@reaa ᥫ᭡.

Created with FreeYourMusic.com where you can transfer playlists to Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and others

Created with FreeYourMusic.com where you can transfer playlists to Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and others

Discover new music from artists we think you'll like. Refreshed every Friday.

Whether what you hear is one of Beyoncé’s fierce statements of autonomy, an inspiring act of consciousness-raising by Kendrick Lamar, an unstoppable party jam by Cardi B, or an oh-so-emo expression of vulnerability by Drake, the best hip-hop and R&B of the 2010s is marked by a boldness and urgency that help these artists cut through all of our culture’s noise and chatter. In terms of sound and impact, the '10s represented a golden age for individuals out to change the game. Just as remarkable is the eagerness of standard-setters like Kanye West and Rihanna to continually rethink what they do, all while recombining a vast array of musical styles and ideas. From hard-hitting trap beats and dancehall rhythms to synth-heavy soundscapes and throwbacks to old-school glories, it all makes for music that keeps pace with fast and unpredictable times.

This R&B and hip-hop hybrid from New Orleans first gained recognition in 2013, with his debut Def Jam single, “I Luv This S--t” featuring Trinidad James. He continued to build his fanbase with the release of his Downtown: Life Under the Gun. Alsina became the first R&B singer to grace the cover of XXL magazine's annual freshman list in 2014. He released his debut album, Testimony, the same year.

These are the songs that helped young Bryson Tiller find his voice. In his unhurried delivery and vivid ideas are the sleepy flow of Kendrick Lamar; the self­-consciousness of his mentor Drake; the confidence of Kanye West; and that touch of street madness from Lil Wayne, fired up with a ton of Louisville attitude.

Some rappers are born for the spotlight, but without beatmaking virtuosos like T-Minus those lights wouldn't be nearly as bright. Combining molasses-thick synths with bursts of bass, T-Minus's productions have helped stars like Kendrick Lamar and Drake find their way to the top of the charts.

"The Pen” is one of the most prolific R&B songwriters of the 2000s. He's worked extensively with Destiny's Child and Beyoncé—having written the bulk of her sophomore album, B'Day—and has also lent his words to Usher, Chris Brown, Ciara, Fergie, Pussycat Dolls, Gwen Stefani, Britney Spears, and Miley Cyrus, to name a few.