10.
Childish Gambino:

A big year for Donald Glover or musically known as Childish Gambino, the Atlanta artist released his first album in four years, which also served as the soundtrack to a self-directed film that has yet to be released. In addition to the album, he also dropped a small handful of features that showcased his versatility as an artist.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “Because the Internet”

Listen: Childish Gambino

9.
Boldy James:

Boldy James is one of the hardest working rappers out, dropping three albums this year that were all high quality. He continues to find new ways to discuss his stories in the street, all with a deadpan flow that could be listened to for hours on end.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “The Price of Tea in China”

Listen: Boldy James

8.
Clairo:

Clairo is an American singer-songwriter who has remained true to her artistry throughout her career. Each of her albums have a distinct flair, and the 2024 release of “Charm” continues this streak.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “Charm”

Listen: Clairo

7.
Doechii:

A breakout year for the Swamp Princess, Doechii made waves with her Grammy-nominated project “Alligator Bites Never Heal.” She also contributed many solid features, one of which appeared on Tyler, The Creator’s penultimate track “Balloon.” Doechii is an artist to continue to keep your eye on in the years to come.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “Alligator Bites Never Heal”

Listen: Doechii

6.
Future:

Future’s musical output is unprecedented, dropping three #1 albums this year, two of which dropped in back to back weeks. With Metro Boomin behind the beats for the majority of his released tracks this year, his presence sounds commanding as ever.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “DS2”

Listen: Future

5.
Beyoncé:

The Queen returns again. After her last house-inspired album “Renaissance,” Beyoncé pivots to Americana and country music with her latest release “COWBOY CARTER.” Breaking barriers on every release, this project is no different as the one-of-a-kind artist reinvents herself at the highest level.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “Beyoncé”

Listen: Beyoncé

4.
KA:

The rapper, producer, and firefighter captain from Brownsville, Brooklyn, KA was a prolific artist who self-released eleven remarkable albums throughout his career. This year he released another mind-bending album with “The Thief Next to Jesus,” detailing themes of Christianity and its effect on the Black identity and modern culture. Unfortunately, KA passed away unexpectedly in October, leaving an extraordinary legacy that will never be forgotten. Thank you KA, for sharing your wonderful artistry with the world and for encouraging us all to be the best versions of ourselves. Rest in peace.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album "Descendants of Cain"

Listen: KA

3.
Mustafa:

The Toronto singer-songwriter dropped his long awaited debut LP in 2024, titled “Dunya.” The album is heart wrenching, as he places his harrowing upbringing and grief on full display. His lyrics are genuine and poetic, filling a unique space that spans genres from soul to alternative.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “Dunya”

Listen: Mustafa

2.
Charli xcx:

In the biggest year of her career, Charli xcx broke out with “brat,” a phenomenal album that took mainstream media into a frenzy that developed a life of its own. In addition to the unstoppable brat summer trend, she racked in seven Grammy nominations for “brat,” and both hosted and performed on SNL. Charli xcx is now a household name, which is well-deserved considering the number of years she has been releasing music.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album "BRAT"

Listen: Charli xcx

1.
Kendrick Lamar:

2024 was victory lap after victory lap for Kendrick Lamar. From battling and unanimously winning the biggest rap beef in the modern era against Drake, K. Dot continued his red hot streak with a Super Bowl performance announcement and the unexpected release of a new album, “GNX.” Throughout all of the chaos, Kendrick Lamar remained true to his roots, doubling down on his craft, his city, and himself.

If You're New to this Artist:
Listen to the album “Good Kid, m.A.A.d City”

Listen: Kendrick Lamar

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