This year has been significant for Hip Hop fans for several reasons. Huge wins (and losses) took place this year. Lil Durk earned his first Grammy win, the feud between Kendrick and Drake grabbed everyone’s attention, and Ye made a comeback with the Vultures album series, featuring Ty Dolla $ign. Eminem also returned with his album The Death of Slim Shady, as did Future with his Mixtape Pluto. Meanwhile Missy Elliott hit the road with Ciara and Busta Rhymes, to name a few highlights. As quoted in Rolling Stone, “Hip Hop has already seen more top 100 Billboard entries” as we approach 4th quarter, than the genre saw in 2023 total. Th energy is expected to keep flowing as the year concludes.
September 2024 saw tons of new projects from from G Herbo, Babyface Ray, SleazyWorld Go, Lil Tecca, Monaleo, DaBaby and more.
G Herbo – Big Swerve (Sept. 6)
After a three-year hiatus, G Herbo returned with his sixth album, Big Swerv. The album’s rollout featured a four-part docuseries on YouTube called ‘From GHerbo to Big Swerv.’ It gave fans a glimpse into the making of the album. It also included moments with family and friends, and interview highlights from his early career. Key tracks from the album that showcase his growth as an artist are “Influence” and “Yup.” Rising Midwest talents like Sexyy Red and Skilla Baby, plus a collaboration with the well-known Chicago rapper Chief Keef, are featured in this project. Along with a collaboration from Atlanta native, 21 Savge, who he has worked with on previous projects. This revival marks Herbo’s aim to stay relevant while contributing to the evolving sound of Hip Hop.
SleazyWorld Go – More Than A Shooter (Sept. 6)
SleazyWorld Go unveiled a two-volume drill album, featuring guest appearances by Skilla Baby, Rob49, Polo G, and Einer Bankz. He experienced his first breakthrough in 2022 after Lil Baby was featured on his successful single “Sleazy Flow.” He also opened for Offset on the Set It Off Tour in the Spring of 2024. “What You Need” is the lead single from his debut album More Than A Shooter, released on September 6, 2024. This album encapsulates the essence of Midwest drill while narrating the struggles of growing up in an inner city with limited resources. Moreover, the lyrics emphasize his determination to avoid becoming a product of his surroundings.
Jayson Cash – Bet It Back (Sept. 6)
Chow Lee – Sex Drive (Sept. 6)
Babyface Ray – The Kid That Did (Sept. 13)
On September 13, 2024, Babyface Ray launched his fourth studio album, The Kid That Did. This album is his second release of the year, following Summers Mine, released in July 2024. Standout songs from this project include “Rubberband Man,” “Wavy Navy University,” and “Count Money,” featuring Bossman Dlow. Since his debut mixtape MIA Season in 2015, he has consistently dropped projects every year. This helped secure his status in the Detroit rap landscape alongside artists like Skilla Baby. His storytelling reflects the gritty atmosphere of Detroit, paired with a relaxed lyrical style.
Wale – Ghetto Speak EP (Sept. 6-19)
While Wale did not release a full album, he did share an EP including three singles. Before these singles, he announced a nationwide ‘Every Blue Moon’ tour, starting on September 19. Moreover, the three singles, “Ghetto Speak,” “Mission Statement,” and “What’s The Play,” were released separately. The first two dropped on September 6 and the third on September 19. Together, these tracks showcase Wale’s unique poetic flair and politically conscious lyrics, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his eighth album.
Future – Mixtape Pluto (Sept. 20)
One of the most awaited projects among new music releases in September 2024 was Future’s mixtape, Mixtape Pluto. This marks Future’s third project of the year, following We Don’t Trust You and We Still Don’t Trust You. Across these three projects, Future has already delivered 59 new tracks this year. Mixtape Pluto showcases Future’s talent for blending mumble rap with classic southern trap beats. It also shows that even though his lyrics remain consistent, his flow keeps evolving and adapting over time. The singles “Too Fast” and “Plutoski” showcase his baritone mumble rap style, with lyrics expressing his generous, but yet mysterious persona. Thus, since its debut, Mixtape Pluto has become Future’s third album to hit number one this year and his 11th overall number-one album. These ratings show that his music still resonates with rap fans across all demographics.
Kay Flock – Make America Flock Again (Sept. 20)
Lil Tecca – Plan A (Sept. 20)
Lil Tecca also dropped his fourth studio album this month. Plan A marks his fourth release in four years. Furthermore, all three previous albums successfully entered the top 100 on the Billboard Chart on their debut. He specializes in infectious anthems, combining catchy hooks and melodious beats that appeal to a diverse demographic. Starting music at 16, his self-produced hits have gained nationwide recognition and respect in the industry. With his single “Bad Time” achieving over two million views on YouTube and the follow-up “120” collecting over 200k views. Thus, it’s clear this latest release will likely be as well-received as prior works.
DaBaby – How TF Is This A Mixtape (Sept. 27)
DaBaby is back with a fresh project, following his 2022 album Baby On Baby 2. However, this new work emerges as DaBaby is redeeming his brand since his controversial remarks at Rolling Loud in 2021. Since then, he has been focusing on rebuilding his reputation and connecting with fans directly. How TF is This A Mixtape features 14 tracks, all without guest artists. This is the most cohesive project he has released, since Blame It On Baby was released in 2020. The production quality stands out, along with an impressive range of lyrical content. Standout tracks include “Carry It On,” “I’m Outside,” “Hollywood Freak,” “Reesha Roulette,” “U Da Type,” and “Hate A Nice Check.” This project reflects DaBaby’s serious attempt to make amends and solidify his status as one of the top rappers of his generation.
NLE Choppa – Slut SZN, Vol. 1 (Sept. 27)
Monaleo – Throwing Bows (Sept. 27)
Moneybagg Yo – Speak Now Or… (Deluxe) (Sept. 27)
Future Projections
Moreover, September 2024 has brought exciting new music that has satisfied fans. Each musician brings their special touch, showcasing their journeys while moving the genre ahead. Additionally, these artists are embracing the true essence of their craft, reflecting the raw and genuine vibe that’s been strong in Hip Hop this year. Exciting new albums arriving next month include include GLORIOUS by Glorilla and Last Lap by Rod Wave. Both albums will be released on October 11.
