January 2025’s Best New Albums
BY wiiiwalk
january 28, 2025
As the calendar turns to 2025, the music world wastes no time in delivering an impressive array of albums across genres. January’s releases set the tone for an exciting year, with established icons and rising stars alike offering something fresh for fans. From chart-topping pop to introspective hip-hop, here’s a look at the albums making waves this month
The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow
Release Date: January 24, 2025
The Weeknd brings his highly anticipated trilogy to a close with Hurry Up Tomorrow, following After Hours (2020) and Dawn FM (2022). A sonic exploration of love, fame, and mortality, this album solidifies The Weeknd’s place as a master of atmospheric storytelling. Collaborators Pharrell Williams, Mike Dean, Anitta, and Playboi Carti contribute their unique artistry, with the latter’s appearance on the lead single “Timeless” generating significant buzz. Adding to the excitement, a companion film of the same name is slated for release in May 2025, promising to expand the album’s immersive narrative univers
Central Cee – Can’t Rush Greatness
Release Date: January 24, 2025
British rapper Central Cee delivers his debut studio album, Can’t Rush Greatness, cementing his position as one of the UK’s most promising talents. Fresh off the success of “BAND4BAND,” his collaboration with Lil Baby, this album underscores his lyrical dexterity and unique storytelling. While the official tracklist remains a mystery, fans can expect an eclectic mix of hard-hitting anthems and introspective tracks. Central Cee’s rise has been meteoric, and this album promises to be a defining moment in his career.
Mac Miller – Balloonerism
Release Date: January 17, 2025
The late Mac Miller’s second posthumous release, Balloonerism, offers a poignant look into his creative journey. Recorded between 2013 and 2014 during his Faces era, the album brims with experimental beats and introspective lyricism. His estate describes Balloonerism as a project Mac deeply believed in and wanted the world to hear. For fans, it’s not just an album; it’s a celebration of his enduring legacy and a reminder of his profound impact on hip-hop.
Lil Baby – WHAM (Who Hard as Me)
Release Date: January 3, 2025
Lil Baby kicks off the year with WHAM, the fourth and final installment in his celebrated “Hard” series. Featuring collaborations with Future, Young Thug, Travis Scott, and 21 Savage, the album showcases Lil Baby’s lyrical growth and undeniable charisma. Tracks like “Set the Tone” and “Out the Mud” reflect on his journey from humble beginnings to rap superstardom. With WHAM, Lil Baby cements his status as a dominant force in contemporary hip-hop.
BigXthaPlug – Take Care
Release Date: January 10, 2025
Dallas rapper BigXthaPlug delivers his highly anticipated project, Take Care, blending Southern rap traditions with modern influences. Known for his powerful delivery and raw storytelling, BigXthaPlug’s latest album explores themes of resilience, family, and self-care. With standout tracks like “Heavy Crown” and “Down South,” Take Care is poised to solidify his growing influence in the rap game. Fans of authentic, heartfelt hip-hop will find much to love in this release.
These January releases highlight the diversity and dynamism of today’s music scene. Whether you’re drawn to The Weeknd’s cinematic soundscapes, Central Cee’s gritty lyricism, Mac Miller’s emotional depth, Lil Baby’s polished anthems, or BigXthaPlug’s Southern swagger, there’s something for everyone. As the year unfolds, these albums promise to provide the soundtrack to countless moments, setting a high bar for what’s to come. Happy listening!
more to read
