There is nothing like those summer jams! Music and summer are pretty much like peanut butter and jelly— they go perfectly together, especially when you have your windows rolled down, sunglasses on, the bass booming, and you're singing your heart out on a hot summer day. Every summer some of the best music is released from our favorite artists and this summer is a big one for hip hop music with the release of new albums from Jay-Z, Wale, J.Cole, and Kanye West. Expect classics from your favorite rappers! Here is a quick review on these four records, so you can either choose one wisely or buy them all like I did! All of these albums have a special twist and story. So support the arts and good music!
[quote]”Feel good music makes you fall in love with life all over again”- Unknown[/quote]
1. J. Cole's Born Sinner
J. Cole released his album Born Sinner on June 25th, 2013 the same day as Kanye West's Yeezus. J.Cole may be a new rapper to many people, but this album will get you familiar with him soon. I respect the fact that he was bold enough to release his album on the same day as one of the world’s greatest rappers. Born Sinner is an amazing album filled with stories that young men and women can relate to. I would label this album his “come up.” We get to know J. Cole and really understand his style of rapping and who he is as an artist. This album has some hit singles like “Power Trip,” featuring Miguel and many more. J.Cole has also gained many fans from his “Dollar and A Dream” tour, where he only charged his fans $1.00 for a full concert, which also included special guests. Twitter was raging over this concert, some even described it as “life changing.”
2. Wale's The Gifted
Wale also took a walk on the wild side along with J.Cole when he decided to release his album The Gifted a week after the release of Yeezus. The streets were not talking nearly as much as they were about J.Cole and Kanye West, but I personally love the album. The album has a pop/rap feel, with the poetic twist that Wale never fails to deliver.
3. Kanye West's Yeezus
One word to describe this Kanye West's album Yeezus: experience! I honestly don’t believe anyone can relate to or understand this record in one listen. When I reviewed this album I felt as though visuals should go along with it and thought I was listening to a movie. It was somewhat of a journey and I really enjoyed it. I would love for people to give it a chance and don’t put it away after your first listen, because it is a classic. Kanye West is and will always be a true global artist in all aspects. The song titled “I Am God” got more attention than the actual album. To find out what this all really means, you should check out this record.
4. Jay-Z's Magna Carta Grail
Last but not least, Jay-Z has took music to another level with Samsung this summer. Jay-Z has paired up with Samsung with the release of the Samsung Galaxy and his album Magna Carta Grail. The album already went platinum before it even dropped. Although the album will not be qualified for the billboard charts, it's still pretty cool. This album will be released on July 4th 2013.
