Joey Bada$$ – 1999
A landmark release in modern hip-hop, 1999 introduced Joey Bada$$ as one of the most exciting voices of his generation. Originally released as a breakthrough mixtape, the project helped revive the classic East Coast sound while showcasing Joey's lyrical maturity, sharp storytelling and effortless flow. Drawing inspiration from golden-era New York rap, 1999 blends soulful production, jazz-infused beats and intricate wordplay into a collection that remains essential listening for hip-hop fans.
Featuring standout tracks including "Waves", "Survival Tactics", "Hardknock" and "FromdaTomb$", the album captures the energy of the Pro Era movement while highlighting collaborations with Capital STEEZ, CJ Fly, Chuck Strangers and other key members of the collective. The result is a cohesive body of work that balances introspection, ambition and youthful confidence.
Now available on 2LP vinyl, 1999 remains a defining release in contemporary rap and a vital addition to any hip-hop vinyl collection. For fans of Nas, The Roots, A Tribe Called Quest, Kendrick Lamar and classic boom-bap production, this release continues to stand as one of the most celebrated independent hip-hop projects of the 2010s.