Photo Credit: Paras Griffin for Getty Images/BMI

Since it’s the top of 2022, there are a few releases from the top of the crop. This week’s best hip-hop and indie albums feature options from Gunna, Femdot and more. 

The first week of the year means that indie and mainstream artists alike are gearing up to unveil new music drops. Since it’s the top of 2022, there are a few releases from the top of the crop — in fact, two acts who are an unlikely pair are starting the year strong: The Weeknd and Gunna.

The Weeknd, a global pop icon begins the new year with Dawn FM, on it, you’ll find Lil Wayne and Tyler, The Creator as the featured artists. Don’t sleep on Gunna who emerges to share DS4Ever. Features on this album include Young Thug, 21 Savage, Lil Baby, Chloe, Future, G Herbo, Roddy Ricch, Yung Bleu, and more. 

Then there’s Chicago artist Femdot who released Not For Sale today, this project is a palette cleanser. It’s equipped with appearances by Alex Banin, theMind, and Gousse. While Hush Forte and Daoud and bLvvk are credited as producers. Lecrae x 1K Phew’s No Church In A While dropped back in December, but it’s worth bumping up as it’s a worthy listen. David Bowie’s three-disc release Toy has finally arrived. Gnani’s Sis is an enjoyable project we stumbled upon this week. It’s a curious, funky, and well-curated EP.

Take a look at the albums you need to stream this week below.

The Weeknd — Dawn FM

Photo Credit: Republic Records

Gunna — DS4EVER

Photo Credit: Artist

Femdot — Not for Sale

Photo Credit: Artist

Lecrae x 1K Phew — No Church In A While

Photo Credit: Artist

David Bowie — Toy (Toy:Box)

Photo Credit: Artist

Gnani — Sis

Photo Credit: Artist