2025 has already been a massive year for rap, with big names and rising stars dominating the charts.

5. TAKE CARE — BigXthaPlug (652K Units)

The biggest surprise on the list belongs to BigXthaPlug. Still considered a newer artist, his TAKE CARE album shocked many by selling over 650K units. Between radio placements, streaming success, and an undeniable star presence, BigX has proven he’s here to stay. Even more impressive? He dropped a country album (I Hope You’re Happy) that might land on this year’s list too.

4. WHAM — Lil Baby (667K Units)

Lil Baby’s WHAM may not be his most memorable body of work, but it still made a huge impact. Released in January 2025, it filled a gap when major rap releases were scarce. With high-profile features like Young Thug and Future on “Dum Dum and Dumber” and Travis Scott on “Stuff,” Baby reminded everyone that his name still carries weight in the rap world.

3. MUSIC — Playboi Carti (1.0M Units)

Few albums have ever carried as much hype as Playboi Carti’s MUSIC. Packed with 30 tracks and features from heavyweights like Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Travis Scott, and Future, Carti gave fans the chaotic, star-studded spectacle they were waiting for. Selling over a million units, MUSIC has cemented itself as one of 2025’s defining projects.

2. $ome $exy $ongs 4 U – Drake & PARTYNEXTDOOR (23k)

While technically a joint project, $$$4U feels like a Drake comeback story. After he feuded with Kendrick, many counted him out. But this R&B-leaning album proved otherwise, with standout records like “Somebody Loves Me” and “NOKIA” propelling it to commercial success. It shows that Drake’s star power still shines brightest, even when sharing the spotlight.

1. GNX — Kendrick Lamar (1.8M Units)

Coming off the biggest beef in hip-hop history, Kendrick Lamar dropped GNX and created the perfect storm. Rather than his signature deep storytelling, he leaned into West Coast-inspired hits like “tv off,” “luther,” and “squabble up.” Interestingly, his viral smash “Not Like Us” didn’t even make the album—but GNX still reigns supreme as the year’s top-selling rap release.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.