2018 Hip-Hop Album Releases: The Ultimate Guide

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You might not have loved some the emerging musical trends, but it can’t be denied that 2017 was an excellent year for hip-hop music. Many high prile artists released new projects, including Migos, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, 2 Chainz, Future (x2), Gucci Mane (x3) and many more. For a more in depth look at some the year’s strongest releases, check our recap list below.

And while some the game’s biggest names will no doubt be taking the year f, there are plenty drops to look forward to. While many remain in the infamous land “TBD,” it stands to reason that each the following projects will be contending for our 2018 year-end list, when the time comes. Remember, while many these projects are projected for a 2018 release, there are few with any concrete dates. For now, take solace in the fact that “coming soon” always changes. With such an extensive list, omissions are inevitable. If so, feel free to sound f the in comments section so we can properly maintain this lethan.

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JANUARY

Maxo Kream – Punken

When: January 12th

Kream has already shared the album’s producers, which include The Wlderness, Beatboy, Sonny Digital, Ethereal, Honorable C Note, $uicideboy$, Tommy Kruise, Wolfe De Mchls, Teddy Walton, and MexikoDro. You can also check out the tracklist right here.

Dave East – Paranoia 2

When: January 16th

Dave East’s Paranoia tape was undeniably slept on, and one can only hope that it expands on the first chapter. Side note, why is every album a sequel these days? Either way, Dave East’s Paranoia 2 has already landed an album cover, which you can check out over on East’s Instagram.

Berner – The Big Pescado

When: January 16th

Taylor Gang’s Berner will be dropping The Big Pescado shortly, and fans can look forward to appearances from The Game, Snoop Dogg, Pusha T, Devin The Dude, Conway, Fresh, Ty Dolla $, E-40, Too Short, Teefli, Wiz Khalifa, Trey Songz, Shy Glizzy, & Jeremih. Plus, the project will be produced in full by the comeback kid slash piano murderer Scott Storch.

Migos – Culture 2

When: January 26th 

In late November, Migos’ highly anticipated Culture 2 was aiming for a January release, according to Quality Control’s Coach K and Pee. According to a New York Times feature on the record label, “Migos’s ‘Culture 2,’ featuring the single “MotorSport,” is due out in January.” However, the article also alludes to Yachty’s Lil Boat 2 dropping in December, and we know that’s been pushed back. Therefore, it stands to reason that Migos’ release date will also shift, though it  wouldn’t be surprising to seem them land a Q1 date.

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FEBRUARY

Justin Timberlake – Man Of The Woods

When: February 2nd

Justin Timberlake recently announced his upcoming album Man Of The Woods, which he described as being his most personal work to date. “This album is really inspired by my son, my wife, my family, but more so than any other album I’ve ever written, where I’m from,” says Justin, in the initial announcement. We already know that JT will be reuniting with Timbaland and Danja, as well as Pharell Williams – suffice it to say, the former N’Sync singer is in capable hands.

Brian (Rich Chigga) – Amen

When: February 2nd

The “Dat Stick” rapper has actually blossomed into a talented artist, and has been steadily releasing singles like “Glow Like Dat” and “See Me.” While Brian announced the release date and album cover, he has yet to reveal a tracklist. Either way, he’s been a pleasant surprise thus far, so it should be interesting to see where Brian goes with his debut. It’s unclear, but the project may include the aforementioned singles, as well as the 21 Savage assisted “Crisis.”

Various Artists – Black Panther: The Album

When: February 9th

While we have yet to recieve a tracklist for this inevitably lit soundtrack, we do have one bit promising news. The soundtrack for Marvel’s anticipated Black Panther will be curated by TDE and Kendrick Lamar, who makes an appearances on the SZA assisted lead single “All The Stars.” Expect plenty big names on this one.

Tyga – Kyoto

When: February 16th

Tyga’s new project will be dropping on February 16th, and is currently available for pre-order. Kyoto is reported to feature the singles “Temperature” and “Boss Up.”

Nipsey HussleVictory Lap

When: February 16th

Nipsey Hussle’s Victory Lap will finally be upon us, with sixteen tracks and the lead f single “Rap N***as,” which you can check out here. The project will drop with Atlantic Records, and many are eagerly awaiting the first West Coast banger 2018.

Tekashi 6ix9ine – DAY69

When: February 23rd

The controversial rainbow-haired rapper is set to drop f his debut album, and will feature breakout singles “GUMMO” and “KOODA.” Look for features from Offset, Tory Lanez, Young Thug, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and Fetty Wap.

Nessly – Wildflower

When: February 28th

Nessly is poised to stake his claim with Wildflower, which is being executive produced by the combined talents TM88 & TakeADaytrip. Features include Ski Mask The Slump God, HoodRich Pablo Juan, Joji, and 24HRS, but this thirteen track project looks to be largely a solitary affair. 

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MARCH

Tech N9ne – Planet

When: March 2nd

Tech N9ne has announced his twentieth studio album Planet, which is set to feature appearances from longtime collaborator Krizz Kaliko, Darrien Safron, Mackenzie Nicole and Joey Cool. The album will include the previously released singles “Tech N9ne (Don’t Nobody Want None),” “Levitation” and “We Won’t Go Quietly.”

Mozzy – Spiritual Conversations EP

When: March 2nd

The recently lean-free rapper has been having an amazing run. After receiving a televised shout-out by Kendrick Lamar at the Grammy Awards, the West Coast rapper secured a spot on the best-selling Black Panther album. He recently announced an upcoming EP called Spiritual Conversations, which will be followed by a full-length album called Gangland Landlord. We don’t have a date for that one…yet.

Tory Lanez – Memories Don’t Die

When: March 2nd

The date has ficially been set. Tory’s upcoming project is set to feature Future, 50 Cent, Nav, Fabolous, Wiz Khalifa and more. Previously released singles “Real Things,” “Shooters,” “Skrt Skrt,” and “B.I.D” are all set to appear. 

Lil Yachty – Lil Boat 2

When: March 9th

The king the youth recently announced his anticipated sequel will be dropping on March 9th.  He previously teased January, but warned fans he would be taking his time, as he didn’t want us to rush anything. “I just want it to be good,” he said. “I don’t wanna put out no bullshit. I don’t want to put it out and y’all hate it.” Except the QC rapper to be looking for a bounce-back after Teenage Emotions caught mixed reviews.

YFN Lucci – Ray Ray From Summer Hill

March: March 9th

Lucci’s new album is imminent. We’re not sure if the Offset assisted “Boss Life” or the Meek Mill collaboration “Street Kings” will be present and accounted for, but anything is possible. Lucci is ficially looking to make a splash this year, so expect some fire from the Atlanta native.

Logic – Bobby Tarantino II

March: March 9th

Logic surprised fans with the announcement his upcoming mixtape Bobby Tarantino II. With an actual co-sign from Rick & Morty, Logic’s anticipated sequel promises a return to “mixtape Logic.” As Rick Sanchez so eloquently put it, expect “some fucking titties and throwing stacks on some ass!”

Rich Homie Quan – Rich As In Spirit

When: March 16th

Rich Homie Quan made his triumphant return with Rich As In Spirit. When asked about his album title, Rich explained the personal origin story Rap-Up: “I had a cellmate] by the name Chicken. He was like, ‘I see your name is Rich Homie. What it stand for?’ I didn’t have a meaning, but the first thing he said was, ‘Rich as in spirit.’ It hit my spirit. I felt it, opposed to heard it. I didn’t hear it. I felt it…It stuck with me. I had to name my first album that.”

Royce Da 5’9” & DJ Premier – PRhyme 2

When: March 16th

With The Book Of Ryan on the horizon, Royce is looking to drop f another round Premier-laced bangers in PRhyme 2. In November 2017, Royce confirmed the project was ficially done, and while he remained coy about the features, the Detroit rapper was previously spotted in the studio with J. Cole.  Plus, take this with a grain salt, but Royce previously reached out to Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and The Game on Twitter, inviting them to lyrically spar on the record.

XXXTentacion – ?

When: March 16th

XXXTentacion’s first three reported new albums is ?, which will feature the singles “Sad” and “Changes,” as well as fan-favorite “Moonlight.” The project will feature appearances from Joey Bada$$, Matt Ox, Travis Barker, and PnB Rock. 

Don Q – Don Talk

When: March 23rd

Don Q’s upcoming Don Talk is all set to drop, and will feature the recently released “Trap Phone,” featuring Desiigner. Pusha T & Tee Grizzley are also set to make appearances. Murda Beatz, Da Honorable C. Note, Ness, Nick Papz, Rell Ruger, and more are slated to handle production on the nine track tape.  

Rich The Kid – The World Is Yours

When: March 30th

Rich The Kid has ficially confirmed a late March release for his upcoming debut album. The project is set to feature Kendrick Lamar, Lil Wayne, Khalid, Jay Critch, Pusha T, Jeezy and more. Look for singles “New Freezer” and “Plug Walk” to make an appearance. 

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APRIL

Cardi B – Invasion Of Privacy

When: April 6th

Cardi B’s massive 2017 propelled her into one 2018’s most curious cases. Now, the world is watching, eager to see what she’s cooking up. After dropping “Bodak Yellow” and “Bartier Cardi,” the former stripper has already proven to be deadly on the mic. Now, all she has to do is keep the fire coming. Last she spoke on it, Cardi told The Breakfast Club she was seven or eight songs deep, but seemed intent on doing it right. There’s no word on any release date, but expect Atlantic to take their time with the rollout. A recent update from Cardi confirms that the album will be released on April 6th.

Flatbush Zombies – Vacation In Hell

When: April 6th

It might seem far away, but the new project from Flatbush Zombies is likely to emerge as one the year’s sleeper hits. Meechy Darko, Erick Arc Elliott and Zombie Juice have already hit us with the project’s first ficial single “Headstone. If you didn’t already know, it’s fire. Check that out while you wait. 

Lil Xan – Total Xanarchy

When: April 6th

Lil Xan aka Diego will be hitting us with his debut album on April 6th. The young rapper already confirmed some big names on the project, including 2 Chainz, YG, Rae Sremmurd, Chali XCX, and Diplo. He told Hot 97 a bit about the project, stating “”This album is where I feel like I shine with the whole creativity…It’s a lot stuff people haven’t heard. It’s a very mature sound. I don’t think they’re going to expect it.”

Carnage – Battered Bruised & Bloody

When: April 13th

Carnage’s anticipated sophomore project comes on the heels a collaborative album with Young Thug and a banger with Mac Miller and MadeInTYO. In fact, the Mac and TYO assisted “Learn How To Watch” is set to appear on the project, as is the Lil Pump assisted “i Shyne.” Check out the project’s appropriately intense cover art right here. 

J. Cole – K.O.D.

When: April 20th

J. Cole shocked the world when he announced the arrival  K.O.D, which is set to drop on the widely celebrated Stoner’s holiday. Appropriately enough, drugs seem to be one the project’s dominant themes, with suggestive cover art and an acronym allegedly standing for “King Overdose,” “Kidz On Drugz” and “Kill Our Demonz.” It’s crazy to think how J. Cole has quietly solidified himself as one hip-hop’s true superstars, while still maintaining a genuine sense underground mystique. 

Smoke DZA – Not For Sale

When: April 20th

The first confirmed 4/20 release comes from Smoke DZA, who has ficially announced his upcoming album Not For Sale. Be sure to check out the album cover  Instagram. The first single, “The Mood” features Joey Bada$$ – stream that  here. 

Post Malone – Beerbongs & Bentleys

When: April 27th

Post Malone’s upcoming album has been “coming soon” for what feels like eternity, but with lead single “Rockstar” still continuing to dominate the charts, it’s no wonder they aren’t rushing it. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Posty drop this summer, but you never know. We’ll keep you posted on this one. Confirmed features are set to include Ty Dolla $ign, Nicki Minaj, and John Mayer. Posty recently confirmed the date during his Bud Light Dive Bar show in Nashville.

YoungBoy Never Broke Again – Until Death Call My Name

When: April 27th

While YoungBoy’s moniker promotes an optimistic message fiscal success, his album title is decidedly less cheerful. When asked about the title’s foreboding implication, YoungBoy responded with an introspective and hopeful take. “I just want to strive to be the best man I can be,” he said. “I want to spend as much time with my children and family as I can. I want to keep working on all this music every day. I just want to go as hard as I can until death calls my name.” 

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MAY

Royce Da 5’9” – Book Of Ryan

When: May 4th

Royce Da 5’9” originally planned on dropping Layers follow-up The Book Of Ryan much earlier, but he opted to delay the release for reasons undisclosed. Back in March 2016, he revealed the project was “basically done,” and claimed it would be even more personal than Layers; for an album containing the autobiographical “Tabernacle,” that’s saying something. Now, Royce has led f the album with the J Cole assisted “Boblo Boat,” confirming that the project is set to drop on May 4th.

Styles P – G-Host

When: May 4th

Styles P, The Ghost, aka Holiday Styles, aka Pinero is back with his new album G-Host. Fans the Lox legend should expect nothing less than “raw unapologetic hip-hop that is bound to hit you in the gut make your head nod hard and your face scrunch up.”

Tee Grizzley – Activated

When: May 11

Tee Grizzley has confirmed that his new studio album is set to drop on May 11, and will likely feature the single “Don’t Even Trip” with Moneybagg Yo. While features have yet to be confirmed, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Bloodas collaborator Lil Durk pop up in some capacity. 

Pusha T – King Push

When: May 25th

The date has ficially been confirmed by Kanye West himself, who is also set to produce the entire project. If that isn’t enough reason to get hyped, Pusha has already proclaimed it to be the “album 2018.” Pusha also promises “Heavy raps, production by Kanye West from top to bottom.. He will pick all my beats. I’ll rap to all the beats, song’s done. Then, he will listen to it and say, “Hey, I can do all these beats better.”

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JUNE

Kanye West – Untitled

When: June 1st

We don’t have a name, but we ficially have a date. We’ve known he was hard at work in the mountains Wyoming, and has been rumored to be collaborating with Migos, Kid Cudi, and Plain Pat. Mike Dean has also been a confirmed contributor, though it’s unclear whether he’s producing, engineering, or both. Either way, Kanye releases are always special, and the man has yet to fail us yet. Mark this down as one our most anticipated, and check out everything we know about the project here.

Kids See Ghost (Kanye West & Kid Cudi) – Kids See Ghost 

When: June 8th

It’s ficial. Not much to say here, other than hell yes.

Nas – Untitled

When: June 15th

Another one confirmed by the ever-generous Yeezy. The idea a Nas album produced entirely by Kanye West should be enough to cause hype. Who knows, are we about to hear one Nas’ best albums to date? 

Teyana Taylor – Untitled

When: June 22nd

The G.O.O.D Music songstress will be dropping at the end June, as confirmed by label head Kanye West. Stay tuned for more details.

Drake – Scorpion

Drake has been busy working on his More Life follow-up for a minute, spending all nighters in the studio with 40, linking up with Murda Beatz, Pi’erre Bourne and more. There’s all kinds directions the Six God might go, but no matter where he goes, his music will be eagerly devoured by his legion loyal Stans. The six God recently shared the album title, Scorpion, as well as the singles “God’s Plan” and “Nice For What.” Check out everything we know about the project here.

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JULY

Wiz Khalifa – Rolling Papers II

When: July 13

On 4/20, Wiz Khalifa MMA kicked his way out a smoke cloud to announce the ficial release date for Rolling Papers. July 13 is the fateful day, so be sure to call up the plug in accordance. As now, there’s much we don’t know about the project. Keep a watchful eye out for details as they emerge.

THE TBD ZONE

2 Chainz – Rap Or Go To The League

The prolific Tity Boi took to All-Star Weekend to announce his Pretty Girls Like Trap Music follow-up. What to expect? In the ficial statement, 2 Chainz broke it down: “with the height racial tensions across America I felt I should do my part in explaining some the brain washing formulas used in my community , this album not only touches on those who did succeed thru entertainment but those who didn’t!” 

Anderson Paak – Untitled

No date yet, but Paak has previously teased heavy involvement from Aftermath boss Dr. Dre. Paak said the legendary Doctor “had a heavy role in this new album that’s almost done as well. Just going through the mixing phase. I won’t say any dates but you can definitely expect it this year, sometime.”

A$AP Rocky – Untitled

A$AP Rocky has been teasing his triumphant return to the solo album game for a minute now. Recently, Flacko previewed a new song called “Gang,” which seems likely to appear on the yet-untitled project. In an interview with GQ, Rocky opened up about the sonic direction, stating “”My new album is really about testing new sounds. People are scared to test new sounds…. I prefer to experiment and have my crowd grow with me and to reach new crowds. I don’t just rap—I actually make music.”  It wouldn’t be surprising to see A$AP Rocky following in the footsteps his homeboy Tyler, The Creator, opting for a more experimental, melodic project.

Brockhampton – Puppy

After rumors  Saturation 3 being their “final studio album,” self-styled boy band Brockhampton cleared the air with the announcement their upcoming Puppyslated for a 2018 release. Note – the previously announced Team Effort was pushed back to 2019. 

Curren$y – Back At Burnie’s

Curren$y recently announced the album artwork and release date for his upcoming album, Back At Burnie’s. A sequel to his popular 2011 album Weekend At Burnie’s, this new project will once again reunite Spitta with MonstaBeatz, who will be handling production across the board.

Cypress Hill – Elephants On Acid

B-Real, Sen Dog, and DJ Muggs are back with another hit from the bong. The legendary group recently confirmed their upcoming album Elephants On Acid was finished, and ready for a 2018 release. Check out the album cover right here.

Danny Brown – Untitled

We don’t know much about this album, other than this tantalizing teaser, in which he claimed the project is“being produced by one producer, who’s legendary in hip-hop. And it’s gonna be a big deal.” Fans immediately began speculating, and some the most popular guesses were El-P, Madlib, or Flying Lotus. Consider this one the year’s biggest question marks.

Denzel Curry – Taboo

The aquarius killa has been hard at work on the follow up to his last full length project, Imperial. While Denzel has been pretty secretive about Taboo, there are rumors a Flying Lotus collaboration. Last we heard, Denzel needed to finish three songs, and was taking his time putting on the finishing touches. Expect this one sooner than later.

Desiigner – Life Of Desiigner / New English 2

While Desiigner’s Life Of Desiigner has been plagued with frequent push-backs, it appears the young rapper is gearing up for a massive run in 2018. Remember, Desiigner’s entourage is basically made up perfectionists, including Kanye West and Pusha T, who know a thing or two about delayed albums. The young rapper revealed a little bit about the process, stating I set it up like a movie, it’s like your favorite movie. Wait for it! LOD going to be crazy…Ye put his input, Pusha T sat down, put his input call you all night if he feels there’s a switch, it gets crazy, heck yeah.” After LOD, Desiigner has also promised the release New English 2. 

DJ Khaled – Father Of Asahd

The lovable mogul recently announced the title his upcoming eleventh studio album, and more importantly dropped f the project’s first single. “Top Off” featured appearances from Jay-Z, Beyonce (spitting bars) and Future. It’s Khaled, so expect plenty big name features and massive collaborations. 

Earl Sweatshirt – Untitled

“Don’t think I wasn’t at work,” tweeted Earl Sweatshirt, prompting many to believe he would be coming up with a follow-up to 2015’s I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside. His world-weary bars and jaded cynicism would certainly be welcome at this point, and while we know next to nothing about this project, Earl has performed a few loosies throughout 2017, including “Hat Trick.” There’s not much to say about this one, other than we’re here for it.

EarthGang – Mirror Land

Doctur Dot and Johnny Venus are two Atlanta’s strongest lyricist, and their talent with the pen caught the attention J Cole. Now, the duo are signed to Dreamville, and have already put out two parts an EP trilogy; with “Rags” and “Robots” already released, all that’s left is “Royalty.” After that comes Mirrorland, the Gang’s first full length project on J Cole’s label. If you’re a fan solid lyricism and southern charm, this is one to watch for – EarthGang have already drawn comparisons to OutKast, and they’re only getting better with time.

Freddie Gibbs & Madlib – Bandana

Last year, Freddie Gibbs dropped f the underrated You Only Live 2wice, and while fans appreciated the project, some were nostalgic for the Madlib-laced vibes Pinata. Those fans will be pleased to know that Gibbs and Madlib are once again joining forces on Bandana. Back in November, Gibbs teased that the album was “almost done. I think we’re back in the mixing process right now, but it’s definitely coming soon. I can’t tell y’all when we’re ‘gon drop it, but we’re just gon’ hit y’all out the blue.”

Gucci Mane – The Evil Genius

It’s hard to imagine Gucci Mane topping his 2017 campaign, with three studio albums (including the highlight DropTopWop), but he seems intent on trying. The Atlanta legend wasted little time in announcing The Evil Genius, and while he has yet to share a release date, Gucci has never been one to draw things out. Expect this one sooner rather than later.

Jaden Smith – ERYS

Jaden Smith has already confirmed plans to drop a SYRE follow-up in 2018, titled ERYS. While little is known at this point, he has teased a more rap-centered focus this time around. Stay tuned for more news as it develops.

Jay Rock – Untitled

Another TDE emcee seems poised to drop in2018, and fans are still clamoring for details on Jay Rock’s “90059.” Engineer extraordinaire MixedByAli has been hard at work on Jay Rock’s project, saying it’s “coming soon,” and while details are lacking, there have been snippets a Tee Grizzley collaboration. Suffice it to say, releases from ScHoolboy Q & Jay Rock should help solidify TDE another excellent year.

Ty Dolla $ign & Jeremih – MihTy

As one the first collaboative projects the year, Ty Dolla $ign & Jeremih’s MihTy will be executive produced by A1 & Hitmaka, who confirmed an All Star Weekend release. During a call to Joe Budden’s podcast, Hitmaka also confirmed features from Chris Brown and PartyNextDoor, as well as some solo cuts from each artist as well.

Lil Durk – Signed To The Streets 3

The Chicago rapper recently announced his new mixtape will be dropping in 2018, though it’s unclear as to when. The project seems likely to feature a remix Logic’s popular 1-800-273-8255.

Lil Yachty / Lil Pump – Untitled Mixtape

Old heads beware. Lil Boat and Lil Pump are picking up where “Back” left f, and releasing an entire mixtape together. Yachty previewed a track called “Baby Daddy” on his Twitch stream, which featured bars like “Tell your baby daddy, I’m richer, bitch I don’t want to sip liquor.” From the sound it, Yachty seems really excited about this one, and if you want to catch that snippet you can check it out here. Suffice it to say, this will one certainly turn some heads when it drops.

Lil Yachty / Takef – Untitled Mixtape

Last we heard, the Lil Yachty and Takef tape is still in development. Apparently, Boat is still waiting for Takef’s busy schedule to allow him some time to finish up the verses. While doing an interview with Ebro, he spoke a little about the project. “Every time we’re together, it’s plot, bro. Our shit’s about to be fire. I’m excited for the world to hear Takef on his own

Nicki Minaj – Untitled

While Nicki Minaj has yet to fer any real information about her upcoming Pinkprint follow-up, she previously described the project as being about her life “coming full circle.” One thing we do know is that it’s indeed coming, and Nicki has been killing it on the guest verse tip for a minute now. All signs indicate that this is going to be a big album for her, and we’re eager to see where she goes. Hopefully we can have more verses like “Plain Jane Remix.”

Phresher – PH

From “Wait A Minute” to Eminem’s “Chloraseptic,” Phresher is about to familiarize you with his name. The rapper previously teased a February release, but as now, it seems likely to drop at a later date. Promising an “emotional roller coaster,” Phresher broke down what we can expect. “We rapping, we singing. I’m doing everything on this project. I’m showing my versatility. There’s nothing I can’t do. And now it’s time to show the people. It’s going to be a roller-coaster emotions. There’s going to be the downs, the ups, the things that motivate you, the “fuck the world.” Everything.”

Rae Sremmurd – Sremmlife 3

Rae Sremmurd’s final chapter in the Sremmlife trilogy has been confirmed to have a January release date, although Swae Lee neglected to elaborate on the specifics. Still, the project has been described as “a continuation the chronicle,” and in the Sremm Holiday Tidal Documentary, producer Mike WiLL Made-It teased “we haven’t even heard the best Sremm.” Suffice it to say, chapter 3 should be the most ambitious Rae Sremmurd project yet. In fact, it’s set to be a triple album, featuring Swae Lee’s Swaecation and Jxmtroduction. 

Redman – Muddy Waters Too

Redman is a legend and you will respect him as such. The iconic rapper recently announced the imminent arrival  Muddy Waters Too, and while we have yet to land anything concrete, we do know that he was getting a few heaters from 9th Wonder. Expect nothing but fire from the Gilla House veteran.

Rich The Kid, Famous Dex & Jay Critch – Rich Forever 4

Rich The Kid, Famous Dex, and Jay Critch are looking to pick up where they left f in 2017. The trio recently shared the album cover for their upcoming mixtape Rich Forever 4, which features the trio depicted as Animaniac-style characters. 

Run The Jewels – Untitled 

While news about the latest from Killer Mike and El-P is relatively unknown, it stands to reason that one hip-hop’s most consistently deadly duos will be dropping f another effort. Back in December 17, El-P was already plotting and scheming, teasing a “filthy, dusty, dirty” new Run The Jewels album. And with all the shit that’s transpired since RTJ 3, there will be no shortage controversy for Jamie and Mike to draw from.

ScHoolboy Q – Untitled

TDE’s secret weapon has been working on his Blank Face follow-up for a minute, and you know it’s about to be another banger. ScHoolboy’s project is presumably near completion, as he’s been saying it’s ninety percent done for months now. The hilarious rapper has been working with Mike WiLL Made-It, and he previously told Zane Lowe a bit about the album’s potential direction, stating “”I gave you me, but I never gave you the other side me: the father, the dude that’s actually happy, the dude that doesn’t be in the hood just hanging out. The dude that’s trying to put his homies in position now. I’m not a deadbeat father anymore.”

Ski Mask The Slump God – Beware The Book Of Eli

Ski Mask’s new project Beware The Book Of Eli has been “coming soon” for what feels like eternity. In early December, Ski shared the tracklist, which featured appearances from Lil Yachty, Busta Rhymes, Offset, and Rich The Kid – unfortunately, XXXTentacion turned down his fer. Production will be handled by Timbaland, Mannie Fresh, Eli, Diplo, and more. No concrete dates for this one, but we’re thinking sooner than later.

Travis Scott – Astroworld

It’s been teased for a minute, but Travis Scott’s follow-up to Astroworld will finally see the light day in 2018. While details are scarce, Travis has confirmed Mike Dean’s involvement in the project, and that the legendary Thom Yorke will be a influence, at least to some degree. Previously, Scott’s A&R teased the album as being “loosely inspired by Houston and its slow-riding, bottom-heavy sound.”  Suffice it to say, expect this one to among the year’s most anticipated releases.

Ugly God – Bumps And Bruises, 777, It’s Going To Be One Ugly Winter

The lizard king is positioned for a busy year. He recently announced plans to drop two albums and an EP (777), which is set to drop “right before or right after” after Bumps And Bruises. It’s Going To Be One Ugly Winter is a collaboration with Wintertime, and has yet to receive a release date. As February, Ugly God claims the projects will each be dropping within the “next few months.”

Waka Flocka – Flockaveli 2

After a five year absence, Waka Flocka Flame has ficially announced Flockaveli 2, which was slated for an “early 2018” release, last we checked. The project also promises to be a return to his “trap roots,” and Flocka teased a staggering nineteen tracks. It’s unclear whether the final tracklist will include singles “Circles” or “Trap My Ass Off,” but it feels like a yes.

XXXTentacion – Skins & Bad Vibes Forever

After a rope-a-dope retirement, XXXTentacion came back with the announcement that he would be dropping three albums across 2018 – Skins, Bad Vibes Forever, and “?”. X has been hard at work, teasing new songs and musical directions with every passing day. This latest tease even finds him on his Travis Scott tip, while other videos find him rocking a return to acoustic guitar ballads.

YG – Stay Dangerous

YG took to All-Star Weekend to announce his upcoming project, simultaneously hitting us with new single “Suu Whoop.” We don’t know much about this project right now, but expect more details to surface in the coming months. One thing is for sure; the West Coast is positioned for a massive 2018 run.