This year is expected to bring album releases from veteran stars as well as heavy-hitting up-and-comers. From smooth soul joints from Maxwell and D’Angelo to rugged rap releases by A$AP Rocky, Earl Sweatshirt and more, check out the 10 albums we’re most eagerly awaiting in 2013.
A$AP Rocky: ‘Long.Live.A$AP’ (Jan. 15)
The 2011 mixtape Live.Love.A$AP, featuring the hypnotic hit “Peso,” was practically heralded as a debut album. But this release will be the first proper studio album from the much-hyped Harlem rapper with the Southern swagger. It already has critics declaring its”great sequel” status because it features coldhearted anthems such as the album’s title track and the haunting minimalism of “Suddenly.” Look for cameos from the likes of Santigold, Schoolboy Q, Drake, Kendrick Lamar and 2 Chainz.
Maxwell: ‘Summers’ (TBD)
Maxwell appears to be ready to release the follow-up to 2009’s BLACKsummers’ Night this year, the second of a three-album trilogy of tunes. On Jan. 3 he tweeted out a partial track listing of seven songs with titles like “Beware of Smiles,” “Hostage” and “Gods.” Still not convinced? You can listen to a snippet of “Gods” on his Facebook page.
Beyoncé: Untitled (TBD)
While there has yet to be an announcement about a title or a release date for Mrs. Carter’s fifth solo album, the speculation as to what it will be like has already started. Studying her Tumblr as well as interviews from producers who have talked about working with her, MTV has guessed that it could feature the likes of The-Dream, Miguel, Justin Timberlake and even hubby Jay-Z.
