2022 will definitely go down as one of the best years in music of this recent decade. Large claim – I know. However, in terms of the sheer volume of projects that have been released, 2022 is a strong contender. While COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the music industry – and the world of course – many artists were forced to push back their music. Thankfully, all that pent-up energy was released throughout 2021 and 2022, as every artist imaginable decided to drop (including the biggest names in music). As the year comes to a close, here are my favorite albums of 2022.
Honorable Mentions
Firstly, let me share some love for the albums that did not make my top 10 list. As mentioned before, many albums dropped this year, so making a definitive list was very difficult. The albums listed below are exceptional, yet still don’t encapsulate the vast amounts of gems we received in 2022. Without further ado, here are my honorable mentions.
Stormzy: This is What I Mean
Nilüfer Yanya: PAINLESS
Kendrick Lamar: Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers
Spoon: Lucifer on the Sofa
Smino: Love 4 Rent
JID: The Forever Story
Yaya Bey: Remember Your North Star
Pusha T: It’s Almost Dry
Favorite Albums of 2022
10. The Weeknd: Dawn FM
The weekend has had an enormous year. Starting off in 2020 with After Hours, The Starboy kicked off 2022 with his exceptional pop album “Dawn FM.” From a technical point of the view, this album is one of the best-produced albums of the year. From the arrangement to the mix, every instrument is organized in a manner to provide a cinematic experience for the listener.
Influenced by pop legends such as Michael Jackson and Prince, The Weeknd offers another thematic project that continues the story of “After Hours.” Along with his world-class stadium tour “After Hours Til Dawn,” Abel has had a triumphant year. Hopefully, the Grammys will be awake this year.
9. FKA twigs: Caprisongs
Dropping one of the most profound albums this year, the English singer, songwriter, and dancer returned with her critically acclaimed effort “Caprisongs.” Not a stranger to experimentation, FKA twigs takes her listens into a space that showcases her vulnerabilities not as a weakness, but as a strength. The astrology-themed project sonically enhances her vision as she details intimate moments throughout her life. Resulting in a display of her beauty and fearlessness.
8. Lupe Fiasco: Drill Music in Zion
Recorded in a matter of 72 Hours, Lupe Fiasco recorded this album entirely on GarageBand with a $100 USB Microphone in his living room. If that is not enough to convince you of the genius of Lupe, I don’t know what to tell you. The Chicago MC is certainly one of the greatest to ever do it and a trailblazer for many in the Chicago Hip Hop scene. His thought-provoking lyricism is a highlight on the album as he details many of the inequalities and discrimination faced by many black Americans. Along with his storytelling, Professor Fiasco provides a conscious effort that stands above the rest.
7. Wet Leg: Wet Leg
Their self-titled debut “Wet Leg” is surley one of the best albums of the year. As one of the best new rock bands, Hester Chambers and Rhian Teasdale are now the leaders of the new school. In a genre that is male-dominated, it is ALWAYS a treat to see female-led bands. Especially, when they’re tearing up the competition. The project consists of raw yet entertaining lyrics that are supplemented with catchy choruses and incredible riffs. The duo’s quirkiness enhances the album which truly sets them apart- My new favorite band after HAIM.
6. Harry Styles: Harry’s House
The current King of Pop – Yes, I said it. Is he on Michael Jackson’s level? Of course not. But it is hard to deny Harry’s spot as one of the biggest pop stars in the world today. After separating from One Direction, many were skeptical if any member could find their own identity within the music industry. However, out emerges Harry, a unique and talented artist who is able to craft relatable music in spontaneous ways – Cue in Watermelon Sugar.
Showing no fear in expressing himself to the fullest, It’s no surprise that he is well above his old peers. After the huge success of his 2019 album “Fine Line,” Harry returns with even more flare with “Harry’s House.” The funky rhythm and disco/techno-inspired sounds drive the album forward as Harry gets personal with his exceptional songwriting.
5. Rosalía: Motomami
“Motomami – A powerful way of living where a woman is liberated and free of making her own bold choices.” Or, “Biker-Chick,” when translated word for word. This remarkable album should be in everyone’s top 10. Period. For a Latin Artist, or any foreign artist for that matter, to make strides in the U.S., is beyond difficult. However, recently, there has been a huge wave of Latin Pop in the States, with artists such as Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Anitta, and the Motamami herself, Rosalía making headway.
For this album, The Catalonian artist goes all in, as she dives through conversations about gender, race, culture, and sexuality. Her flamboyant presence is thrilling, alongside the many experimental sound choices. Take a seat, and enjoy this exhilarating ride as Rosalía captivates listeners with her chilling vocals and aggressive flows.
4. Logic: Vinyl Days
In my personal opinion, Logic was one of the most talented rappers to emerge from our generation. Coming up with the likes of Joey Badass, Mac Miller, Chance the Rapper, Big Sean, and many more, Logic was blazing his own path in his hometown Maryland. Inspired by Hip-Hop’s golden age of the ’90s, filmography, comics, and anime, Bobby had a unique voice within the genre – most notably, his best album “The Incredible True Story” was a sci-fi cinematic-inspired project.
Unfortunately, as we know, the music industry is a cutthroat environment that can hold a major toll on musicians. Stuck in a dark place, Logic took a step back from the limelight to focus on his mental health. After recharging, Young Sinatra returns with his final album on Def Jam titled “Vinyl Day” – a ferocious effort jam-packed with incredible lyricism, explosive beats (shoutout to 6ix), and incredible features including Action Bronson, Russ, Blu & Exile, Royce 5’9, The Game, and many more. If you are a true hip-hop fanatic, this album is for you. Definitely one of the best rap albums of the year.
3. Taylor Swift: Midnights
There’s not much to say about this album that I have not already stated in my review. It is a no-brainer that “Midnights” is one of the best albums of the year. Even with all her accomplishments, the album was a monumental release that propelled Taylor’s career even further – demonstrating her growth and maturity.
Alongside the luscious pop production with the help of Jack Antonoff, Taylor unlocks a new element, as her insecurities are brought to the spotlight for everyone to see. However, the relatable nature of the album tugs at the heartstrings of the listener. So much so, Taylor swept all 10 spots of the billboard 100 – something never done before. If that’s not mind-blowing, then I don’t know what to tell ya.
2. Stromae: Multitude
If you haven’t heard of Stromae, then I truly feel bad for you. This is your sign to step out of your comfort zone and digest music from other parts of the world. Paul van Haver, better known as Stromae, is a Belgian singer, songwriter, and producer known for his otherworldly concepts and remarkable blending of hip-hop, & electronic music. Stromae garnered wide attention after the release of his 2009 smash hit “Alors on Danse” which resurfaced again trending on Tik Tok. The song was followed up with his critically acclaimed 2013 album “Racine Carrée” (Square Root) which spawned another smash single titled “Papaoutai” (Father, Where are You).
Sadly, the international superstar went on hiatus to take charge in the fashion industry and focus on his family and mental well-being. However, after 9 years away from music, the genius returned with his sophomore album “Multitude.” As the title suggests, the project consists of multiple sounds and instruments from various parts of the world. The production along with potent songwriting elevates the album as Stromae tackles topics of mental health, classism, race, and women empowerment. With Stromae, one thing’s for certain, once you start, you won’t stop listening.
1. Arctic Monkeys: The Car
Considered by many as one of the best bands this generation has to offer, Arctic Monkeys go above and beyond on their seventh studio album “The Car.” Written by the band’s frontman Alex Turner in his Los Angeles home and Paris, the album truly encapsulates the perfect album.
Crafted beautifully with themes of love, uncertainty, and hope, Turner’s stellar songwriting creates a vivid story for listeners to follow along and empathize with the Englishmen. Sonically inspired by funk and lounge music, the album takes on a classic feel – sprinkled with breathtaking visuals and dazzling melodies. “The Car” is undoubtedly the best album of the year – sorry Beyonce.
