Need some listening suggestions from Wednesday’s informal holiday? There’s no better time to revisit rap classics that pair well with celebrations of all kinds.
Need some listening suggestions from Wednesday’s informal holiday? There’s no better time to revisit rap classics that pair well with celebrations of all kinds.
This is really the rap album that has it all, and you therefore cannot go wrong listening to it at any time. Universally captivating rhymes on politics and freedom are punctuated by bright, imaginative music that defined all hip-hop music of the 20th century.
This is more like the hazy groove-laden rap that you typically associate with 4/20, but with a nonconformist bent that made Outkast one of the essential alt-rap groups.
For a bit more relaxed vibe for hanging out with friends, Supa Dupa Fly has no shortage of Missy Elliott’s confidence and individuality, making it perfect for a low-key celebration.
Looking for something more like chilling in the club? Too $hort’s debut is not short of 70s funkiness that blends “laid-back” and “party” like no other album.
If you’re looking for thoughtful poignancy in rap lyrics, Kanye West’s earnest debut is perhaps the best, as the rapper who we usually associate with indulgence tells it like it is on The College Dropout.
The Low End Theory is the easy choice for looking into some classic, more agreeable hip-hop to play on a loop in the background. Despite its animated vocals, the record’s jazz inflections make it more soothing than most.
Speaking of soothing, Chance’s mixtape is one of the best of the last decade despite its constant positivity and uplifting nature.
Enjoy! All these albums are currently on streaming, unlike the 4/20 classic The Chronic, which was sadly removed recently by Snoop Dogg.