Over the course of the millennium, the UK hip hop scene has propelled itself to the forefront of British culture. Its existence does not trace as far back as the American hip hop scene, but it has stamped its authority to become the thriving industry it is today.
Without the appropriate documentation, iconic projects have been lost in history. No blogs kept track of the timeline, nor are there any established, all-time lists to archive the scene in the internet’s catalogue of data.
To fix that, Mic Cheque presents a living, breathing record of the greatest UK rap albums of all-time, featuring the popular classics, the underrated classics, the underground classics and the forgotten classics.
This list includes studio albums, mixtapes and official compilation albums of all subgenres (hip hop, grime, road rap, drill), not all of which are available on digital streaming platforms. Albums by British-born rappers that migrated to the United States are omitted from this list (MF DOOM, Slick Rick, Monie Love). Also excluded are iconic mixtapes that aren’t exactly classics, but will be compiled by Mic Cheque in a future article (featuring Scorcher, Don Strapzy, Fekky, Young Spray & more).
Take in over a hundred UK classics after the break. Follow the matching Spotify playlist which adds every streamable project from this article in chronological order:
Derek B, Bullet from a Gun (1988)
Format: Album
Genre: Golden age hip hop
The late Derek B’s only album is recorded as the first major release by a British rapper. Released in the same year as NWA’s Straight Outta Compton and Slick Rick’s Great Adventures, Bullet from a Gun charted as high as number 11 on the UK Albums Chart, and led to Derek B supporting Public Enemy and Run-DMC on tour. Put your oldhead cap on for this one (and the next dozen albums in this list).
London Posse, Gangster Chronicle (1990)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
The most well-known classic of the 90s is Gangster Chronicle by London Posse, consisting famously of Rodney P alongside Bionic, DJ Biznizz and Sipho. Gangsta Chronicle brought authenticity to a fetal UK rap scene, leading the charge for NY-inspired London MCs to finally bring cockney accents to UK hip hop while continuing to draw on Caribbean hallmarks.
MC Mell’O, Thoughts Released (1990)
Format: Album
Genre: Golden age hip hop
Hailing from Battersea, South London, MC Mell’O’s only album captures the essence of the 80s without sounding dated. It was released under Republic Records, and while it didn’t achieve commercial success, Thoughts Released is good enough to go head-to-head with American equivalents released at the same time. Mell’O’s Brit-leaning accent is another bonus factor in an era when the American mimicking couldn’t be escaped.
Hijack, The Horns of Jericho (1991)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
Brixton collective Hijack consisted of six members, and were one of the first rap crews out the country. Their buzz led to signing with Ice-T and his record label, Rhyme Syndicate Records. The Horns of Jericho finds Hijack leaning heavily on American production and accents, a common case throughout 90s UK albums. But the record remains a British relic, incorporating samples that would go on to be used by rappers like Nas.
Silver Bullet, Bring Down the Walls No Limit Squad Returns (1991)
Type: Album
Genre: Britcore
Silver Bullet is another obscure rapper from the 90s. His one and only album showcases his signature chopper flows. Bring Down the Walls was released under Parlophone Records and charted at number 38 on the UK Albums Chart—proving that labels were paying attention to British rap buzz, but were not funding or promoting the releases enough.
Caveman, Positive Reaction (1991)
Format: Album
Genre: Jazz rap
Haven’t heard of this one either? Such is the pattern for the lost history of UK rap in the 90s. Caveman were the first British rap groups signed to a major American label. Their album Positive Reaction specialises in the jazz rap sound most commonly associated with A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul.
Gunshot, Patriot Games (1993)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
Another obscure UK rap crew, consisting of five members from Leyton, East London. Just like many of these 90s albums, Patriot Games is an underground classic that many won’t know but hardcore hip hop fans have granted it the honorary status.
The Brotherhood, Elementalz (1996)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
The Brotherhood’s Elementalz is slightly more well-known in comparison, but still clings on to its underground status. Released under Virgin Records, Elementalz uses a combination of British-American accents over dusty boom bap beats, and has been labelled as one of the best & most influential UK hip hop albums.
Blak Twang, Dettwork SouthEast (1996)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
South London’s Blak Twang is one of the 90s UK rappers still standing. But his “debut” album is a strange one. It was sent out to outlets back in 1996, but never officially released by the label. It remained a bootleg classic until its official issue seventeen years later, in 2013. We also thank Blak Twang for using his natural accent on here.
Lewis Parker, Masquerades & Silhouettes (1998)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
The quality of these 90s classics can be debated plenty. But Lewis Parker’s Masquerades & Silhouettes is undisputed in both categories. The 8-track LP is an eerie, spine-chilling experience, featuring elite self-produced beats that make you forgive the British-American accents. Lewis Parker would go on to work with Wu-Tang Clan’s Ghostface Killah, and still puts out albums in the 2020s. This one is all killer, no filler.
Roots Manuva, Brand New Second Hand (1999)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
The 90s didn’t produce many well-known British classics, but Stockwell resident Roots Manuva ensured the millennium was left with a memorable one, mixing hip hop with ragga in similar vein to Gangster Chronicle. Brand New Second Hand comes from one of the most iconic UK hip hop rappers of all-time, and has the critical acclaim, notoriety and streams to back it.
Phi Life Cypher, Millennium Metaphors (2000)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
The start of the new millennium was a quiet one for the UK scene. But Luton-based trio Phi Life Cypher used that to their advantage on the aptly-titled debut album, Millennium Metaphors. Made up of Life MC, Si Phili and DJ Nappa, the group made waves as finalists in Tim Westwood’s Talent 2000 competition and appearing on a demo to the iconic Gorillaz song, “Clint Eastwood”. The co-signs are validated on Millennium Metaphors, a raw & valiant project that bottles up the last remnants of the dusty dungeon 90s.
Task Force, Voice of the Great Outdoors (2000)
Format: EP
Genre: Britcore
Boom bap found its way to Britain, dominating the underground scene during the early 2000s. Hip hop collective Task Force (consisting of Chester P, Farma G and others) led the charge with this overlooked EP. Other releases could also be debated as classics, but this concise project remains their most popular and iconic.
Braintax, Biro Funk (2001)
Format: Album
Genre: Brithop
Braintax released a trio of albums before retiring from the game (and flying off the grid with the royalties of rappers he signed to his infamous label, Low Life). His 2001 debut, Biro Funk, is his clearest display of pure British lyricism and boom bap beats.
So Solid Crew, They Don’t Know (2001)
Format: Album
Genre: Garage
The most iconic UK collective of all time enjoyed the scene’s first taste of mainstream success with their debut album; featuring classic hits such as “21 Seconds”, “They Don’t Know”, “Haters” and “Ride wid Us”.
Roots Manuva, Run Come Save Me (2001)
Format: Album
Genre: Britcore
Roots Manuva grabbed back-to-back classics with his 1999 debut and the follow-up, Run Come Save Me. This album achieved more success, charting at number 33 and is Gold-certified. It could even be argued to be a better album than its predecessor, pushing the envelope with its obscure production and cleaner structure.
DJ Skitz, Countryman (2001)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
DJ and producer DJ Skitz provided one of the best producer albums in hip hop in 2001. The bonafide Countryman brought together the finest of UK rappers in ways DJ Khaled could never. Task Force, Estelle, Roots Manuva, Rodney P, Harry Love, and more underground talents contribute pristine raps to an album that needs the dust blown off its cover.
Pay As U Go Cartel, Pay As U Go (2001)
Format: Compilation
Genre: Garage
The sole full-length remnant of Pay As U Go Cartel, the earliest garage collective alongside So Solid Crew, comprised of MCs such as Wiley, God’s Gift, Flowdan, Riko Dan, Maxwell D and many more.
Heartless Crew, Crisp Biscuit (2002)
Format: Compilation
Genre: Garage
Another rare garage mix by another iconic garage collective, the Heartless Crew, featuring MC Bushkin, MC Mighty Moe, and DJ Fonti. Like the Pay As U Go mix, Crisp Biscuit is not a unique studio release, but remains the only full-length offering from the garage pioneers.
Jehst, Return of the Drifter (2002)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Just like MF DOOM, Aesop Rock and El-P, Kent rapper Jehst is one of the most adored underground UK rappers. His 2002 debut record is considered one of the best hip hop records out the country, featuring clear raps and production that feels right at home in the noughties.
The Streets, Original Pirate Material (2002)
Format: Album
Genre: Brithop
At this point of the list, more familiar faces will begin cropping up. Starting off is Mike Skinner of The Streets, the recipient of two number one albums. His debut Original Pirate Material is widely considered an all-timer record, uniquely meshing hip hop with garage, electronic and alternative production to compliment Skinner’s lad-rap tales. It remains one of the only UK rap albums to transcend the country, celebrated as a 2000s classic by international outlets.
Ms. Dynamite, A Little Deeper (2002)
Format: Album
Genre: Alt. Hip Hop
North London’s Ms. Dynamite was an instant star, nurturing her garage roots into a diverse debut album, produced largely with American producer, Salaam Remi (Nas, Amy Winehouse). The Platinum album spawned classics hits “Dy-Na-Mi-Tee”, “It Takes More” and “Put It Out”, blending hip hop with R&B in ways rarely seen in the history of UK music.
Dizzee Rascal, Boy in da Corner (2003)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
The nucleus of grime is Dizzee Rascal’s debut record, Boy in da Corner, the most celebrated grime album of all-time. With Boy in da Corner, the commercial gate for grime opened and signalled an oncoming revolution. To this day, it remains the most experimental and daring grime record, with impact reaching every corner of the globe.
Foreign Beggars, Asylum Speakers (2003)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Rap group Foreign Beggars consisted of two emcees (Orifice Vulgatron, Metropolis), a producer (Dag Nabbit) and a DJ (Nonames). Their debut album brings competitive rhyming, appearances from fellow underground artists Skinnyman, Taskforce and Dr. Syntax, and beats for every season. Dusty, sunny or dreary, Asylum Speakers has a sound for all moods, and is one of the few albums in UKHH that united the underground rap scene during the early days.
More Fire Crew, More Fire Crew C.V. (2003)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
The short-lived More Fire Crew had considerable impact before their disbandment. Lethal B, Ozzie B and Neeko B delivered their only studio album in 2003, best known for its classic lead single, “Oi!”, the first commercially successful grime song. The album indulges in similar production and ideas, but remains a pivotal classic in the grime genre.
Wiley, Treddin on Thin Ice (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
The Grime Godfather’s debut album contributed massively to the floodgates of grime parading the airwaves. Featuring his signature eskibeat production, Treddin’ on Thin Ice channels the style of grime synonymous with Wiley and Wiley only. The disjointed structure works in its favour, broken with up classic instrumental interludes amongst hits like “Pies” and “Wot Do U Call It?”.
The Streets, A Grand Don’t Come for Free (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Brithop
The Streets’ sophomore album continued in daring directions. A Grand Don’t Come for Free is a concept album (more specifically, a rap opera) around a protagonist manoeuvring through working class struggles; a broken relationship, risky gambling urges, a missing £1,000, among more. Vivid storytelling, spoken-word performances and unique yet accessible production make up Skinner’s second classic.
Rodney P, The Future (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop / Ragga
Rodney P began his career with the aforementioned London Posse and their album Gangster Chronicle. He released his sole solo record, The Future, fourteen years later, playing with his signature blend of hip hop and ragga music.
Dizzee Rascal, Showtime (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Dizzee Rascal’s post-debut records are unfairly shadowed by the exceptional Boy in da Corner. While it may not match up to the same degree, his second studio album is also one-of-a-kind with its skeletal grime production and thick raps. Experimental grime would never return from this point, which is why Showtime is an underrated classic.
Klashnekoff, The Sagas Of… (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
2004 is perhaps the best year for UK hip hop. Another seminal release is The Sagas Of… which comes courtesy of British-Jamaican emcee Klashnekoff. This is 50 minutes of dusty dungeon rap, as if a battle is taking place in the darkest corner of a tiny venue. It establishes Klashnekoff as one of the nation’s greatest rhymers to ever do it, delivering razor-sharp flows and vicious energy as he skates over production from Lewis Parker, Joe Buhdha and Harry Love. The most famous track is “Murda”, typically considered the best UK hip hop song of all-time.
Skinnyman, Council Estate of Mind (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Brithop
In what is perhaps the most essential UK hip hop album, Skinnyman’s Council Estate of the Mind is a bonafide classic of the nation. Released in 2004, Council Estate of Mind is the North London rapper’s only album ever but managed to make exactly the mark needed. Focused on sharp bars and vintage hip hop production, the album masterfully paints pictures of the working class life. It was one of the first UK rap albums to chart, peaking at number 65, but leaving an everlasting legacy in its path. Highlights include the title track, “Fuck the Hook”, “Life in My Rhymes”, “Little Man” and more. This is as good as UKHH gets.
PDC, Pray Days Change (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Road rap
Enter, road rap: the most beloved subgenre of UK hip hop. in mainstream communities. Brixton collective PDC were one of the first crews to bring gangsta rap to the UK, inspired by the polarising work of 50 Cent, G-Unit and The Lox. Rappers Jaja Soze and Naja Soze were at the helm of the crew, contributing to the crew’s only release Pray Days Change. While it does contain rough points (i.e. the American mannerisms), it is one of the most influential drops in road rap.
Estelle, The 18th Day (2004)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop / R&B
One of the country’s most underrated exports is Estelle. She has worked with the likes of Kanye West, John Legend, will.i.am, Nas and Tyler, The Creator. Her debut album demonstrates her forgotten rap talents, taking a Miseducation approach in its segments of hip hop, R&B and neo-soul. Though it remains overlooked, The 18th Day rests as one of most diverse displays of talent the UK’s ever seen.
Kano, Home Sweet Home (2005)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop / Grime
If there is a quaternity of seminal UK rap albums, Kano’s Home Sweet Home has an indisputable spot. The sixteen-track debut encompasses every suitable subgenre to grant pure range. Hip hop, grime, rock rap, R&G, all make an appearance while preserving cohesion. Hits come in the form of “Ps & Qs” and “Brown Eyes”; the ever-satisfactory unity of Kano and Ghetts on “Ghetto Kid” and “Typical Me”; the deeper gems of “Sometimes”, “9 to 5” and “Signs in Life”. There’s something for everyone on Home Sweet Home.
Various Artists, Run the Road Vol. 1 (2005)
Format: Compilation
Genre: Grime
The Run the Road compilations are a forgotten series that have now been replaced by the This is UK Grime volumes. However, Run the Road was the compilation to start it all, showcasing some of the most legendary songs and emcees of all-time. Kano, Wiley, Dizzee Rascal, D Double E, No Lay, Shystie, and more have classic cuts that, given. the context of grime at the time, would have been industry co-signs. The compilation is difficult to find online, though most tracks can be found on solo albums.
Ruff Sqwad, Guns and Roses Vol. 1 (2005)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Peak grime is on full show on Ruff Sqwad’s debut mixtape, Guns and Roses Vol. 1. The crew consisted of names like Tinchy Stryder, Prince Rapid, Sir Spyro, XTC and Dirty Danger, altogether forming one of the most iconic grime collectives. Vol. 1 offers the best beats grime’s ever offered, relentless performances and a youthful unity never seen again.
Crazy Titch, Crazy Times Vol. 1 (2005)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
“I’m a microphone beast / Forget that guy, I’m the king of East / Crazy ten out of ten, at least / All my styles, MCs wanna feast”, is one of many supreme couplets that make up Crazy Titch’s debut mixtape. Mainly consisted of freestyles over prime 2000s beats and dub tracks towards Dizzee Rascal, Crazy Times Vol. 1 is one of the few relics existing for an iconic emcee who’s currently serving a life sentence. This tape shows what could’ve been.
Ghetts, 2000 & Life (2005)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime / Hip hop
The debut mixtape from a much-celebrated emcee. Formerly known as Ghetto, 2000 & Life was Ghetts’ introduction to the world, showcasing his versatility out the game with grime tracks and firey freestyles over American beats (DJ Premier, Dr. Dre, Scott Storch), a common practice throughout the decade. Ghetts would go on to deliver better projects than this, but 2000 & Life still earns its classic stamp.
Swiss, Pain N Muziq (2005)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Following the success with So Solid Crew, Swiss went solo and dropped Pain N Muziq, a quintessential representation of mid-2000s music. A myriad of beats make up the heartfelt album, whether it’s Kanye chipmunk soul, Harlem renegades, or Neptunes guitars. Even Bhangra makes an appearance. Swiss’ raps are instantaneous earworms, a vocal chameleon to whatever style is thrown at him. It’s hard to put a label on this one.
Devlin, Tales from the Crypt (2006)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Hip hop dominated the classics of the early 2000s, but the late 2000s were owned by the grime emcees. A 17-year-old Devlin released his debut mixtape, Tales from the Crypt, a cross between aggressive grime and horrorcore raps. Released in late October, it’s fully aware of its Halloween theme, riddled with the most menacing emceeing grime’s ever witnessed.
Mashtown, S.P.O.R.T.S. (2006)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Hip hop
Mashtown’s S.P.O.R.T.S. is a cult classic that mainly caused noise in East London, where its members Margs, Tricky, Hypo, Asco, T-Mac, Peanut and Papes resided. It is perhaps the biggest case of “If you know, you know” in this entire list. Hell, it doesn’t even have artwork, a recorded release date, or anywhere to stream it besides YouTube playlists. All those caveats aside, S.P.O.R.T.S took what PDC were doing with American beats and London-ified it to the max.
Sway, This is My Demo (2006)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Before Sway hit the charts with dubstep drops, he indulged in traditional hip hop. His debut album is not given its flowers in many circles, largely due to the ignorance of UK listeners with a narrow outlook. This is My Demo is emotive and transparent, coming off the back of a MOBO Award and leading to a Mercury Prize nomination and a BET Award for Best UK Act. Not bad for an album that’s underrated.
Akala, It’s Not a Rumour (2006)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Akala and Ms. Dynamite are the first pair of siblings to appear on the list. It’s clear talent runs in the family, with Akala flaunting his dizzying rhyme schemes on debut album, It’s Not a Rumour. Led mainly by rap rock production, the album is home to classic cuts “Shakespeare” and “Roll Wid Us”. Nowadays, Akala is a novelist and political speaker, but It’s Not a Rumour is stamped in history to prove what he’s capable of musically.
Wiley, Tunnel Vision Vol. 1 (2006)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
The first edition in Wiley’s classic Tunnel Vision series houses classic eskibeat instrumentals and vocal tracks such as “Crash Bandicoot”, “Bad Em Up” and “Stormy Weather”.
Plan B, Who Needs Actions When You Got Words (2006)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Dark and dreary, Plan B’s debut album is often audacious with its explicit subject matter, making full use of shock factor pioneered by Eminem’s early records. During the controversial raps, points are certainly made, such as on album opener “Kidz”. The acoustic guitars do get overbearing, but the storytelling and unique themes make Who Needs Actions… a pivotal record in a time where grime was on everyone’s Walkmans.
Newham Generals, Best of Newham Generals (2006)
Format: Compilation
Genre: Grime
D Double E and Footsie are two of the most renown emcees in grime. This debut mixtape compiles well-known freestyles with features from Wiley, Dizzee Rascal and more. It took till 2009 for the duo to release a debut album, but it’s the mixtape that prevails as their most memorable work.
The Movement, Tempo Specialists (2006)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Hip hop / Grime
The Movement was a short-lived supergroup conceived by Wretch 32, Devlin, Scorcher, Ghetts and Mercston. What a lineup. They struggled to stay consistent, but they did manage to deliver a sole project in Tempo Specialists, blending the best of both worlds from grime and hip hop.
Ruff Sqwad, Guns and Roses Vol. 2 (2006)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
The grime crew’s second mixtape is another demonstration of the genre in its prime, featuring classic songs such as “Xtra”, “War” and “Tell Me”.
Wiley, Da 2nd Phaze (2006)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Wiley’s amount of classics is another topic of debate. His second album emerged from his alliance with Boy Better Know, providing a rawer take on grime this time round.
Ghetts, Ghetto Gospel (2007)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Years later, Ghetts would clarify that Ghetto Gospel was meant to be his debut album, but confusion around marketing meant it was pushed as a mixtape. Once you dive into Ghetto Gospel, its album-quality material is clear as day; “Top 3 Selected”, “So Damn Dedicated”, “Hero”, “U & Me”, are just a few of the tape’s highlights. Ghetto Gospel can be defined as the best example of a polished grime classic, elite in every vital department.
Chipmunk, League of My Own (2007)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
16-year-old Chip (then known as Chipmunk) released a mixtape that would pit him as a child rap prodigy. Lead track “Who Are You?” is a top ten grime song, boasting the most quotable opening lines by any UK rapper. Razor-sharp lyricism continues across the entire tape, and was perhaps the last time we would see a a rapper of such an age sound years ahead of their time.
Skepta, Greatest Hits (2007)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
The flagbearer for UK rap is undeniably Skepta. His debut album is overlooked and audacious, named Greatest Hits to mark a great precedent. The title ended up ageing well, coming equipped with notable grime cuts like “I Spy” and “Duppy (Doin’ It Again)”. It also marked the emergence of Boy Better Know, an imprint and record label still living to this day.
Giggs & Dubz, Ard Bodied (2007)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Slow flows, thumping beats and legendary adlibs are the staples of Peckham’s Giggs and his partner-in-rhyme, Damien Dubz. Their collaborative mixtape, Ard Bodied, is widely celebrated, housing not one but two of the most acclaimed UK rap songs: “Talkin’ da Hardest” and “Pain is the Essence”. Other highlights with Kyze, Gunna Dee, Tiny Boost and Blade Brown show exactly why South London was running the scene at this stage in the decade.
Giggs & Blade Brown, Hollowman Meets Blade (2007)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Two South icons collided on the iconic Hollowman Meets Blade. The bars and beats call for screwfaces and the chemistry between Giggs and Blade Brown is second nature.
Roll Deep, Rules and Regulations (2007)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
When it comes to grime cliques, there was Ruff Sqwad, Meridian Crew, More Fire Crew, and Boy Better Know. But we can’t forget Roll Deep. Headlined by Wiley, the collective also included Flowdan, Scratchy, Manga, Breeze, and other short-lived stints from Dizzee, Tinchy and Skepta. Their second album Rules & Regulations is more pure, unfiltered grime that brought together the country’s finest emcees.
Tinchy Stryder, Star in the Hood (2007)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
On a mainstream stage, Tinchy Stryder is best known for his number one crossover hits. However, he put in the organic groundwork to get to that stage. His debut album Star in the Hood channels the spirit of Ruff Sqwad for timeless songs like “Perfect Timing”, “Xtra” and “Mainstream Money”. With production from DaVinChe, Prince Rapid, Maniac and Dirty Danger, Star in the Hood could never go wrong.
Tinie Tempah, Hood Economics – Room 147: The 80 Minute Course (2007)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Another rapper well known for his 2010s chart run, Tinie Tempah contributed to the gritty grime of 2007 with debut mixtape, Hood Economics. It contains significant cuts “Tears”, “Wifey”, and the title track.
Wiley, Playtime Is Over (2007)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Wiley topped up his ascent with a fourth successive classic. Though it wasn’t as successful as ’04’s Treddin on Thin Ice, there are far more highlights in place: “Gangsters”, “Bow E3”, the opener “50/50”, “Letter 2 Dizzee”, “My Mistakes”, and others. Playtime Is Over is a complete grime experience, finding Wiley at his most clinical.
M.I.A., Kala (2007)
Format: Album
Genre: Experimental
Like Estelle, M.I.A. is a female star who’s presence grew larger than the restrains of England. There were not many alternative choices in UK rap, so for those looking for a weird, experimental experience, M.I.A.’s Kala came right on time. It dared to be different while coming with a universal chart hit, “Paper Planes”. Kala remains the most critically-acclaimed album by a UK rapper, alongside Dizzee Rascal’s Boy in da Corner and The Streets’ Original Pirate Material.
Fliptrix, Force Fed Imagery (2007)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
We head back to the underground classics with Fliptrix’s debut record, Force Fed Imagery, a telescopic embrace of complex rhyme schemes and vocal clarity. This and subsequent albums set Fliptrix as one of the nation’s best lyricists, and the most consistent rapper in the underground.
Bashy, The Chupa Chups Mixtape (2008)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Hip hop
Now a successful Hollywood actor, Bashy can still brag a classic mixtape to his name. The Chupa Chups Mixtape finds the rapper spitting over prime East Coast beats while granting original songs like “Black Boys” and “London Underground”.
President T, Back Inna My Face (2008)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
President T came up as a member of Meridian Crew, his geezer intonations setting him as a unique voice in the grime scene. Debut mixtape Back Inna My Face is a grime tape with much personality and charisma.
Jme, Famous? (2008)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Boy Better Know’s Jme enters the picture to complete the second pair of siblings with a UK classic. His debut album hosts grime highlights “Serious”, “P”, “AWOH”, “Shh Hut Yuh Muh” and “Punch in the Face”. Jme’s humour set him apart from other grime emcees, which keeps him as the genre’s most beloved personality.
Devlin, The Art of Rolling (2008)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Devlin bagged two classic tapes by the age of nineteen. The Art of Rolling is arguably a cleaner effort, a lean 40-minute showcase of frantic raps, solidifying Devlin as a top ten UK lyricist.
Kano, 140 Grime St (2008)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
After the mixed reception to London Town, Kano went back to basics on 140 Grime St, ticking the box of having an all-grime album in his discography. Backed by Mikey J, DaVinche and Wiley production, Kano’s never sounded so hungry.
Giggs, Walk in da Park (2008)
Format: Album
Genre: Road rap
Beloved by many avid UK rap fans, Giggs’ debut album established him as the road rap kingpin. It arguably has the genre’s best opening run, (“B.B.T.”, “Uummm!!”, “Open Up”), brought original beats to road rap courtesy of Bayoz Muzik and Boom Productions, and aged much better than a lot of the genre’s offerings.
Ghetts, Freedom of Speech (2008)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Ghetts continued his hot run with Freedom of Speech, his most aggressive effort as heard in songs like “Buss 1”, “The Ghetto” and “Threats”. But there is also storytelling tracks like “Convo with a Cabbie” that show Ghetts has always been more than flows over substance.
K Koke, Pure Koke, Vol. 1 (2009)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
North West London showed they meant business with the introduction of USG and K Koke. Pure Koke, Vol. 1 is an all-timer tape, beloved by all those familiar with the road rap genre. Tracks like “My Deepest Thoughts” and the anti-snitch anthem “Are You Alone Fam?” showed what K Koke was all about, which led to signing with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation.
Krept & Konan, Redrum Vol. 1 (2009)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Rap duo Krept & Konan established themselves as punchline kings with their debut mixtape, Redrum, predicting their takeover of the game across operatic rap beats.
Lowkey, Dear Listener (2009)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
After his Key to the Game mixtape series came Lowkey’s debut album, Dear Listener, an album that filled in the missing voice for conscious rap. Renown in the underground, Lowkey flexes his lyricism through tracks like “Alphabet Assassin” and “I’m Back”, while reflecting on humane topics in “Everything Must Change” and “In My Lifetime” with Wretch 32.
P Money, Money Over Everyone (2009)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
P Money pioneered the combination of grime with electronic music, a staple sound on his third mixtape, Money Over Everyone.
Skepta, Microphone Champion (2009)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Skepta’s second album indulges in his playful take on grime, bringing the humour in tunes like “Oh My Gosh” and the classic “Too Many Man”. It houses some of the rapper’s best songs to date, including but not limited to “Gingerbread Man”, “Madness”, and one of the greatest UK collaborations, “Look Out” with Giggs.
Big H, Street Crime UK (2009)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Grime
Meridian Crew’s Big H does the impossible by emplying a calm delivery over grime beats on his debut mixtape, adding a unique touch to a typically frantic genre.
Rhyme Asylum, State of Lunacy (2009)
Format: Album
Genre: Brithop
Obscure hip hop crew Rhyme Asylum are relatively unknown to the masses, but are widely celebrated in the underground. Their debut album is an intense take on horrorcore, built off a style that’s an acquired taste.
Roll Deep, Street Anthems (2009)
Format: Compilation
Genre: Grime
Roll Deep wisely compiled their best hits onto one project, leaving a place for new listeners to easily discover hits like “Badman”, “Eskimo” and “Shake a Leg”.
Joe Black & Page, The Black Page (2009)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
A forgotten North London duo, Joe Black and Page are another case of “If you know, you know”. Their mixtape The Black Page made waves across the area, fuelling North London’s case for birthing the most potent rappers.
Youngs Teflon, Call of Duty (2010)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
The new decade saw road rap taken to new heights. South Londoner Youngs Teflon led the charge with his blend of traditional hip hop and gangsta rap, showcased most firmly on his 2010 mixtape, Call of Duty.
Blade Brown, Bags and Boxes (2010)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Trap
Blade Brown affirmed the trap revolution will be televised. The broadcast began with the first mixtape in his Bags and Boxes series, one of the most celebrated collections. The first volume ushered in pure trap music, bringing vivid rap lines to verify Blade’s cellular trap lines.
Fliptrix, Theory of Rhyme (2010)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Fliptrix continued his impeccable rap form on Theory of Rhyme, refining his songwriting for catchy cuts like “Graffiti Won’t Die”, “Monday to Sunday” and “Turn of Phrase”. Though it would take years for it to be granted an underground classic, the quality of the album shows it was always destined to be one.
Krept & Konan, Tsunami (2010)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Krept & Konan levelled up on their second mixtape, bragging features from heavyweights Ghetts, Giggs, Scorcher and Wretch 32, and strategically working with rappers buzzing at the same time (Youngs Teflon, Blade Brown). The punchlines were tripled while maintaining the dramatic production from Redrum.
Lowkey, Soundtrack to the Struggle (2011)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Lowkey has plenty to say on his sophomore album, Soundtrack to the Struggle. Tender and mature in sound and content, it has earned status as a hip hop classic, delving into the political shortcomings of the world and its shady corporations through vivid lyricism and pure passion. Elements of boom bap, soul and classical music are incorporated alongside rich samples, showing how far ahead its production was compared to the rest of the UK scene. It is an album full of heart, full of sincerity, and above all, full of humanity.
Joe Black, Realionaire (2011)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Realionaire is Joe Black’s signature mixtape, providing his cleanest production value and songwriting. He proves he’s a student of the game, rapping over aptly chosen beats for highlights “Live My Life”, “DTA Interlude” and “Black Wholaguns”.
J Spades, More Money More Pagans 2 (2011)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Trap
Trap continued to boom in the early 2010s through J Spade’s MMMP series. He brought Auto-Tuned raps to the nation, reaching his peak on the second tape. Guest appearances are stacked with verses from Waka Flocka Flame, Tinchy Stryder, Chip, Joe Black, Youngs Teflon, Margs and Blade Brown.
Benny Banks, Patiently Waiting, Vol. 1 (2011)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Benny Banks has classic freestyles to his name, but he also showed he can curate a cohesive project. Patiently Waiting, Vol. 1 holds seventeen tracks with production from Show N Prove and Westy. Banks gets straight to the point, rapping about bigger dreams away from the trap life.
Jehst, The Dragon of an Ordinary Family (2011)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Jehst’s iconic catalogue stretches from the noughties to the 2010s, maintaining his slick lyricism and boom bap beats on The Dragon of an Ordinary Family.
Blade Brown, Financial Times (2011)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Blade Brown kept it strictly business on the iconic Financial Times, continuing his boastful bars over booming trap beats, leading to highlights such as “Don’t You Ever Go”, “In Your Dreams” and “Not Laughing”.
Sneakbo, Jetski Wave (2011)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Sneakbo can take plenty credit for pioneering a new stem of road rap, one that involved rapping over dancehall beats. Jetski Wave triggers peak nostalgia, holding all-time classics “Wave Like Us”, “Touch Ah Button” and the title track. The whole Jetski brand that came attached to the tape felt like a national movement, making all the way to Drake’s radar, verifying Jetski Wave as a mixtape with endless influence.
Nines, From Church Rd to Hollywood (2012)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
At the pinnacle of classic mixtapes is Nines’ debut offering. From Church Rd to Hollywood is adored by rap fans across the country, establishing one of the greatest exports out of North West London. Nines’ settled flow, wordplay and catchy hooks are why songs like “CR”, “AJ’D Out” and “Metallic Black” will always be recited word for word, bar for bar.
Ruff Sqwad, White Label Classics (2012)
Format: Compilation
Genre: Grime
Ruff Sqwad’s Guns and Roses are unavailable on streaming. But there is White Label Classics, a compilation of the crew’s best instrumentals, produced by Dirty Danger, Prince Rapid, XTC and Slix. Beat tapes never became common in the UK, so White Label Classics is a unique project, equivalent to high-profile instrumental albums like J Dilla’s Donuts and DJ Shadow’s Entroducing.
Plan B, Ill Manors (2012)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
In 2012, Plan B pivoted to the film industry, writing and directing the cult classic Ill Manors. Along with the film came a conceptual soundtrack of the same name, detailing the lives of the characters and events of the film. The album was critically-acclaimed, nominated for the Mercury Prize and became Plan B’s second number one record. Even without watching the film, Ill Manors is a vivid album filled with chilling despair.
Rimzee, The Upper Clapton Dream (2012)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Rimzee tackles beats from Common, Jeezy, Rick Ross and more on The Upper Clapton Dream, laying reflective raps that have always been the appeal of road rap. Since coming home from his six-year prison stint, Rimzee’s become an independent charting rapper. The Upper Clapton Dream is where it all began.
Blade Brown, Bags and Boxes 2 (2012)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Trap
The second Bags and Boxes is loaded with Blade Brown’s distinct one-liners and tracks that were ahead of their time (“Life of Mine”, “30K”). Just like its predecessor, Blade was using a working formula that wouldn’t fail anytime soon.
Potter Payper, Training Day (2013)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
The come-up of Potter Payper has been another tale of trials and tribulations. Training Day put on a rapper with the lyrical talent and street credentials to match, taking beats by Kanye West, Mac Miller and The Weeknd and owning them like Lil Wayne did back in the day. Songs like “Too Much Years”, “Hustlin”, “Purple Rain”, “Ghetto Karaoke” and “Longtime” contribute to not just a classic mixtape, but a tape regarded as one of the best, if not the best.
Squeeks, Presidential Musiq (2013)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Squeeks piles a colossal 40 tracks into the two-hour Presidential Musiq, a mega-tape of material from the North London rapper. Sure, it may be near impossible to run it front to back, but there is more than enough bangers that led to its high status. Tunes like “Two”, “Break It Down”, “Lights”, “To the Top” and “Speedin” spotlight Squeeks’ digestible rapping, elite beat picking, and infectious adlibs.
Nines, Gone Till November (2013)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Released while Nines was incarcerated, Gone Till November kept his name hot in the streets. On first glance, it’s a loosely cobbled collection. But on closer inspection, it tightly hosts Nines’ greatest songs. “The Maze”, “Handle It, Pt. 2”, “Certified North West G”, “Penny for My Thoughts” and “Tap Dat” all make up an outstanding effort that’s transcended cult classic status.
Squeeks, Totally Presidential (2013)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Totally Presidential sounds and feels like a debut album. It has the production value and structure expected from someone putting their best foot forward. With North London wizard Westy in his production corner, Squeeks delivers above and beyond.
Skrapz, 80’s Baby (2014)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Hip hop
80’s Baby represents the camp of UK listeners who don’t realise they like traditional hip hop. This mixtape covers classic hip hop and R&B hits that Skrapz grew up on, ranging from Usher to Mobb Deep and Fugees songs. He even repurposes The Notorious B.I.G.’s “One More Chance”, and—if you ask any avid UK rap fan—is the better rendition.
Section Boyz, Sectionly (2014)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Trap
Rap crew Section Boyz emerged as the pioneers of trap for the second half of the 2010s, and what would eventually evolve into UK drill. Sectionly gifted rap anthems like “Come Again” and “Delete My Number”, led by hookmaster Swift and flow floaters Sleeks, Inch, Deepee, Littlez, Knine and Reeko Squeeze.
English Frank, Listen to Frank (2014)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Hip hop
The madman known as English Frank was a hell of a rapper. Known as the UK DMX, he gifted plenty impact in a short period of time before leaving the scene. Listen to Frank married horrorcore with conscious rap, resulting in deep cuts like “In a Minute” and “100 Bars of Truth”. There is also classic posse cuts like “Southside Connection”, bringing together a dozen South London emcees for a clinical moment.
Blade Brown, Bags and Boxes 3 (2014)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
The Bags and Boxes series is a cheat code towards a classic. All three instalments are constantly praised, and every Blade fan has their favourite. But BXB3 may objectively be the most iconic, with its show-stopping “Intro” and features from Skepta, Skrapz and Youngs Teflon.
Youngs Teflon, Renaissance (2014)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Before Beyoncé gave a Renaissance, there was Youngs Teflon’s. Allegedly promoted as his debut album, Renaissance possesses all the qualities of a studio effort. It’s why Renaissance presents a great case for being Teflon’s best project, impressing with timeless records like “Django”, “Boy King”, “Your Lies”, “Rebellious” and Ghetto Heaven”.
Skrapz, Skrapz is Back Part II (2014)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Skrapz’s clean cadence is littered across Skrapz is Back 2, displaying how to perfect a flow that slots seamlessly into pockets of the beat. Highlights from this one include “No Introduction”, “Mission Impossible”, “Well Connected”, “Letter to My Fans” and “Shouldn’t Be Alone”.
Mover, Everybody Hates Muni (2014)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
The influential Mover made a splash with tracks like “Ringtone”, “Weed Pack” and “Light Not Blue”, all which land on Everybody Hates Muni. It may be more of a cult classic, but the influence runs deep, from the lyrics to the development of afroswing, Mover was able to rap about the raps and provide the long songs.
Section Boyz, Don’t Panic (2015)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Trap
Don’t Panic came when Section Boyz were top of the rap game, home of hits like “Lock Arf”, “Trophy” and “Who Needs a Hook?” Such chemistry between a rap crew has never been seen in the scene since.
67, In Skengs We Trust (2015)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
Finally, UK drill enters the picture. This list has chronologically painted the trends of UK rap, beginning with golden age hip hop before moving onto grime and road rap. What succeeded those movements was UK drill, pioneered by Brixton crew 67. LD, Dimzy, Monkey, ASAP and Liquez took what Chicago were doing and made it their own, collaborating with producer Carns Hill on what is arguably the most pivotal UK drill project.
Jme, Integrity (2015)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Grime classics run thin in the 2010s, although Jme’s Integrity shows that grime will always rule supreme when executed right. Integrity saw Jme enter a second prime, flexing a three-year rollout through singles like “96 F**kries”, “Taking Over” and the much-quoted “Man Don’t Care” with Giggs.
J Hus, The 15th Day (2015)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Afroswing
Sweet melodies are J Hus’ forté on his debut mixtape, The 15th Day. The Stratford rapper changed the game by refining the new afroswing sound flooding the city. It led to a legendary rise fuelled by songs like “No Lie”, “Dem Boy Paigon” and “Shawty Inda Bando”. Equipped with humour and personality for days, J Hus was providing something different that would only grow larger from here.
Nines, One Foot In (2015)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
At this point, Nines had already mastered the art of a mixtape. But he still have more to give. One Foot In would be his last mixtape before the rapper transitioned to studio albums, filled with endless heaters and renown singles like “Yay” and “Can’t Blame Me”.
Skepta, Konnichiwa (2016)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
One underground psychosis later, and Skepta was back. A deep identity crisis saw Skepta revert to his roots, going independent to lead the resurgence of grime. Konnichiwa hosts the best grime singles of the decade, also backed by deeper album tracks with features from Novelist, Boy Better Know and Wiley. Unlike many UK classics that have their status heightened by influence, Konnichiwa has the success, influence, cohesion and quality that checks all the boxes for a complete classic album.
Reekz MB, Right & Wrong (2016)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
Reekz MB is another drill pioneer southside of the river. His mixtape Right & Wrong houses “Blueprint”, one of the greatest drill tracks of all time, and further highlights “No Face”, “23” and “No Chat Just Violence”.
67, Let’s Lurk (2016)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
67 continued to supply the drill hits. Their mixtape Let’s Lurk hosts their best run of songs, including “5AM Vamping”, “No Hook”, “44s in a 4 Door”, “Let’s Lurk” with Giggs, the solo LD cut “Church” and “Traumatized”. If you ask us, this is drill music at its finest.
Kano, Made in the Manor (2016)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
An argument can be made that Kano’s got better throughout his career. Even if you’re on the other side, he’s certainly matured with every release. His 2016 album Made in the Manor came after a six-year hiatus, returning in style that earned critical acclaim, a Mercury Prize nomation, and his highest-charting album to date. There’s nothing like t-shirt weather in the manor, my friend.
Potter Payper, Training Day 2 (2016)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Road rap
Released while serving a five-year sentence, the highly-anticipated Training Day 2 lived up to potential, offering more of the gritty street raps that earned Potter’s notoriety. Offering a reflective take on most of the tracks, there’s never a moment where the rapper doesn’t sound hungry.
Wiley, Godfather (2017)
Format: Album
Genre: Grime
Grime’s selective moments continued with Wiley’s Godfather. After reigning charts with summer pop hits, Wiley zoned into pure grime for his best album since 2007’s Playtime is Over. The critically-acclaimed record charted in the top ten without the need of a hit single, a deserving reward for a special album responsible for Wiley’s second prime.
K-Trap, The Last Whip (2017)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
K-Trap outshined his drill peers with his debut mixtape, The Last Whip, carrying tracks like “Paper Plans”, “No Hook”, “Just Cos I Rap” and “No Convo”. Trapo’s raw and direct lyrics is what set him apart, always finding a way to impress the listener over fifteen tracks.
Headie One & RV, Drillers x Trappers (2017)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
One of drill’s favourite partnerships are responsible for the intense Drillers x Trappers, keeping the tempo high with booming drill beats and impeccable chemistry on the mic.
J Hus, Common Sense (2017)
Format: Album
Genre: Afroswing
If there’s any album that walks with its chest pumped high, it’s Common Sense. The debut album established J Hus as the nation’s favourite elusive figure, delivering the soundtrack for a thousand summers with tracks like “Bouff Daddy”, “Did You See”, “Fisherman”, the title track and “Friendly”.
Skengdo & AM, 2 Bunny (2017)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
Skengdo & AM got straight to the point with their influential breakout tape. At just ten tracks and a 34-minute runtime, 2 Bunny is a clinical lesson in how to individualise drill music. Deep vocals, creative adlibs and original flows are staples of what make 2 Bunny a classic drill mixtape.
Headie One, The One (2018)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
The One established Headie One as a drill star, supplying classic tunes “Know Better” and “Golden Boot”. Headie cultivates staples of what every drill fan would go to him for, adding his own spin to flows and adlibs while singing as well, something no other drill rapper dared to try at the time.
CB, A Drillers Perspective (2019)
Format: Mixtape
Genre: Drill
CB is one of the most candid rappers in drill. It’s why songs like “Take That Risk”, “The Things” and “Still Wavin” made their mark, establishing CB as a walking hazard with no filter. A Drillers Perspective is highly celebrated in drill communities for that very reason.
Little Simz, Grey Area (2019)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
After years of groundwork, Little Simz fulfilled her potential with her third studio album. The ten-track package is all killer, no filler, cramming in assorted production choices that cover all possible moods. Simz assures you leave with the impression that she’s a menace on the mic, with the musical touch of someone reaching for novel heights.
Dave, Psychodrama (2019)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Psychodrama earned instant access to the echelon of UK rap albums. Dave takes 11 tracks to magnify his life story with conviction and focus, fulfilling the potential exhibited on early EPs. The album conceptualises tracks as responses to a psychotherapist, encouraging Dave to open up about his traumas through compelling storytelling and vulnerable confessions. Its quality was rewarded with a Mercury Prize and a number one debut on the charts, setting the stage for the Britain’s wonderkid takeover.
J Hus, Big Conspiracy (2020)
Format: Album
Genre: Afroswing
The unpredictable J Hus announced his sophomore album a day before release. What followed was critical acclaim and a number one debut. Big Conspiracy strips back the insolence of Common Sense, developing Hus’ production choices while improving his lyricism and songwriting. It is tight, wise and trustworthy, solidifying J Hus as one of the best exports of UK Rap.
Potter Payper, Training Day 3 (2020)
Format: Album
Genre: Road rap
Training Day 3 was a reset for Potter Payper’s career. The rapper returned home from his prison stint and got straight to work, releasing the iconic trilogy three months later. The infamous ‘instant classic’ term loomed over it, but the hype was justified. Clean beats, range in tempos and once again, that fire in the belly, is what makes Training Day 3 another special release by the East London rapper.
Little Simz, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert (2021)
Format: Album
Genre: Hip hop
Bold in sound and brave in admission, Little Simz’s fourth album is a dreamy musical that crowned the rapper as the most talented of her class. Palatial strings, choirs and orchestras are recruited across SIMBI, unlocking a level of production never seen in UK Rap. Her verses are like pages in a diary, fixated in revealing all on tracks such as “Introvert”, “I Love You, I Hate You” and “Miss Understood”. The quality is backed by critical acclaim, a Mercury Prize, and a placement on Rolling Stone’s Greatest Hip Hop Albums of All Time.
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Mic Cheque 