Special Edition Hip Hop Albums You Need to Get For Record Store Day
Saturday, April 20th is Record Store Day, and if you love vinyl records, you’ve been waiting to see what’s new and what you can add to your collection. Before streams…
Record Store Day is a great opportunity to support local record stores and add to or build your collection with some super cool, exclusive vinyl albums.
Peter Nicholls/Getty ImagesSaturday, April 20th is Record Store Day, and if you love vinyl records, you've been waiting to see what's new and what you can add to your collection.
Before streams and MP3s and compact discs, there were vinyl records. Round vinyl discs housed in 12" square album jackets that were somehow so satisfying to hold in your hands an place on your turntable. These days when a new album comes out you can download the entire thing to your phone. But back in the day, there was a whole ritual of seeking out what you wanted to hear, bringing it home, dropping that needle on your record player, and losing yourself in the music. Music may be cleaner to listen to on a device these days, but the hisses and scratches and pops that would inevitably occur after repeated listens to a vinyl record somehow made the music more real.
What is Record Store Day?
Record Store Day was born in 2007 as a way to celebrate independent record stores and spread the word about the unique culture of collecting and listening to vinyl records. If you're a music lover and of a certain age, like I am, I'm sure you can remember hours spent flipping through the bins in your local record store, looking for that album you've just got to have. For me, it was peaceful. Comforting. It made you feel like you were on a quest to find something that would be life-altering.
Vinyl records have had a resurgence in recent years. It's not just us old heads out there wandering up and down the aisles of the record stores. Younger folks have discovered vinyl and made it cool again, and collectors have added to their collections all of the special edition releases that have been released and the colored vinyl versions of albums they love.
Do Your Part to Support Small Businesses
Record Store Day is about more than the albums themselves. It's also about supporting independent, brick-and-mortar record stores. Years ago, record store chains could be found everywhere. Around Metro Detroit you might remember Harmony House, Musicland or Sound Warehouse. Nationally, stores like Virgin Records, Sam Goody and Camelot Music could be found in malls and shopping centers everywhere. But there was something about the independent record stores that were not only cooler than the sanitized chains, but there was a culture there that everyone was welcomed into.
Now, even though you can find vinyl at your local Walmart, Target or Meijer store, your local record store is still a far cooler spot to explore. And you'll be doing your part to support these small businesses by visiting them and making your vinyl album purchases there. And Metro Detroit has some absolutely fantastic record stores to hit up. Found Sound in Ferndale, Village Vinyl in Sterling Heights, Rock of Ages in Garden City, Third Man Records in Detroit, Flipside Records in Berkley, Weirdsville Records in Mount Clemens and Dearborn Music in Dearborn and Farmington Hills just scratch the surface of the list of record stores in the Detroit area. You can check out a full list of local stores participating in Record Store Day at this link.
You can get your music in an instant these days, but playing a vinyl record on a turntable is still a great experience.
These Aren't Your Dad's Vinyl Records
The days of strictly black vinyl records are long gone. One of the biggest draws of Record Store Day is the colored vinyl releases that come in a rainbow of colors and patterns. Pressing records in different variants has become an art in and of itself. Several of the special Record Store Day release on the list that follows come in some amazing colors, from clear vinyl to splatter prints and more.
Record Store Day exclusives and first-time-on-vinyl releases are always huge sellers. Below, you'll find a list of some of the more notable hip hop releases that will be in your local store on April 20th. Under each release, you'll find a link to learn more about that album.
Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz perform during the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards. Their <em>Welcome 2 Collegrove</em> collaboration will be on vinyl for the first time.
2 Chainz/Lil Wayne - Welcome 2 Collegrove
Released in 2016, this collab will be available on vinyl for then first time as a limited edition, 2 LP set on translucent clear vinyl.
KRS-One led Boogie Down Productions to critical acclaim.
Boogie Down Productions - Edutatainment
This fourth album from BDP was released in 1990 and earned KRS-One and crew a gold record. Available on vinyl for the first time since it's release, this will be a Record Store Day Exclusive double vinyl in opaque black and canary yellow.
Kelvin Mercer and Vincent Mason of De La Soul perform during the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
De La Soul - Live at Tramps, NYC, 1996
Recorded on May 16, 1996, this live album features De La Soul classics and special guest appearances by Mos Def, Common, and The Jungle Brothers. It will be available for the first time on vinyl and on CD as well.
Devin The Dude - Acoustic Levitation
Pontiac, MI born Devin The Dude's 2017 album will be available on vinyl for the first time and it's the perfect album for a 4/20 release. The 2 LP album with gatefold jacket will be pressed on a limited edition translucent green smokey galaxy vinyl.
Fetty Wap performs at Irving Plaza in New York City.
Fetty Wap - Fetty Wap
Fetty's 2016 self-titled debut album has been out of print since it's release. This Record Store Day Exclusive will feature bonus tracks and is pressed on opaque violet vinyl.
Foxy Brown performs onstage at the 2009 VH1 Hip Hop Honors.
Foxy Brown - Ill Na Na
Foxy Brown's debut album will be available for the first time on vinyl since its original 1996 release and will be a 2 LP set pressed on sea blue & white marble vinyl.
Mic Geronimo in New York City in 2017.
Mic Geronimo - The Natural
Nearly thirty years after it's original release, Mic Geronimo’s debut LP is being repressed for the first time since 2012. The album features guest appearances by Lost Boyz, Royal Flush, O.C., Jay-Z, DMX and Ja Rule. It will be pressed on ghostly gold colored vinyl.
Wiz Khalifa performs at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Wiz Khalifa - Loud Pack
This Record Store Day Exclusive is comprised of five 7" singles. It comes in a matte-treated and embossed box and each disc is pressed on a different color, with zoetrope animation silkscreens on 2 of the B-sides.
Lil Uzi Vert performs at the 2024 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
Lil Uzi Vert - Luv Is Rage
Luv Is Rage was the second commercially-sold mixtape from Uzi and features guest spots from Young Thug and Wiz Khalifa. This LP is a Record Store Day Exclusive.
Lil Wayne performs in Chicago, Illinois.
Lil Wayne - Sorry 4 The Wait
This 2011 mixtape is being released for the first time as a 2 LP vinyl set.
Metro Boomin performs onstage during the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards.
Metro Boomin - Metro Boomin Presents Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse Soundtrack - From and Inspired by The Motion Picture
This is super cool for Metro Boomin and/or Spider-Man fans. A limited edition Spider-Man turntable that comes with three 3" records. Each record comes in a Japanese designed flip jacket that includes artwork from the film "Across The Spider-Verse".
Moneybagg Yo attends the BET Awards 2023.
Moneybagg Yo - A Gangsta's Pain
The 4th studio album from Moneybagg Yo, released in 2021, will be available for the first time as a double LP set on translucent ruby vinyl.
Nas performs onstage during Hip Hop 50 Live at Yankee Stadium in New York City.
Nas - Illmatic: Remixes & Rarities
Regarded as one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time, Nas' Illmatic is celebrating it's 30th anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, the album is being released with remixes and rare tracks.
You can rap over the beats from Ready To Die with the Record Store Day Exclusive instrumental version of Notorious B.I.G.'s debut.
Notorious B.I.G. - Ready To Die: The Instrumentals
A couple of years ago, Rolling Stone named Ready To Die the #1 Hip Hop Album of All Time. It was also just announced that the Library of Congress would be including it in the National Recording Registry this year, which is also happens to be Ready To Die's 30th anniversary year. You might own the album, but adding a compilation of the instrumentals would be great for anyone's collection. That way you can freestyle over Biggie & Puff's classic beats yourself.
P.M. Dawn - Jesus Wept
P.M. Dawn's third album hasn't been available on vinyl since it's original release in 1995.
James Bomb, Flavor Flav, and Chuck D of Public Enemy perform onstage during the Pre-GRAMMY Gala in 2024.
Public Enemy - Revolverlution Tour 2003
In 2003, Public Enemy went on tour to celebrate their 15th anniversary as a group. This collection features them performing live in various cities in the U.S. and overseas. The deluxe triple vinyl package includes a fold-out Jacket, OBI side spine and printed inner sleeve. The double CD version has deluxe packaging includes a CD cardboard gatefold jacket, printed inner sleeves and an OBI side spine.
Queen Latifah speaks onstage during the 55th NAACP Image Awards.
Queen Latifah - Nature of a Sistah
The Queen's 1991 second album will be available as a Record Store Day First release.
Royal Flush - Ghetto Millionaire
Royal Flush’s debut LP will be get a Record Store Day exclusive, limited run of 1000 copies on baby blue and black galaxy colored vinyl.
Schoolly D attends the opening night of the MoMA film series in New York City.
Schoolly D - Saturday Night: The Album
The O.G.'s second album gets the reissue treatment in a lemon pepper colored vinyl pressing.
Slum Village - Detroit Deli (A Taste of Detroit)
The legendary Detroit hip hop group's 2004 album will be released on clear vinyl with orange splatter.
Snoop Dogg circa 2001 from the film "Baby Boy".
Various Artists - Murder Was The Case (The Soundtrack)
Snoop Dogg and company are celebrating the 30th anniversary of this banger with a release on red vinyl, with a die cut album cover with red foil.
The Weeknd performs during his “After Hours Til Dawn” tour at SoFi Stadium on November 27, 2022 in Los Angeles.
The Weeknd - Live At SoFi Stadium
The first live album by The Weeknd was recorded during two concerts in Inglewood, CA in November 2022. It's being released now as a 3 LP set.
Doing the Impossible: Ranking All 13 Jay Z Albums
When it comes to the hip-hop industry, few names are as revered as Shawn Corey Carter aka Jay Z. With a discography spanning over two decades, Jay Z's albums have repeatedly pushed boundaries and defined generations, making him one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history.
My friends and I literally consider his music the soundtrack of our lives. The rich variety and depth in his work have left us with an abundant legacy to explore and cherish.
So, for all the hip-hop enthusiasts out there, we're about to embark on a journey, diving deep into Jay Z's discography, dissecting the mastery, and ranking all his albums from the very best to the least impressive (who are we kidding like an unimpressive Jay Z album actually exists.)
Jay Z's journey is nothing short of remarkable. His music has not only entertained but also challenged societal norms, with themes of race, wealth, and success woven into every track.
With over a dozen studio albums under his belt, Jay-Z's discography is a reflection of his evolution as an artist and as a person. Each album tells a different story, each track offering a glimpse into the mind of this living hip-hop legend.
Jay's music has a beautiful way of resonating differently with different people; each album brings a unique flavor to the table, and the 'best' could be different depending on who you ask. But, we're not here to debate, we're here to celebrate the lyrical genius of Jay Z and the profound influence he's had on the culture.
So put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and get ready to enter the world of Mr. Carter. From his groundbreaking debut, "Reasonable Doubt," to his critically acclaimed "4:44," let's dive into the discography of this hip-hop icon and rank his albums.
This is my tribute to Jay Z, a testament to his exceptional contribution to music and culture. Prepare for one well-orchestrated ride. You're welcome.
Reasonable Doubt (1996)
Regarded as Jay Z's magnum opus, this debut album sets the tone for his illustrious career. His lyrical prowess, coupled with hard-hitting beats, makes it a timeless classic. Tracks like "Can't Knock the Hustle" and "Ain't No N***a" showcase Jay's raw talent and storytelling abilities, while collaborations with The Notorious B.I.G. and Mary J. Blige elevate the album to new heights.
The Blueprint (2001)
Considered by many as a masterpiece, this album solidified Jay Z's position as one of the greatest rappers of all time. With standout tracks like "Takeover" and "Renegade," Jay showcases his versatility and flawless flow. The production by legends like Kanye West and Just Blaze adds another layer of greatness to this album.
4:44 (2017)
After a four-year hiatus, Jay Z returned with arguably his most personal and vulnerable album yet. Admitting to infidelity and addressing social issues like police brutality, "4:44" showed a new side of the usually guarded rapper. The production by No I.D. perfectly complements Jay's introspective lyrics, making this album an instant classic.
The Blueprint 3 (2009)
The third installment in "The Blueprint" series, this album showcases Jay Z's growth and continued relevance in the rap game. With hits like "Empire State of Mind" featuring Alicia Keys and "Run This Town" with Rihanna and Kanye West, this album solidified Jay's status as a mainstream superstar
American Gangster (2007)
Inspired by the film of the same name, "American Gangster" sees Jay Z return to his roots and deliver a concept album that tells the story of a drug lord's rise and fall. With soulful instrumentals and cinematic storytelling, this album is often considered one of Jay Z's most underrated works.
The Dynasty: Roc La Familia (2000)
The first album released under Jay Z's own label, Roc-A-Fella Records, "The Dynasty" showcases the talents of not just Jay but also his proteges. With contributions from artists like Beanie Sigel and Memphis Bleek, this album is a testament to Jay Z's leadership and ability to elevate others.
Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life (1998)
Jay Z's breakthrough album, "Vol. 2" catapulted him to mainstream success and solidified his place in hip-hop history. With hits like "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)" and "Can I Get A...", this album became the soundtrack of an entire generation.
The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse (2002)
Often referred to as a double album, "The Blueprint 2" is a mixed bag of experimental tracks and commercial hits. While it has some standout songs like "Song Cry" and "Excuse Me Miss," the overall lack of cohesiveness brings down its ranking.
The Black Album (2003)
Announced as his 'final album' at that time, The Black Album showcases Jay Z at his most triumphant and introspective. With its masterful production and thought-provoking lyrics, it is a testament to Jay Z's artistic prowess. Standout tracks like "99 Problems" and "Dirt off Your Shoulder" resonate with listeners, further solidifying Jay Z's impact on the music industry. The Black Album is a timeless piece of art that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter (1999)
Although it may not receive as much acclaim as some of his other albums, it is a solid entry in Jay-Z's discography. This album features notable hits like "Big Pimpin'", showcasing Jay-Z's lyrical prowess and unique style.
In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 (1997)
While it's often overshadowed by his other works, this album showcases Jay Z's potential early in his career. With its introspective lyrics, skillful storytelling, and innovative production, it serves as a glimpse into the artist's artistic evolution and sets the stage for the groundbreaking albums that would follow. From the infectious beats of "The City Is Mine" to the introspective musings of "You Must Love Me," Jay Z's sophomore effort is a testament to his growth as an artist and a milestone in the hip-hop genre.
Kingdom Come (2006)
This highly anticipated album marked Jay-Z's triumphant return to the music scene after a brief retirement. While it received mixed reviews from critics, Kingdom Come showcased Jay-Z's undeniable talent and versatility as an artist. The album featured standout tracks like "Lost One," a powerful and introspective song that resonated with fans worldwide. With its thought-provoking lyrics and polished production, Kingdom Come solidified Jay-Z's status as a legendary figure in the hip-hop industry.
Magna Carta... Holy Grail (2013)
Jay-Z's "Magna Carta... Holy Grail" was an ambitious project that aimed to deliver greatness. Despite its grand visions and innovative production, some critics felt that it fell slightly short in terms of lyrical depth when compared to Jay-Z's previous albums. However, it still showcased his unique style and ability to captivate audiences with his distinct flow and clever wordplay. It also included some of his most popular hits, including the smash single "Holy Grail," which featured Justin Timberlake. The album was well-received and earned Jay-Z nine Grammy Award nominations. Despite the mixed reviews, it remains a classic in hip-hop history and is still a mainstay in many people's music libraries.
