6 Albums from Early 2025 You Might’ve Missed

Mar 12

2024 set a high bar as arguably the best year in music this decade. Now, as anticipation builds around which big artists will finally drop (or not) in 2025, it’s easy to overlook some incredible releases that have already set the tone for the year. With huge album releases this year from names like Bad Bunny, The Weeknd and Drake dominating the charts, plenty of gems beyond the big headlines still deserve your attention. Here are a few albums that might’ve flown under your radar— but are definitely worth checking out.

LOVE.JONES by THEY.

Absolutely no skips. At just 26 minutes, this album is intentional and to the point— just good R&B music. LOVE.JONES leans into the essence of classic R&B and neo-soul with a modern twist, with some tracks feeling like they could’ve dropped decades ago while still carrying a sound built to last. It captures the kind of emotion and timeless energy that keeps you coming back. This will be in my rotation for a while.

Highlights: Choosin’, *5 STAR*, Can’t Let Go

Jupiter by Nao

What a stunning album to ring in the new year. Jupiter is a celebration of growth and joy, with each track radiating warmth and a sense of renewal. The album is filled with multidimensional songs that showcase Nao’s gentle yet emotive vocals, making for a listening experience that feels both uplifting and deeply resonant.

Highlights: Elevate, Happy People, We All Win

WONDERLOVE by Chase Shakur

If you’re looking for the feeling of listening to Tory Lanez in 2025 without actually listening to Tory Lanez, Chase Shakur delivers just that with his debut album. This project effortlessly floats between R&B and pop, with hidden influences scattered throughout like house and trap. Moody yet smooth, it’s an easy listen without fading into background noise.

Highlights: FACE IT, FAIRYTALES IN MIDTOWN, CAN’T BLOCK DA SUN

It’s Franky baby! by Young Franco

It's hard to call this strictly a 2025 release, as most of the album’s songs have already been released as singles, with some coming out as early as 2020. But that doesn’t take away from its impact– right now, this project is pure sunshine, slowly defrosting in time for summer. With features from artists like Denzel Curry and EARTHGANG, It’s Franky Baby! is a vibrant, feel-good listen packed front to back with groove and funk.

Highlights: Lose Control, Fallin’ Apart

Showbiz! by MIKE

If you’re drawn to raw, unfiltered storytelling wrapped in rich, sample-heavy beats, Showbiz! is worth a spin. It’s the kind of project that rewards repeat listens— textured, intricate, and layered with subtle details that reveal themselves over time– all the while maintaining a simple, but meticulusly crafted sound.

Highlights: man in the mirror, What U Bouta Do?/A Star was Born, When it Rains

They Left Me With The Sword / They Left Me With A Gun by Paris Texas

Though technically two releases, these back-to-back surprise EPs from Paris Texas feel like two sides of the same chaotic, electrifying coin. Blending punk energy with hip-hop grit and unpredictable production, they push their genre-blending sound even further while keeping their raw, unfiltered edge. Easily some of the most interesting music of the year so far.

Highlights: Twin Geeker, Stripper Song