The Best Rap Verses of 2021
Who had the best rap verse of 2021? From Nicki Minaj's "Fractions" to André 3000's "Life of the Party" verse, we rank the 40 best rap verses of the year.
Rap Fandom Was Complicated in 2021
There were many great things that happened in the rap world in 2021, but death, tragedy, harmful stigmas, & other issues made it a complicated year to be a fan.
Is Jay-Z Really Unbeatable in a 'Verzuz' Battle?
Can anyone stand on a 'Verzuz' stage with Jay-Z? Who is his biggest competition? Would Lil Wayne beat him? Will Jay ever actually participate? We debate.
The New Juice WRLD Documentary Is a Candid Look at a Brilliant, Troubled Artist
The new HBO documentary 'Juice WRLD: Into The Abyss' gives a glimpse of a very talented artist who helped many heal, but couldn’t always do so himself.
The Best Songs of 2021
The Complex Music staff ranks the 50 best songs of 2021, including Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar's "Family Ties," Doja Cat and SZA's "Kiss Me More" and more.
Nardo Wick Would Like to Introduce Himself
Nardo Wick has one of 2021's most explosive songs, and co-signs from the world's biggest rappers. Now, he'd like to introduce himself with 'Who Is Nardo Wick?'
What Does ‘Underground Rap’ Mean Today?
The meaning of “underground rap” has changed over the years. This is the story of underground hip-hop’s evolution, and the shifting meaning of the term.
The Best Albums of 2021
Here are Complex's picks for the best albums of 2021, ranging from Hip-Hop and R&B to Pop. Find out which if your favorite project is the top album of the year.
Virgil Abloh Was a Powerful Bridge Between Rap and Luxury Fashion
Virgil Abloh didn’t just celebrate rap from afar, but amidst its creators. He was the rare high fashion designer who loved hip-hop as much as hip-hop loved him.
The 20 Best Rappers in Their 20s Right Now
From Lil Baby to Lil Durk to Cardi B to Lil Uzi Vert, rappers in their 20s are making some of hip-hop's best and most impactful songs. We ranked the best.
How the New DMX Documentary Reveals the Many Layers of Earl Simmons
We spoke with Chris Frierson, director of the new HBO documentary ‘Don’t Try To Understand,’ about spending a year with the late rap icon DMX.
The Drill Rap Episode of ‘Law & Order’ Is Full of Stereotypes and Propaganda
Opinion: ‘Law & Order: SVU’ depicted the New York drill scene in a new episode, and it’s full of harmful anti-rap stereotypes and propaganda.
Drake and Kanye Squashed Their Beef. What's Next?
We react to the photo of Kanye West and Drake squashing their beef and speculate about what’s coming next. What ultimately brought them together? Will it last?
Kendrick Lamar Returns to the Stage in Vegas
Kendrick Lamar returned to the stage for a headlining performance at Day N Vegas festival on Friday night. We were there. Here’s everything that happened.
‘There Were People All Around Me Screaming’: Firsthand Accounts of the Astroworld Tragedy
Attendees share firsthand accounts of the tragedy at Travis Scott's Astroworld Festival 2021. They cite stories of overcrowding and panic at the Houston event.
The Best and Worst Parts of Rolling Loud New York 2021
We spent three days at Rolling Loud New York 2021. Here’s what we thought of the festival: the best performances, the biggest surprises, and overall impressions
Inside the New Life of Music Publicists in an Era of Social Media Backlash
What is it really like to be a music publicist in the social media era, where backlash can happen fast? We spoke with PR professionals about how they navigate.
How a Federal Initiative Is Fueling the Criminalization of Rap
Here's a look into the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which has taken advantage of the criminalization of rap by weaponizing lyrics and videos.
Griselda’s New Signee Rome Streetz Is Out to Spit ‘Master-Level Rap’
New York City rapper Rome Streetz speaks with Complex about his winding career, signing to Griselda, channeling a '90s feel, and staying true to his craft.
First Impressions of Young Thug's New Album 'Punk'
Young Thug's new album 'Punk' has arrived. What's the best song? Biggest skip? Best part about the album? Here's our first impressions review.