Top 5 Kid CuDi Albums: Kid CuDi’s Best Albums, According To RGM

Several artists have fueled my love for music, but Kid Cudi stands out above the rest. In a rap landscape often dominated by boasts about flashy chains and endless romantic conquests, Cudi chose a different path — opening up about depression, self-discovery, and the search for happiness. His vulnerability hit me in a way few artists ever have, making his music feel like a lifeline during difficult times.

Now, I want to share my top five favorite Kid Cudi albums — the ones that have shaped my musical taste and stayed with me through every chapter of life.

5. Kid CuDi – Man On The Moon III: The Chosen (2018)

I’m so glad Kid CuDi released this album in 2020 because it allowed me to proclaim it as his best in the last ten years.

Kid CuDi revisited his roots in Man On The Moon III: The Chosen. Throughout the album, he skillfully blends intergalactic sounds with contemporary hip-hop vibes, reminiscent of his earlier work. He also continues to experiment with various genres and subgenres, ranging from pop to rock to trap to drill, showcasing his versatility. In summary, Man On The Moon III: The Chosen stands out for its exceptional production, introspective lyrics, and well-suited features.

Favorite Tracks: “Tequila Shots,” “She Knows This,” & “Show Out.”

4. Man On The Moon II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager (2010)

“Man On The Moon II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager” aged decently. When it first came out, I f**king hated the album.

You know what always scared me about Kid Cudi? The idea that the more mainstream he became, the more watered-down his music would sound. Man On The Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager proved my fears weren’t unfounded. The album is weighed down by a few forced features (seriously, why is Mary J. Blige on two tracks?), overly sentimental filler, and a lack of that organic rapping Cudi does best.

That said, when Cudi ventured into experimental territory, he actually shined. If you consider “Erase Me” experimental because it leans heavily into pop, then that’s a win. If the Mr. Rogers-esque “REVOFEV” counts as experimental, that’s also a win. The problem is, those moments are scattered, and as a whole, the album just doesn’t hit as hard as I’d hoped.

One thing, however, is beyond debate: this album’s artwork is pure fire.

Favorite Tracks: “REVOFEV” “Erase Me” & “Mr. Rager.”

3. Man On The Moon: The End Of Day (2009)

I can’t tell you all how much I played the f**k out of this album.

If there’s anyone qualified to talk about Man On The Moon: The End of Day, it’s me. Back in college, this album was my soundtrack for just about everything—after basketball games, during quiet moments with my girlfriend, post-failed tests, and even on the way to contest a parking ticket in court.

So why did it grab me the way it did? Well, the album captures a young, still-green Kid Cudi finding his rhythm, experimenting with sounds—some hits, some misses. The real magic came when you let the music soak in and reveal itself. I mean, do you remember how hard it was to figure out what the hell “In My Dreams (Cudder Anthem)” was about? Or how baffling it was that a dryer sheets commercial—better known as “Hyyerr”—ended up on the tracklist? Still, some of Cudi’s bold swings connected in a big way. This project holds about five of his best songs ever, including “Day ’N’ Nite,” which, at this point, feels like it’s been featured on four different albums. (Way to milk the cow, CuDi.)

Favorite Tracks: “Pursuit Of Happiness,” “Soundtrack 2 My Life,” and “Day ‘N’ Night.”

2. Kids See Ghosts (2016)

Kid CuDi and Kanye West do not have nearly enough music together.

I thought Tommy Monroe perfectly captured the essence of Kids See Ghosts in his post about the album. Here’s his summary:

“Kid Cudi and Kanye West have been making music together for a long time. Throughout that period, they faced personal struggles and gradually healed their relationship. This album is exactly what they needed for that healing process. For Kanye, music remains his best way to express himself, and he does so effortlessly on this record.

Both lyrically and sonically, the album is a pleasure to listen to. Kanye’s expression on tracks like “Kids See Ghosts” and “Reborn” embodies true free thinking—nothing offensive or alarming, just honest words from an artist who’s had time for self-reflection. When Kid Cudi isn’t humming or singing, he delivers solid verses that complement the vibe. Overall, listening to this album feels like hearing the stories of two best friends who have been through quite an adventure.”

1. A Kid Named CuDi (2008)

“A Kid Named CuDi” is arguably the best mixtape I’ve ever heard.

In A Kid Named CuDi, Kid Cudi introduces himself to the world in an organic, loose, and wildly creative way. The mixtape highlights his talent by weaving in a variety of beats from other artists, which he tastefully reimagines as his own. It’s an early showcase of his fearless approach to melodic, moody hip-hop, seamlessly blended with raw, gritty rap elements. The energy radiating from the Cleveland native is captivating, making it even more impressive to see how he’s built upon this foundation over the years.

OK, I bent the rules a little here… but there’s no way I could leave this mixtape off the list.

Favorite Tracks: “The Prayer,” “Is There Love,” and “Embrace The Martian.”

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