Jay Z: 4:44

Jay Z’s crisp and concise latest release is filled with personal revelations: apologizing for cheating on his wife, accepting his mom as a lesbian, revealing his failures, reflecting on his past, and schooling young rappers. Even though his flow and swag remained cool under pressure, his heartfelt lyrics are poured all over No I.D.’s minimal-yet-soulful productions. As a concept album, 4:44 continues the monumental success of Reasonable Doubt, The Blueprint, and The Black Album.