino Infantry aside, the D.C. rising star really set the new standard with his Digital series in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Then, back in February, he gifted the world with Militant Mind, a nine-track offering with collaborations alongside BigBoss Donno, Tae Dawg, Cheecho, and Duwop. We can also imagine what the next drop for 9eno will sound like — we are confident that it will tower over many of his competitors in the process.

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The 20 Best D.C. Area Albums Of 2021: #20-#16

December 28, 2021 JUKEBOXDC Staff Editorials, Music 3 Comments  

For those of us who have existed within the D.C. Metropolitan area (not just D.C., but I’m not using that dumb ass term here), we have been able to witness what could be considered a second renaissance in hip hop — artists like Rico Nasty, IDK, and Cordae (yes, he counts) have continued a path made golden by Wale, Shy Glizzy, and Logic. Even better: there are a wealth of talented artists that are currently giving us an idea of what’s to come.

In this editorial, JUKEBOX:DC has created a ranked list of albums that we feel have had the greatest impact this year. This isn’t just about sales or stream — an album’s quality and creativeness are among other factors considered. As you’ll see, these are also albums that we’ve shared at the time of their respective releases — if we’ve missed anything, feel free to let us know so that we can be more on point moving forward.

Without further adieu, step into the rabbit hole below.

#20: Travy Nostra – Leave Me The Fuck Alone (READ MORE/STREAM)

What’s immediately striking about this project is the fact that you have an artist that’s been buzzing in the area, yet chooses to keep his subject matter focused on how he’s been dealing with his life mentally. It’s a raw depiction of a person who’s in the midst of his storm, and that emotion plays out in real time. This is an absolute must-listen, period.

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#19: Lil Gray – 10B410 (READ MORE/STREAM)

Representing PG County, MD, Lil Gray (like many of the others you will see) has remained very consistent with non-fiction raps and ever-changing lyricism. One immediate standout from the project is “Pest Control (RAT)” — you’ll know why the minute you press play. Also worth checking out: newer singles like “Get Shit Started” with Big Flock and “Reservoir.”

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#18: P-Wild & Foams SB – Get Lit Or Die (READ MORE/STREAM)

Two members of one of D.C.’s most iconic collectives make a big return with Get Lit Or Die, a project that’s especially notable for their collaboration with longtime producer Basshed E for its title track. Simply put, Slutty Boyz are still very much in effect, and P-Wild and Foams’ collaborative effort is a true continuation of their dynasty.

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#17: Kingpen Slim – Blurred Lines (READ MORE/STREAM)

Let’s just keep it all the way real: nobody in this area (or beyond, in many circumstances) have the ability to out-rap Kingpen Slim. The Uptown, D.C. lyricist has been tearing down beats for the past couple of decades, most recently by way of the project Life After Doubt and Trapper’s Delight. Initially, Blurred Lines was released as an exclusive for those who recently support his craft — those that really appreciate real raps from the city can head here to let Kingpen know.

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#16: Fat Yee – Southeast Gucci (READ MORE/STREAM)

Fat Yee is definitely one of the most prolific rapper from D.C. Case in point: even after blessing the masses with Southeast Gucci, the Barry Farms representative also liberated the well-received projects Life Of Da Dopeman and — just this month — Now Or Never. Extra shout out to Presto Tracks.

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JG Riff – “Weight 4 Me” (Live Performance)

December 25, 2021 JUKEBOXDC Staff Videos No Comments  

Courtesy of AMPD:

Merry Christmas All! To celebrate the Holiday and Us reaching 80K followers, we have a special one for you. Known as the King of DC – JG Riff is debuting the live version of one of his biggest singles this year, “Weight 4 Me”!

Another extremely requested and loved artist from the the DMV – his fans feel like they have grown up with him! Riff has been in his bag this year, dropping 2 projects, singles, features and his most latest release, on Nov. 5 – – “The Rebuild”. Just like his close friend and collaborator “No Savage” who we featured a few weeks back, JG Riff is another voice of the youth right now in the DMV.

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