2022 has been a year full of new music albums. 

With the year coming to an end, it’s time we reflect on the best albums that have been released.

May 13, 2022, Kendrick Lamar released Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers. The album consists of 18 songs reflecting on his life experiences through his therapy journey. Zak Kornetti, senior, stated, “I’ve been able to listen to the album since it was released.” Many students at Lake Shore also agree. 

November 4, 2022, Drake and 21 Savage released Her Loss. This 16 track album managed to get all 16 tracks into the top 40 in the Billboard Hot 100. According to Washington Square News, this album had themes of money, misogyny, and the music industry. The first week of its release the album had made nearly half a million dollars. Top songs included “***** & Millions”, “Major Distribution” and “Rich Flex”. Walter Larkin-Tramble, junior, said “My favorite song on the album was ‘On BS’ and I believe it is definitely a contender for album of the year.”

July 8, 2022, Brent Faiyaz released Wasteland. Brent released one of his longest albums being 64 minutes long with 19 tracks. Including features from other artists like Alicia Keys, Drake and Tyler the Creator. While there are many opinions online about what the theme of the album may be, many interviewed students at Lake Shore believe it was about needing to escape the demands of the music industry and fame. 

May 20, 2022, Harry Styles released Harry’s House. This 13-song album has been considered one of his most Introspective works. Faith Lowry, senior, said “I think this album’s theme was experiences that we go through in life, in no particular order because I think all the songs can be relatable to others throughout life.” 

Shelby Morpus, senior, said the album gives a comfort aspect to those that may use music to cope with situations they may be in. “Cinema” and “Matilda” are viewed as the best songs on the album. 

July 9, 2022, Beyoncé released Renaissance. Her 16 track album was her seventh solo studio album since 2016’s Lemonade. “Creating this album allowed me a place to dream and find escape during a scary time for the world,” Beyoncé said in Renaissance’s liner notes. 

Heath Council, senior, said, “ I would recommend this album to a lot of people because it’s a good way to listen to a lot of positive things but also social issues going on in a way that isn’t boring.” 

Wrapping it all up, a number one album can’t be truly chosen since everyone has different opinions and perceives music differently. The instruments, lyrics, genre, and how you feel from it all starts with you. That’s what makes music so special. There’s room for everyone and everything. 

Honorable mentions for other albums include:

Unlimited Love – Chili Peppers and John Frusciante 

S.O.S – SZA

Give or Take – Giveon

It’s Almost Dry – Pusha T

Beautiful Mind – Rod Wave

Bin Reaper 3: Old Testament – Babytron

Anyways, Life’s Great… – GloRilla

Midnights – Taylor Swift

7220 – Lil Durk