In today's age of technology, two decades ago can seem like two lifetimes ago.
With the exception of Yung Thug, rap music's sound has remained constant. Twenty years ago, however, there was rap music being played that would be rendered classic regardless of when it was released.
Even though the '90s seems ancient, there are five albums that will always stand the test of time. Of course there are hundreds of classic albums released by countless great artists, but only five will be named in this piece.
Just as a forewarning, the writer bias combined with the list will make for great controversy.
5. "Reasonable Doubt" by Jay-Z
The album was released by Jay-Z in 1996 under his own label, Roc-A-Fella Records. It was Jay-Z' s debut album and set the platform for what will be a surefire hall of fame career for the rapper entrepreneur. "Reasonable Doubt" is packed with great songs like "Can't Knock the Hustle" and "Can I Live" that have made a lasting impression on the hip-hop culture.
4. "Aquemini" by OutKast
This album came out in 1998 and is the rap duo's third album. They released their first album in the '90s with Laface Records. The down south style of the Atlanta based group, along with their creative way of laying bars, help to bring the Mecca of rap to the ATL. Anybody who loves Southern rap will be able to listen to this album track for track. "Da Art of Storytelling" and "West Savannah" will make any rap connoisseur a fan of OutKast if they never heard this album.
3. "Riding Dirty" by UGK
Released in 1996, this artwork helped to establish UGK as one of the most influential rap groups in the history of rap. Comprised of Pimp C and Bun B, these two rap juggernauts never left anything to imagination when they rhyme. From Houston, UGK was untouchable with the classic track "Diamonds N Wood," which showcased the flashy lifestyle of pimps and street n*ggas. It is hard to single out this album as their best, so to be fair, "Too Hard to Swallow" (1992) gets an honorable mention.
2. "Illmatic" by Nas
This is arguably one of the best rap albums ever recorded. Track for track, this album can be listened to by anybody who has developed an ear for rap. Released in 1994, "Illmatic" is still highly revered by many top artists today. Tracks like "One Time for ya Mind" and "N.Y. State of Mind" will leave your repeat button broken.
1. "Ready to Die" by the Notorious B.I.G.
In my opinion, Biggie was the best rapper to emerge on the scene. He seldom wrote his rhymes and free-styled his albums, with a little mental stimulation, which inspired a new age in rap. "Live for the Funk" is one of many songs that clogged many FM radio airwaves for years. Easily this is the best albums of the '90s and one of my favorites.
