What is the best hip-hop album of the 1980s?

From the birth of Def Jam to N.W.A changing the game, the 1980s gave birth to hip-hop as a genre. Vote for your favorite album from this foundational decade.

1

Run-DMC – Raising Hell

Run-DMC's 1986 landmark that brought hip-hop to mainstream rock audiences, featuring the iconic Aerosmith collab 'Walk This Way'.

2

Public Enemy – It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back

Public Enemy's 1988 sonic assault and political manifesto, widely regarded as one of the most influential albums in rap history.

3

N.W.A – Straight Outta Compton

N.W.A's explosive 1988 debut that launched gangsta rap and put West Coast hip-hop on the map.

4

Eric B. & Rakim – Paid in Full

Eric B. & Rakim's 1987 debut that set a new standard for lyricism and MC technique.

5

LL Cool J – Radio

LL Cool J's 1985 debut, the first album released on Def Jam Records and a cornerstone of New York hip-hop.

6

Beastie Boys – Licensed to Ill

Beastie Boys' 1986 debut, the first rap album to top the Billboard 200 and a genre-blending classic.

7

De La Soul – 3 Feet High and Rising

De La Soul's 1989 debut that redefined hip-hop with its playful sampling, humor, and alternative aesthetic.

8

Slick Rick – The Great Adventures of Slick Rick

Slick Rick's 1988 solo debut showcasing his storytelling genius with cinematic narratives and vivid characters.

9

Big Daddy Kane – Long Live the Kane

Big Daddy Kane's 1988 debut, celebrated for its razor-sharp lyricism, style, and smooth charisma.

10

Boogie Down Productions – Criminal Minded

KRS-One and DJ Scott La Rock's 1987 debut that pioneered hardcore hip-hop with raw street narratives.

11

EPMD – Strictly Business

EPMD's 1988 debut featuring heavy funk samples and laid-back flows that defined East Coast hip-hop.

12

Ice-T – Power

Ice-T's 1988 album that helped codify West Coast gangsta rap with explicit street narratives.

13

Kool Moe Dee – How Ya Like Me Now

Kool Moe Dee's 1987 breakout album that established him as one of the era's most technically skilled MCs.

14

Schoolly D – Schoolly D

Schoolly D's 1985 self-titled debut, an early progenitor of gangsta rap from Philadelphia.