Although 2010 isn't over quite yet with a few big releases expected before the new year (Kanye West's "Good A** Job," "My Beautiful, Dark, Twisted Fantasy," and also a full album with Jay-Z) I thought I could do a round up of the top Hip Hop albums so far.

10) Lil' Wayne - I am Not a Human Being:

What year would be complete without a release from the prolific Lil' Wayne? While I'm not a big fan of Weezy's new stuff (this album included), I have to respect the following that he has established for himself. His work ethic, releasing a new mixtape practically every week it seems, is a lesson for all rappers trying to break into the game-the more you put yourself out there, the greater your returns.

9) Rick Ross - Teflon Don:

Another big release this past summer was Rick Ross' Teflon Don. Yet another album that, though it may not be his best, is worth noting for its effect on the Hip Hop world. Two tracks by producer Lex Lugar made the final album and started a scramble to get this young producer's sound on all new Trap albums

8) Chiddy Bang - The Preview:

A new name on the Hip Hop charts this year, Chiddy Bang broke onto the scene with their track "Opposite of Adults." Chalk this up as another rap album for college kids as the tracks have widespread appeal for casual rap fans. A feature by Q-Tip on an electro, 8-bit track gives this album some street cred as well.

7) Big Boi - Sir Lucious Left Foot:

As half of Outkast, you know that any album that Big Boi releases is going to be pushing the boundaries of the genre. However, once again, Big Boi accomplishes this while staying true to the roots of the genre and creating catchy tunes throughout.

6) 9th Wonder - It's a Wonderful World Music Group, Vol 1:

Legendary producer 9th Wonder has just released a compilation album with features from Skyzoo, Actual Proof and 9th himself. As you would expect, the album is chock full of real hip hop music, bangin' beats, and tight rhymes.

5) Nas and Damian Marley - Distant Relatives:

In my opinion, one of the best collaboration albums in Hip Hop history, this album is a journey through both Hip Hop and Reggae. Organic and creative beats, catchy hooks, and undoubtedly well-written rhymes make this album an instant classic.

4) Celph Titled and Buckwild - Nineteen Ninety Now:

Like 9th Wonder, Buckwild is one of those legends of Hip Hop production. So when he releases an album, real Hip Hop heads pay attention. His latest release with Celph Titled is true to form. Conscious rhymes over hard drums, back by well-flipped samples.

3) B.O.B. - The Adventures of Bobby Ray (Deluxe):

"Nothin On You," "Magic," "Past My Shades," and "Airplanes." Need I say more? With some of the best tracks of 2010, no list would be complete without BOB.

2) Eminem - Recovery:

Finally, a good album from Eminem post breakdown. This album brings us back to the days of old. Eminem's flow is on point as always, but the rhymes are once again talking about stuff that matters, while the hooks are still catchy.

1) Drake - Thank Me Later:

It's not every year that one of the most innovative Hip Hop albums is also one of the most commercially successful. Rapper/singer Drake's Thank Me Later is one of those rare occurrences. With a majority of the beat's produced by fellow Canadian Noah "40" Shebib, the sound was both unique and catchy. And Drake's clever one liners and catchy hooks were the perfect compliment.

About the Author

Sam owns and maintains GimmeThatTrack where you can download rap beats.