Several artists ignited my love for music, and Kid Cudi stands out among them. Amidst a rap scene dominated by boasts about flashy chains and numerous exploits with women, Cudi delved into themes of depression and the pursuit of happiness. His honesty resonated with me on a profound level. Now, I want to share my top five favorite Kid Cudi albums.
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 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: “Tequilla 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.
Do you know what always scared me about Kid CuDi? I thought the more mainstream he got, the more watered-down his music would sound. My biggest fears came to fruition with this album. Man On The Moon II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager features a few forced features (Why the hell is Mary J. Blige on two songs?), forced sappy records, and not enough organic rapping. However, when CuDi experimented on the album, going super left, I did think he shined. Like, if you’re calling “Erase Me” an experimental effort because it sounds like some pop s**t, that was a success. If we call the Mr. Rogers-ass “REVOFEV” experimental, that was a success. To make a long story short, CuDi did some impressive things on this album, but as a whole, it’s just not my favorite.
One thing that is not debatable is this: This album’s artwork is 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 discuss Man On The Moon: The End Of Day, it’s me. During my college days, I spun this album after basketball games, quality time with my girlfriend, post-failed tests, and even en route to contest a parking ticket in court. So, why did this album captivate me? Well, within it, a very young and green CuDi was discovering his rhythm, leading to experimentation with various sounds—some hitting the mark and others missing. But truly appreciating the music required letting it seep into your system to grasp its essence. I mean, do you realize how challenging it was to comprehend what the f**k “In My Dreams (Cudder Anthem)” was about? Or better yet, the confusion sparked by a dryer sheets commercial (aka “Hyyerr”) making its way onto the album. When all is said and done, some of CuDi’s audacious swings indeed turned into home runs. This album features about five of his best songs to date, including “Day ‘N’ Night,” which seems to have found a home on about 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 encapsulated Kid 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. During that time, they have had personal problems and stitched the wounds of their relationship together; but this album is what they both needed to heal. Nevertheless, music is the best way Ye can express himself, and he does that smoothly on this album.
Both lyrically and sonically, this album is very pleasing to listen to. Kanye West’s ability to express himself on songs like “Kids See Ghosts” and “Reborn” is the definition of “free thinking” — Nothing offensive, nothing alarming, and nothing that will make you want to delete his entire discography, just words from an artist who has had the time to criticize himself. When Kid Cudi isn’t humming or singing, he’s spitting some pretty decent bars on his verses. All in all, listening to this album is like hearing the stories of two best friends who have been on quite the 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 makes his introduction to the world in an organic, fun, loose, and highly creative manner. The mixtape showcases Cudi’s talent by incorporating a variety of beats from other artists, which he tastefully appropriates. It serves as an introduction to his fearless approach to melodic, moody hip-hop, seamlessly blending with gritty hip-hop elements. The energy emanating from the Cleveland native is truly captivating, and it’s fascinating to witness how he builds on this foundation as his career progresses.
OK, I bent the rules here a little… But I couldn’t leave this mixtape out of this list at all!
Favorite Tracks: “The Prayer,” “Is There Love” & “Embrace The Martian.”
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
