Sledge's top 5 mixtapes of 2010

On twitter (@sledge_mylez) I recently went over my top 5 mixtapes of the year 2010. This was very hotly contested, because this was a quality year for mixtapes and music and general. After hours of listening and reviewing the contenders- here is my list.

5. Mood Musik 4 - Joe Budden

This was a great mixtape and lived up to the hype. I have been a fan of this series and I consider Joe Budden a highly underrated MC. Most people remember him for "rap beefs", his ex-girlfriend Tahiri, and his hit single pump it up. He raps with so much emotion and doesn't hold back from spilling his personal trials and tribulations on the tape. I can relate to him on so many levels with this music/message.

Standout Track: If all else fails

4. Kendrick Lamar - Overly Dedicated

If this tape came out earlier in the year it would've been in contention for the top spot. I am impressed with the variation of beats this Compton MC spits on. Just incredibly lyrical and I put him over Neighborhood Nipsey when it comes to the title of " who will bring the west coast back"

Standout Track: Heaven & Hell

3. Big Krit- Krit wuz here

This tape is what southern rap should be about! No stupid dance tracks and screaming ignorance on tracks, this is just quality music over crunk beats. I went to go see Krit at the waken baken tour this summer and I came home and immediately downloaded the tape, since then I've been bumpin it in the whip.

Standout Track: Voices

2. J.Cole- Friday Night Lights

I think Cole World is the leader of the new school. I am just concerned about his ability to live up to the hype the underground community has put on his shoulders. This tape is flawless and 1ups last years near-class tape the Warm Up. As he says in Villematic "name a fucking song I ain't threw up on?" I have yet to find a answer to that question..

Standout Track: Farewell

1. Wale- More about Nothing

I think Wale is one of the best lyricist out. He is one of the only rappers I have to look up metaphors on Google to understand the meanings. He raps on so many different beats and isn't scared to go outside of the box. The sample choices are incredible as well. Wale has all the potential in the world I just hope he can hone his skills onto a great sophomore album.
Standout Track: Breakup Song