Somehow we’ve made it to the halfway mark of 2020, and a LOT has happened in the past 6 months. But in the midst of it all we’ve had some pretty impactful album releases, and we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 projects of 2020 thus far.
10. KID KROW by CONAN GRAY
Why it’s on our list: Released in March, Kid Krow is Conan’s first studio album, and best received project to date. The production quality and relatable topics are so pleasant and we love how much growth this album represents.
Favourite song: “Maniac”
9. CHROMATICA by LADY GAGA
Why it’s on our list: Chromatica, Gaga’s sixth studio album makes the list at #9. The 16-track dance-pop album has iconic collabs with BLACKPINK, Ariana Grande and Elton John.
Favourite song: “Rain On Me” ft. Ariana Grande
8. RARE by SELENA GOMEZ
Why it’s on our list: We’re here for the album’s variety and overall messaging. There’s an even mix of ballads and bops and we love that Selena’s promoting self-love through her music.
Favourite song: “Look At Her Now”
7. CITY ON LOCK by CITY GIRLS
Why it’s on our list: The surprise drop took us for a loop last month, and after a year of hardships for the duo, it’s nice to see them back on top. Like always, the City Girls provide us with real and uncensored experiences from two independent women.
Favourite song: “Jobs”
6. BEFORE LOVE CAME TO KILL US by JESSIE REYEZ
Why it’s on our list: B.L.C.T.K.U. is the first full length album from Canadian artist Jessie Reyez. We’re celebrating it for its lyricism…it’s witty, it’s provocative, it gets the people going. Plus, Jessie’s voice just ethereally floats on songs like “Imported” ft 6LACK.
Favourite song: “Ankles”
5. THE ALBUM by TEYANA TAYLOR
Why it’s on our list: The 23-song project features hip hop royalty like Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliot, Rick Ross, and most importantly, Junie (Teyana’s adorable daughter). On top of that, Teyana proves that you don’t have to sacrifice your artistry or passion when becoming a mother. The multi-faceted star even revealed her second pregnancy last month in her music video for “Wake Up Love” ft. Iman.
Favourite song: “Bare Wit Me”
4. AFTER HOURS by THE WEEKND
Why it’s on our list: March was a huge month in music, especially because The Weeknd dropped After Hours, his fourth studio album with a 14 song listing. The 80’s inspired R&B album reminds us of the trilogy era, which is a nice departure from the recent pop-influenced songs we’ve been hearing from him.
Favourite song: “Snowchild”
3. COLORES by J BALVIN
Why it’s on our list: Do we understand 90% of the Spanish-sung verses? No. But good music transcends linguistic barriers. Colores beautifully personifies all the colours of the rainbow and this 10-track reggaeton album is probably the closest we’re getting to a vacation in the tropics anytime soon.
Favourite song: “Morado”
2. HEARTBREAK WEATHER by NIALL HORAN
Why it’s on our list: The second solo album from the former 1D member really helped him cement himself as a top notch stand alone act. Heartbreak Weather was released in March and has a bunch of swoon worthy songs.
Favourite song: “San Francisco”
1. CHILOMBO by JHENE AIKO
Why it’s on our list: Chilombo, Aiko’s third studio album shows the evolution of Jhene’s sound while offering an enjoyable range of tranquil meditative songs and raunchier break up anthems.
Favourite song: “B.S.” ft H.E.R.
Sound off on your favourite albums on Instagram @umusic and feel free to completely disagree. Music and this list are completely subjective and…
