5. Solange A Seat at the Table
The moment “Rise” plays at the start of A Seat at the Table it is evident that Solange is delivering something that is much-needed in these times. Even the way she peers at the listener on the album art demonstrates a no-nonsense attitude. A Seat at the Table is an exercise in civil disobedience by way of music. It’s revolutionary music delivered via the voice of a hummingbird. Solange dropped the album by surprise and it immediately took the internet by storm. Her visuals for her songs were just as arresting as her music. The addition of Master P in the interludes is unexpected but fits perfectly in the context of the release. Each interlude is a shot in the arm. “Cranes In The Sky” is the standout song. It plays like an anthem to those looking to lift themselves to the sky.
4. Schoolboy Q Blankface
Blankface is easily one of the best rap projects to come out in the past few years. I think the audacity of this album is what makes it so special. Schoolboy Q is a masterful rapper and is able to convey motion through the most deliberate curses. Every verse and beat feels deliberate, purposeful and feels like the West Coast. “Groovy Tony/Eddie Kane” featuring Jada Kiss is just tough! Q paints a picture of criminal activity that almost seems titillating, and then Jada Kiss comes on with one of the most memorable verses of the year. The standout song from Blankface is “Neva Change” feat. his TDE family SZA. “Your inner n—- and aging reason the ‘hood stays shady.”
3. Common Black America Again
Common is an A-list celebrity now, so the thought of him coming out with another album seemed to be wishful thinking. Then just when you thought all was lost, Common drops one of the most important projects of the year with Black America Again. Common does not shy away from the current climate in today’s America and returns to his roots with dexterous rhymes and flows with messages to penetrate the soul. Common manages to maintain the message even as he laces the project with a few songs dedicated to the ladies, à la “Love Star” and “Red Wine.” When the listener gets to “Pyramids” it’s clear why Common is recognized as one of the best in his craft. Black America Again resonates with the pain of the people and the hope of the world.
2. Childish Gambino Awaken, My Love!
If there was ever a time I was blindsided by an album this is it. Childish Gambino, aka Donald Glover, drummed up a lot of buzz for his release Awaken, My Love! and when it dropped I’m sure everybody’s mind was blown. I was immediately transported to the ’70s with the best funk and soul albums serving as my backdrop, and Childish Gambino made it. Gambino is fearless on this project. He sings with confidence and the music serves as the vibe. The standout track on Awaken My Love! is “Baby Boy” it’s a Prince-inspired selection and Gambino is going in with the vocals.
1. A Tribe Called Quest We Got It from Here … Thank You 4 Your Service
Tribe shook the world this year. The death of Phife left a void in hip-hop. So the moment Q-Tip announced that a new Tribe album was coming with new Phife verses, the hip-hop universe screamed with elation. For all intents and purposes Tribe broke up almost 18 years ago. Childhood friends Q-Tip and Malik had differences. Over the years they repaired their differences and created an amazing piece of work for the world before Phife made his transition. It’s the best release of 2016 for those reasons alone. The standout track is “Space Program.” Phife says we got to get it together. Let’s do that.
