As 2026 begins, hip-hop looks ready for a huge year. Long-delayed projects are finally nearing release, artists are teasing new directions, and genre innovators continue pushing boundaries.
50 Most Anticipated Rap / Hip-hop albums of 2026
Below are the 50 most buzzed-about rap and hip-hop albums fans are watching most closely this year — including confirmed releases and high-profile works in progress.
1. A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb
Release Date: January 16, 2026
After nearly eight years of anticipation, Rocky finally delivers his fourth studio album. Featuring an eclectic production palette from Madlib, The Alchemist, and Metro Boomin, the project is rumored to be a “high-fashion audio-visual experience” with Tim Burton-designed aesthetics.
2. Ye (Kanye West) – Bully
Release Date: January 30, 2026
Following the chaotic Vultures era, Ye returns to a more solo-focused, sample-heavy sound. Early previews like “White Lines” suggest a more vulnerable, introspective tone that fans haven’t heard since the Donda or Ye eras.
3. Drake – ICEMAN
Release Date: TBA (Expected Q1 2026)
Drake has been teasing this cinematic, ice-themed project through “episodic” livestreams and singles like “What Did I Miss?”. Positioning it as a conceptual reset after his 2025 beefs, ICEMAN is rumored to feature a cold, moody atmosphere with a heavy Houston influence.
4. Playboi Carti – BABY BOI
Release Date: TBA 2026
Coming off the massive success of MUSIC in 2025, Carti is already pivoting to a new sound. Teased as a more “melodic yet dark” follow-up, BABY BOI looks to further cement the dominance of his Opium label and the “Deep Voice” era.
5. Kendrick Lamar – TBA
Release Date: Late 2026
Following the cultural earthquake that was GNX, Kendrick is reportedly back in the studio with Sounwave and Jack Antonoff. Insiders suggest the new material leans into funky, West Coast-inspired grooves that focus on rejuvenation rather than conflict.
6. J. Cole – The Fall Off
Release Date: TBA 2026
The long-awaited finale to Cole’s discography has reportedly been “reset” after the events of 2025. This project is expected to be his ultimate thesis on his place in rap history, potentially featuring his most complex storytelling to date.
7. Yeat – A DANGEROUS LYFE
Release Date: Early 2026
Yeat continues to expand his “Lyfestyle” universe with distorted, industrial-heavy beats. This project aims to bridge the gap between his underground “rage” roots and a more mainstream, high-budget cinematic sound.
8. Lil Uzi Vert – TBA
Release Date: Mid-2026
Uzi has been teasing a return to their “prime melodic form” after experimenting with different genres. Snippets suggest a blend of the Eternal Atake energy with the raw eccentricity that defined their early SoundCloud era.
9. NBA YoungBoy – Slime Cry
Release Date: TBA 2026
YoungBoy’s first major project of 2026 is rumored to be his most emotionally raw yet. Following a period of personal transition, Slime Cry is expected to focus on growth and the legal battles that have shaped his recent life.
10. Future – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Pluto never rests, and 2026 will see a new solo effort that reportedly doubles down on the “hedonistic” trap sound he perfected. Expect heavy production from Metro Boomin and Southside as he aims to reclaim the charts.
11. Don Toliver – OCTANE
Release Date: Early 2026
Following Hardstone Psycho, Don is leaning even harder into his “bikercore” and high-speed aesthetic. The album is expected to feature lush, psychedelic production with guest spots from the Cactus Jack roster.
12. Young Thug – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Following his 2025 comeback UY Scuti, Thugger is expected to release a project that marks his full return to form. This album will likely feature his signature melodic experimentation and a celebration of his influence on the new generation.
13. Nicki Minaj – TBA
Release Date: March 2026
The Queen of Rap is rumored to be dropping a project focused on pure lyricism and “Gag City” energy. After a busy 2025, this album is aimed at re-establishing her dominance as a technical powerhouse in the booth.
14. Chief Keef – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
The drill pioneer remains one of the most influential figures in the game. His 2026 project is expected to continue his trend of self-produced, experimental sounds that push the boundaries of the Chicago scene.
15. Quavo – SATCHAMO
Release Date: TBA 2026
Executive produced by Pharrell Williams, this project is set to be Quavo’s most musically ambitious solo effort. It aims to blend his signature Atlanta trap roots with Pharrell’s futuristic, funky production.
16. Lil Baby – Dominique
Release Date: February 2026
Named after his first name, this project is described as an introspective companion to his more commercial hits. It is expected to tackle the pressures of fame and his evolution as a businessman in the Atlanta scene.
17. Lil Baby & CBFW – CBFW Tape
Release Date: TBA 2026
A label-wide showcase for Lil Baby’s Change the Game For the World roster. This tape is designed to highlight the rising stars under his wing, featuring heavy collaboration and street-oriented anthems.
18. Baby Keem – Child With Wolves
Release Date: TBA 2026
The pgLang star is expected to return with a project he describes as “classical rage.” It will likely feature his trademark high-energy delivery mixed with orchestral and experimental production.
19. Roddy Ricch – The Navy Album
Release Date: TBA 2026
After a period of reflection and several delayed releases, Roddy is aiming for a major comeback. This project is rumored to be a return to the hit-making formula of Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial.
20. Ken Carson – The Experiment
Release Date: TBA 2026
Ken Carson is set to push the Opium “rage” sound into even more distorted and chaotic territory. This project is expected to be a high-octane experience designed for his dedicated cult following.
21. Destroy Lonely – Drop Dead Gorgeous
Release Date: TBA 2026
Lone’s 2026 effort is rumored to be an atmospheric, “vamp-chic” project. Expect a focus on moody guitars and his unique, laid-back flow that has become a staple of the underground.
22. Destroy Lonely & Ken Carson – TBA
Release Date: Late 2026
The long-rumored joint project between the two Opium pillars is finally expected to materialize. Fans are anticipating a “modern-day Watch the Throne” but for the rage and trap-metal scene.
23. EsDeeKid – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
After going viral on social media for his “plugg” sound, EsDeeKid is poised for a major breakout. This debut album will determine if his internet hype can translate into a lasting career.
24. Nettspend – Early Life Crisis
Release Date: TBA 2026
Nettspend is leading the charge for the new wave of teenage “plugg” rappers. This project is expected to be a raw, unfiltered look into his fast-paced lifestyle and rising fame.
25. LUCKI – Drugs R Bad
Release Date: TBA 2026
The underground king of “numb” trap is returning with a project that explores themes of addiction and self-awareness. Expect the signature hazy, bass-heavy production his fans adore.
26. Lancey Foux – The Time Of Our Lives
Release Date: TBA 2026
The UK’s most experimental export is expected to drop a project that further blends punk, trap, and house. Lancey’s fashion-forward approach will likely be reflected in the album’s rollout.
27. Doechii – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Following her meteoric rise in 2024 and 2025, the TDE star is preparing her formal debut studio album. It is expected to showcase her incredible versatility, ranging from hard-hitting bars to soulful R&B.
28. Gunna & Offset – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Two of Atlanta’s most consistent hitmakers are rumored to be working on a collaborative project. This would combine Gunna’s melodic flow with Offset’s rapid-fire delivery for a guaranteed chart-topper.
29. Rod Wave – Don’t Look Down
Release Date: TBA 2026
Rod Wave continues his streak of “soul-trap” projects that resonate deeply with his massive fanbase. This album is expected to focus on overcoming adversity and finding peace amidst success.
30. Ice Spice – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Following her 2025 efforts, Ice Spice is looking to evolve her “drill-pop” sound. This project will likely feature more diverse production and high-profile features to keep her at the top of the pop-rap world.
31. Skepta – Fork & Knife
Release Date: TBA 2026
The London legend is returning with a project that reportedly bridges the gap between classic grime and his newer, house-influenced sounds. Expect sharp lyricism and top-tier UK production.
32. Isaiah Rashad – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Zay fans are used to the wait, but 2026 looks like the year for his next soulful masterpiece. Expect a project filled with jazzy loops, introspective bars, and a laid-back Southern vibe.
33. Veeze – Worst Tape
Release Date: TBA 2026
The Detroit star is building on the massive success of Ganger. Worst Tape is expected to feature his signature witty flows and nonchalant delivery over bass-heavy Michigan production.
34. Latto – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Latto is aiming for a “cultural reset” with her 2026 project. Following her rise to superstardom, this album is rumored to be more bar-heavy while still providing the radio anthems she’s known for.
35. GloRilla – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Memphis’ leading lady is set to bring her high-energy, gravelly flow to a new project. Fans are expecting a blend of street anthems and genre-crossing collaborations.
36. JID & Metro Boomin – God Doesn’t Like Ugly
Release Date: TBA 2026
One of the most anticipated collaborative albums in years. JID’s technical mastery paired with Metro’s cinematic production is being hailed by insiders as a “future classic” in the making.
37. Stove God Cooks – GOAT Stamp
Release Date: TBA 2026
The Griselda affiliate is finally ready to drop his long-awaited solo project. Expect high-level drug-rap lyricism and some of the most soulful hooks in the underground scene.
38. Key Glock – The 16th Locker
Release Date: TBA 2026
Maintaining the legacy of Paper Route Empire, Key Glock is set to drop another solo effort. It will likely continue his streak of catchy, boastful trap with zero features.
39. Trippie Redd – NDA
Release Date: TBA 2026
Trippie is reportedly going back to his melodic roots for this project. After experimenting with rage and R&B, NDA is expected to focus on the emo-rap sound that first made him a star.
40. Westside Gunn – Flygod Is An Awesome God III
Release Date: TBA 2026
The curator of the Griselda movement returns to his iconic series. Expect high-art aesthetics, luxury boom-bap, and a star-studded list of underground features.
41. A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie – TBA
Release Date: TBA 2026
The New York melody king is expected to drop a project focused on “summer anthems.” This album will likely feature his signature smooth vocals and stories of life in the Bronx.
42. DJ Khaled – Aalam of God
Release Date: TBA 2026
Khaled is back with another massive compilation. Expect the usual roster of superstars, from Drake to Future, all delivered with his signature “We The Best” energy.
43. Joji – Piss In The Wind
Release Date: February 6, 2026
While crossing genres, Joji’s influence on the “lo-fi rap” aesthetic remains massive. This project is expected to be a dark, melancholic journey through his unique blend of R&B and hip-hop.
44. Sheck Wes – YKTS
Release Date: TBA 2026
The “Mo Bamba” rapper is finally returning with a full-length project. Teased for years, YKTS (You Know The Scouts) is expected to be a high-energy, mosh-pit-inducing experience.
45. Gorillaz – The Mountain
Release Date: February 27, 2026
The world’s most famous virtual band is back with a project heavy on hip-hop features. Rumored guests include Schoolboy Q, Danny Brown, and Little Simz.
46. Jordan Ward – BACKWARD
Release Date: TBA 2026
One of the most exciting rising voices in the R&B/Rap crossover space. This project is expected to be a soulful, funk-inspired journey that highlights his incredible vocal range.
47. Denzel Curry – Strictly For The Scythe
Release Date: TBA 2026
Denzel is leaning back into his dark, aggressive “Raider Klan” roots for this one. Expect a project filled with high-speed bars and experimental, industrial-tinged beats.
48. The Roots – Endgame
Release Date: TBA 2026
The legendary crew is reportedly finishing their first new album in over a decade. Fans are expecting a masterclass in live-band hip-hop and socio-political commentary.
49. DaBaby – Be More Grateful
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Kicking off the year, DaBaby is using this project to pivot into a more mature sound. It’s an introspective effort that looks back at his career highs and lows with a new sense of perspective.
50. Mavi – First In Flight
Release Date: TBA 2026
The poetic North Carolina rapper is ready to take his “Afrofuturist” sound to the next level. This project is expected to be a dense, lyrical exploration of identity and history.
2026 promises resets, comebacks, and innovations across rap and hip-hop. With this many albums on the horizon, fans have an exciting year ahead as dates and tracklists solidify.
