Noteworthy Comeback Albums in Hip-Hop

Reliving the glory: A deep dive into hip-hop’s resurgent albums. #HipHop50

Music comebacks have an inherent intrigue that is hard to resist. A musician reclaiming their spot in the limelight after a period of quiet or after a series of less successful attempts carries a certain magnetism.

Here, we will discuss a selection of hip-hop albums that signify a remarkable return to form for their creators. These albums solidified the artists' standing in the hip-hop world and breathed new life into their careers by drawing praise and a renewed perspective from loyal followers and newcomers.

Nas, Stillmatic

Picture this: the year is 2001. Once regarded as a luminary of the hip-hop scene, Nas had been criticized for his previous albums. But then, he fires back with Stillmatic, a sharp-tongued album that reinstates his place in the rap game. He had retaken his throne, and the album was greeted with critical acclaim.

AZ, Aziatic

A similar narrative can be seen in AZ’s 2002 album, Aziatic. After a period of ups and downs, AZ returned to his roots. With a mature style, AZ delivered an album that was both commercially successful and a critical hit.

Common, Be

In 2005, Common redefined his sound and style with Be. Collaborating with producer Kanye West, Common crafted an album that reminded everyone of his ability to produce thoughtful, insightful lyrics over soulful beats. It was a welcome return for the rapper after bouncing back with a mixed reception with Electric Circus.

JAY-Z, American Gangster

Fast-forward to 2007. JAY-Z, a figure who needs no introduction, dropped American Gangster. Inspired by the film of the same name, this concept album saw him returning to his classic mafioso rap roots. It was a bold departure from his preceding work and proved a massive hit.

Raekwon, Only Built 4 Cuban Link, Pt. II

Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. II marked Raekwon's triumphant return in 2009. The album harkens back to the Wu-Tang Clan member's 1995 debut while still feeling fresh and relevant. It was met with praise, solidifying his status as a hip-hop heavyweight.

Lupe Fiasco, Tetsuo & Youth

Lupe Fiasco's 2015 Tetsuo & Youth marked a triumphant return to form after a series of less successful releases. This album celebrated Lupe's strengths: his insightful lyrics and knack for beat selection.

A Tribe Called Quest, We Got It from Here... Thank You 4 Your Service

In 2016, A Tribe Called Quest released We Got It from Here... Thank You 4 Your Service, their first in 18 years. This album was a heartfelt return and a fitting send-off for member Phife Dawg, who passed away earlier that year.

Little Brother, May the Lord Watch

Little Brother returned in 2019 with May the Lord Watch. The album proved that the group had lost none of their energy or insight, even after a lengthy hiatus.

Blu & Exile, Miles

Blu & Exile's Miles, released in 2020, is an expansive album that shows the duo's progression and growth. The lengthy album, filled with insightful verses and compelling beats, was a return to form.

Busta Rhymes, Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God

And finally, Busta Rhymes’ Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God closed off in 2020. This album, filled with guest features and powerful beats, proved that the rapper could still create a compelling album after a lengthy career.

Each album represents a notable return to form for their creators, reminding us of their talent and dedication to their craft. These comebacks, filled with fresh energy and creativity, brought about a renewed appreciation for these artists and their contributions to the hip-hop genre.