We all know that 2016 was, in a lot of ways, a pretty subpar year. From senseless killings to senseless elections, it was pretty dark. Luckily, in a year filled with so much hate and sadness, quality music shone through. Both music's brightest stars and its promising newcomers gifted listeners with cohesive concept pieces and ambitious, idea-filled albums.
From the Knowles sisters' bold musical statements to Kanye's scattered genius to David Bowie's triumphant farewell, it's been a great year for music. Frank Ocean even popped in to drop off two albums. With this being said, it's definitely challenging to narrow all of the great bodies of work that artists put out in 2016. I just want to give everyone recognition for even participating and helping us to get through this year. At any rate, here are, in my opinion, the best mainstream musical efforts of the year:
1. "Lemonade"— Beyoncé
The superstar's most personal and cohesive effort to date is also her best. Whether or not the Carters' marriage is the inspiration behind the project, Beyoncé brings light to a very relatable and important part of life; the art of making it through your struggle. This groundbreaking album and visual counterpart have garnered a list of awards, nominations and titles including "the second best-reviewed album of 2016." Lemonade not only furthered Beyoncé's status as a living icon, but it gave us timeless anthems. "Get in formation."
2. "A Seat at the Table"— Solange
The brilliantly black third album from the youngest Knowles sister was definitely one of the year's best efforts. Solange finally solidified her place in mainstream music while proving that the third time really is the charm. Solange's A Seat at the Table helped many of us to believe that we do belong. "This shit is for us."
3. "Blackstar"— David Bowie
David Bowie's powerful final album is a few things. It's dark in the sense that he released it just two days before his death. It's brilliant in that it's such a great body of work, regardless of its release date. Lastly, it's a statement. Blackstar is Bowie's final gift to the world that solidifies his status as an eternal icon.
4. "Blonde"— Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean miraculously returned to deliver two of my favorite albums of the year, Blonde and Endless. The latter is a more experimental visual-album, and the former is a traditional album that features a more daring Frank. He followed up the critically acclaimed Channel Orange with more beautiful art and even managed to score another André 3000 verse. See you next presidential election season, Frank!
5. "A Moon Shaped Pool"— Radiohead
The latest project from the critically-acclaimed group was brilliantly executed. A Moon Shaped Pool further proves that Radiohead is both as clever and sonically pleasing as ever.
6. "Coloring Book"— Chance the Rapper
Chance made an amazing album and further solidified his spot in both hip-hop and pop culture. Further, the guy had one hell of a year. The proud Chicagoan performed at the White House, got nominated for a whopping seven Grammys, and gave us more #blackboyjoy than ever. Salute, Chance.
7. "For All We Know"— NAO
NAO DESERVED SOME KIND OF GRAMMY RECOGNITION FOR THIS BUT WHATEVER. For All We Know features the only "Bad Blood" that matters. Throughout the album she delivers sweet, yet versatile vocals with ease. She's on to something... Get to know her.
8. "Malibu"— Anderson .Paak
Anderson .Paak had an amazing year that started with this amazing album. Malibu features the rising star delivering rhymes and raspy, soulful vocals that truly captivate. The unique tone of his voice in addition to the various forms of talent that he possesses makes .Paak destined for greatness.
9. "The Life Of Pablo"— Kanye West
This album is as scattered, yet brilliant as it's creator. The ever-changing The Life Of Pablo shines thanks to an all-star group of collaborators and thoughtfully used samples. Though the rapper has been hit with several personal issues this year, his music has continued to shine through.
10. "Anti"— Rihanna
Rihanna's eighth effort turned out to be her best. On Anti, the all-around star shifts away from pop hits and performs more thoughtful, personal tracks. The kicker is that she still managed to score a smash hit with the Drake-assisted "Work." With Anti, Rihanna proved that she can go against the grain, give fans a real look at who she is as an artist, and stay at the top of the charts. Though hit-filled albums like 2010's Loud are good in their own right, I definitely want more of this Rihanna.
