This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at USFSP chapter.
At the end of the day – after I have juggled classwork, meetings and events – I crawl into my bed and jam to The Score, my all-time favorite rap album by the Fugees. It gives me energy for the next day and lets me know that I am not the only one who is working hard on a daily basis. Rap music is commonly inspired by struggles, so almost anyone can relate to it. Below is a list of the rap albums that are noted for their positivity, spiritedness, and vigor.
#1 The Score by the Fugees
I mean, come on, you know I had to include it! The Score is packed with vibrant noise of voices chanting social justice rhymes. Lauryn Hill steals the moment away from her crew and makes it her own in songs like “Ready or Not” and “Family Business.”
#2 Late Registration by Kanye West
Ah, Late Registration. To anyone who says Mr. West doesn’t have a heart, I play them this. In “Heard ‘Em Say,” he raps the lines, “Claimin’ money is the key so keep on dreamin’/And put them lottery tickets just to tease us/My aunt Pam can’t put those cigarettes down/Now my lil cousin smokin those cigarettes now” (25-28), addressing the social issues of poverty and inheriting problems from previous generations. The entire album is crafted with care and precision, balancing addictive beats with real world issues.
#3 To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar
Not a legend quite yet, but perhaps one in the making. Lamar is frequently praised for his work in this album because of his references to life experiences and the way he presents the lessons they taught him. One of the most touching songs on the album is “You Ain’t Gotta Lie (Momma Said),” in which he discusses the conflicting concepts of conforming to society and being true to yourself.
#4 Distant Relatives by Nas & Damien Marley
This album is a celebration of the rap game in itself, recognizing the unifying aspect of the music among communities everywhere. With songs like “My Generation” and “Africa Must Wake Up,” Nas and Damien motivate the youth to be all that they can be. It is one of my favorites because it is so unique in its presentation: No guns, no drugs, no money in the lyrics… Just peace.
#5 The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill
Oh yes, that’s my girl – The wonderful, the incredible, the lovely Lauryn Hill. Her one and only solo rap album was a huge success, and anyone who is willing to get three songs deep will understand why. She takes her method very seriously and maneuvers a delicate blend of harmonies and lessons to be learned into this fine one-hour-and-seventeen-minute-long piece of perfection.
HC XOXO,
Megan Hammer
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