2021 was a great year for music. There were so many iconic releases that you may have missed out on some of the best albums of the year. Why not give any of the albums below a listen on your speaker and catch up on some of the top music of 2021.
Montero — Lil Nas X
Lil Nas X cemented his meteoric rise in 2021. Montero features collaborations with Megan Thee Stallion and Elton John, making it one of the most star-studded albums of the year. With R&B and rock smoothly entwining with his TikTok bops, Montero carries a dizzying array of styles.
Planet Her — Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s third album is one of the cleanest hip-pop records you’ll hear. With guests including Ariana Grande, Young Thug and The Weeknd, Doja Cat still stands out and produces a performance for the ages.
30 — Adele
After a six-year break, Adele returned with the much-anticipated 30. With more heart-breaking ballads and a little experimentation, Adele came through with the crowd-pleaser that everyone was hoping for.
Sour — Olivia Rodrigo
Pop’s newest superstar burst onto the scene with her debut album, Sour, in 2021. An incredibly modern and chaotic set of breakup tunes followed, achieving critical success and building a huge twitter fanbase.
Skin — Joy Crookes
The South London singer songwriter released Skin to huge acclaim in 2021. It’s a soulful album about identity that will stay with you for some time.
Vince Staples — Vince Staples
This was just a 20-minute album from Vince Staples, but in that time he packed in one of the tightest and most meticulous records of the year. Working with Kenny Beats, Staples showcases his vision and lyricism in a dominant album.
Call me if you get lost — Tyler, The Creator
Tyler, The Creator’s sixth studio album focuses on black nostalgia. As it winds through the journey of Tyler’s life, you’re treated to new tricks and styles marking this down as one of the American rapper’s finest pieces yet.
Promises — Floating Points, Pharoah Sanders and the London Symphony Orchestra
It took the trio of Floating Points, Pharoah Sanders and the London Sympathy Orchestra five years to put Promises together – but it was worth it. This rich and atmospheric album will require endless listens for you to notice every subtlety and texture.
Collapsed in Sunbeams — Arlo Parks
Arlo Parks’ debut album is a showstopper. With confessional, tender tunes, this reflective piece of work announced Arlo Parks’ arrival on the scene.
Happier Than Ever — Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish is on top of the world and Happier Than Ever cemented this. A critical darling and fan favourite, this record will surely stand the test of time.