Top Albums of 2024
Wrapping Up The Year in Music, Ranking the Top 30 Albums
What a year, 2024! From monumental moments to unforgettable events, one thing remains constant: our shared love for music. As we reflect on the soundtrack of this year, it's time to dive into the albums and tracks that have made 2024 truly iconic.
In this week's wrap-up, we'll take a closer look at the albums that defined the year, culminating in the highly anticipated reveal of the top album of 2024. The WAFFLE team began the ranking process months ago, carefully evaluating albums across all genres using a comprehensive list of criteria—we don’t discriminate! After much deliberation, we’ve narrowed it down to 30 standout albums.
Before we get to the countdown, WAFFLE would like to thank Beyoncé. Unfortunately, her album didn’t make it to the top of this list, but her influence on music this year is undeniable.
Are you ready to see who reigns supreme? Let’s dive into the Top 30 Albums of 2024!
30. One of Wun by Gunna
Gunna’s One of Wun has earned its place at #30 on the Top Albums of 2024 list. While it may be at the bottom of the countdown, this is still an extraordinary milestone—let’s give it up for Gunna! The album captivated rap connoisseurs worldwide with its seamless blend of smooth trap beats, introspective lyricism, and refined production. With Young Thug spending most of 2024 behind bars, all eyes were on Gunna, and he managed to rise to the occasion, proving he stands alone as an artist deserving of his spot in the rap world.
One of Wun marks a significant evolution in Gunna’s sound, showcasing his ability to experiment while staying true to his roots. Tracks like “today i did good” and “one of wun” quickly became anthems, with catchy hooks and effortless flows that resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners alike. What truly sets the album apart, however, is its unique blend of R&B and rap singing. Each song flows seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
While One of Wun may not dominate in the same way as some of the year’s top contenders, Gunna’s versatility and growth as an artist make it a standout in 2024's musical landscape
29. roses are red, tears are blue - A Fountain Baby Extended Play by Amaarae
From “Princess Going Digital” to “Disguise,” honestly, the whole album Roses Are Red, Tears Are Blue – A Fountain Baby Extended Play by Amaarae ranks #29 on the top albums of 2024 list due to its underrated nature and sheer need to be recognized. The Black pop girlies deserve their moment, and WAFFLE is here to give it to them. Amaarae has risen to fame in such a short time, pushing boundaries with her ethereal fusion of Afropop, R&B, electronic, and alternative influences, creating an atmospheric experience that captivates listeners. Its ability to maintain a vibe at all times is truly praise-worthy. This should’ve been on repeat all summer for the girlies with their cheeks out—real Afrobeat, soft, pop-ish vibes. The album’s seamless navigation between genres while maintaining a strong emotional core makes it one of the year's most innovative and compelling projects, showcasing Amaarae’s artistry and vision in full force. With experimental beats, relatable lyrics, and a refreshing approach to modern music, the album resonates deeply with its listeners, securing its place among the top releases of 2024.
28. SUBMISSIVE 2 by Destin Conrad
Destin Conrad’s Submissive2 has made an impressive debut at #28 on the Top Albums of 2024 list, and it’s time to give credit where credit is due. While some critics have prematurely declared R&B "dead," Conrad’s album proves that the genre is very much alive, evolving, and thriving. With Submissive2, Conrad showcases a masterful blend of smooth melodies and emotionally charged lyrics that hit a level of vulnerability and introspection rarely seen in today’s mainstream scene. The album’s rich textures and understated yet impactful production have drawn comparisons to the work of Frank Ocean during his 2010s era—no small feat for an artist still carving out his space. Conrad’s distinct sound, which effortlessly marries the sensuality of R&B with a modern edge, resonated with audiences this year, leading to him headlining his own successful tour. This is an artist to watch, and Submissive2 is proof that his time has come.
27. PLAY CASH COBAIN by Cash Cobain
PLAY CASH COBAIN by Cash Cobain lands at #27 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, delivering a high-energy collection of hypnotic beats with basic lyricism. Cobain has mastered the art of crafting tracks where the music itself takes center stage, with the lyrics serving as an added layer to enhance the vibe.
Cobain is attempting to make a name for himself, carving his own lane, and he may just be onto something.
26. Bird’s Eye by Ravyn Lenae
Ravyn Lenae’s second studio album has successfully claimed the #26 spot on the Top Albums of 2024 list. This may be questionable for some but let’s just go with it.
With her signature soft and sensual voice, Lenae expertly weaves a tapestry of love stories and personal reflections, each track infused with a blend of soulful grooves and relatable storytelling.
The album's seamless fusion of R&B, electronic, and alternative elements creates an intimate yet expansive sound that draws listeners in, offering a deeply personal experience while also maintaining broad appeal. Tracks like Love Me Not and Bad Idea stand out for their hypnotic rhythms and catchy lyrics, showcasing Lenae's ability to create a hit.
Whether you’re looking for a soundtrack to unwind or a deeper musical connection, Raven Lenae delivers a captivating and soothing experience from start to finish.
25. Girl by Coco & Clair Clair
Coco & Clair Clair’s Girl has landed at #25 on the Top Albums of 2024 list, and it’s an album that deserves a much wider audience. The duo’s unique blend of airy, carefree melodies and playful lyrics is reminiscent of the best ringtone-era tracks, but with a twist that’s made for the baddies who get it.
Girl strikes a perfect balance between confidence and softness, offering a refreshing alternative to the hard rap many women feel pressured to embrace, or the all-too-familiar heartbreak of mainstream R&B. The standout track “Aggy” is a testament to their knack for timeless bops—its infectious slang and empowering affirmations make it an anthem for anyone in need of some fun self-assurance.
With Girl, Coco & Clair Clair have carved out a space for themselves in the modern music era, proving that a soft side doesn’t have to mean playing it safe or conforming to mainstream trends. It’s an album that’s fun, bold, and effortlessly cool—a celebration of unapologetic femininity.
24. THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s new album securing the #24 spot on the Top Albums of 2024 list is a testament to her enduring relevance in the music industry. Despite facing strong competition from emerging artists, Swift's vast and loyal fanbase continues to propel her to the forefront of cultural conversations. Her ability to evolve musically while maintaining an intimate connection with her audience ensures that her albums resonate across generations. Swift’s influence is not just confined to chart success; it's about the unwavering support of her fans, who continuously champion her work and keep her at the center of mainstream attention. This powerful fanbase guarantees that, even as the industry shifts, she remains a dominant force in pop culture.
23. Scarlet 2 Claude by Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s Scarlet 2 Claude landing at #23 on the Best Albums of 2024 list speaks to her immense talent and unique place in the music industry. With 27 tracks spanning over 1.5 hours, the album is a melodic journey that feels quintessentially Doja—innovative, bold, and genre-defying. Each song showcases her versatility, blending hip-hop, pop, and experimental sounds, making it clear that she’s a force to be reckoned with. Hits like “Masc” featuring Teezo Touchdown and “Agora Hills” stand out, offering infectious hooks.
Whether she’s delivering raw energy or introspective moments, Doja’s ability to captivate is undeniable. Even as she may choose to take a step back at times and often trolls the internet, her place in music is secure.
22. Born in the Wild by Tems
Tems' album Born in the Wild has made a notable debut at #22 on the list, as she has one of the most powerful and beautiful voices in the industry. She successfully blends soulful melodies with evocative lyrics that draw from her Nigerian roots and personal experiences. Her vocal delivery, characterized by its richness and depth, sets her apart.
Born in the Wild is a testament to her artistic evolution, with tracks like "Burning," "Love Me Jeje," and "Get It Right" standing out as some of the most captivating on the album. Each song weaves a unique narrative, offering both vulnerability and strength, which has earned some Grammy nominations.
21. WE DON’T TRUST YOU by Future & Metro Boomin
We Don't Trust You by Future and Metro Boomin lands at #21 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, as the duo contains two of hip-hop's most reliable hitmakers.
As two of the genre's most consistent and influential forces, Future and Metro have long been known for their ability to craft tracks that dominate the charts and the streets alike. With We Don’t Trust You, they once again deliver a collection of high-energy bangers, including standout tracks like "Like That” and “Type Sh*t,” which perfectly captures the duo's signature blend of trap beats, moody production, and Future’s trademark melodic flows.
Together, Future and Metro have an unmatched chemistry, creating a sound that elevates the party, fuels late-night drives, and fills arenas with undeniable energy. As always, We Don’t Trust You is a testament to their ability to keep the vibes up and the hits coming, proving that when they team up, the results are nothing short of legendary.
20. Last Lap by Rod Wave
Rod Wave’s Last Lap landing at #20 on the Best Albums of 2024 list marks a poignant moment in his career, as it could be his final release. The album, which features 25 tracks, is a testament to his deep understanding of his audience and his uncanny ability to connect on a personal level. Known for his raw, emotional lyrics and distinctive blend of rapping and singing, Wave speaks directly to his fans’ struggles, triumphs, and day-to-day realities. Songs like “25” and the title track “Last Lap” stand out as anthems of reflection and resilience, showcasing his mastery at capturing complex emotions with simplicity and depth.
As an artist with a massive, dedicated fanbase, Wave has built a catalog that resonates with listeners on a visceral level. If Last Lap truly is his swan song, it feels like a fitting end to an era—one where he has already cemented his legacy and given his fans everything they could have hoped for. Whether or not he decides to step away from music, Rod Wave has left a mark on the industry.
19. HARDSTONE PSYCHO by Don Toliver
Don Toliver’s Hardstone Psycho lands at #19 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, showcasing his unique ability to craft infectious, easy-to-remember hits that light up any party. Known for his signature use of repetitive, catchy lyrics, Toliver has once again delivered the perfect soundtrack for those nights out when you know you're about to have a great time.
Hardstone Psycho blends trap, hip-hop, and melodic elements, with each track designed to keep the energy high and the vibes flowing. His hypnotic hooks, combined with atmospheric production, make it the ideal pregame and club music.
Tracks like "ATTITUDE" and "GLOCK" have already become staples in DJ sets, capturing the fun energy that Don Toliver is known for. With this album, he continues to prove that he’s a master at creating anthems that are as memorable as they are danceable.
18. Bryson Tiller by Bryson Tiller
Bryson Tiller's self-titled album, Bryson Tiller, lands at #18 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, marking a triumphant return for the R&B singer who rose to fame with his 2014 debut T R A P S O U L.
Over the years, Tiller has carved out a unique space in the genre, blending smooth melodies with raw, emotionally charged lyrics. His latest album continues to showcase his evolution as an artist, with standout tracks like "Ciao," a sultry and laid-back anthem, and "Whatever She Want," a perfect blend of sensuality and vulnerability. "Rich Boy" also earns an honorable mention for simply being catchy.
With Bryson Tiller, the artist proves that he’s not just a staple of the R&B scene but also a force who continues to evolve, shaping the future of the genre while staying true to his signature style.
17. BLUE LIPS by Schoolboy Q
BLUE LIPS by ScHoolboy Q lands at #17 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, proving that the underrated rapper is still a force to be reckoned with. While it may not have garnered the attention it deserved, this album blends fun, high-energy rap with conscious, old-school influences, offering a refreshing mix that stands out in today’s music landscape.
ScHoolboy Q’s unique ability to balance playful bangers with thought-provoking, woke lyrics is evident throughout the album, which also features standout collaborations with Rico Nasty and Freddie Gibbs. BLUE LIPS showcases Q's versatility as an artist, effortlessly shifting between different styles while still maintaining his distinct voice. I
f you haven’t tapped in yet, it's not too late—BLUE LIPS is one of the most exciting albums of 2024 and deserves much more recognition for its depth and energy.
16. Charm by Clairo
Clairo’s Charm securing the #16 spot on the Top Albums of 2024 list is a testament to her unique blend of indie-pop and her effortless ability to connect with listeners. Known for breakout hits like “Flaming Hot Cheeto” and “Sofia,” Clairo continues to evolve with her latest album. One of the standout tracks, “Juna,” offers a refreshing and soothing vibe, perfect for any time of day, and exemplifies the superb replay value that the album offers. Clairo’s voice, as always, is a calming force, providing the kind of soothing presence we all crave in music today.
As an independent artist on her own recording label, Clairo’s passion for the craft is evident—her music is both fun and incredibly well-crafted. Shoutout to “Terrapin”, which highlights her ability to merge artistry with infectious, laid-back tunes, proving once again why she’s a force in the indie music scene.
15. I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (2023) by Teddy Swims
Teddy Swims’ second studio album I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy lands at #15 on the Best Albums of 2024 list. One could say this year marked a breakthrough for the emerging artist. Although the album was released in 2023, it was in 2024 that Teddy Swims truly captured the spotlight, earning Grammy nominations and cementing his place as one of the year’s most exciting new voices.
Known for his soulful, raspy tenor and emotionally raw lyrics, Swims crafted a project that resonates deeply with listeners, particularly through standout tracks like "Lose Control," which became one of the best songs of 2024. The album, blending elements of R&B, soul, and pop, highlights Teddy’s vulnerability and lyrical honesty, making it impossible to ignore.
I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy isn’t just a musical statement—it’s the moment we all learned Teddy Swims' name, and it's a perfect representation of the artistry and authenticity that defined the year.
14. eternal sunshine by Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine lands at #14 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, adding another remarkable chapter to her already legendary career.
In addition to her immense success with the release of Wicked, Ariana continues to shine with this album, further solidifying her status as one of pop’s most powerful voices. Eternal Sunshine is a beautiful exploration of vulnerability and realness, with standout tracks like "Boy Bye" and "We Can’t Be Friends" offering a mix of emotional depth and catchy, high-energy hooks.
Ariana’s voice, undeniably one of the best of all time, effortlessly glides through the album, from heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat anthems. Her vocal precision and ability to convey emotion in every note are what set her apart, and Eternal Sunshine continued proves that. Even as she continues to conquer new creative heights, Ariana Grande will remain one of the most iconic vocalists in pop history.
13. PARTYNEXTDOOR 4 by PARTYNEXTDOOR
Partynextdoor’s P4 lands at #13 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, marking a highly anticipated return after years of being away. Known for his ability to craft sultry, atmospheric tracks that set the mood, P4 does not disappoint, delivering that signature blend of sensuality and vibe that fans have come to expect. Tracks like "No Chill," "Real Woman," and "Resentment" exemplify Partynextdoor's mastery of evoking raw emotion while keeping the energy just right for the girlies to "pop their shi*t." His ability to balance seductive hooks with introspective lyrics keeps the album on heavy rotation, offering layers of replay value.
With P4, Party once again proves he’s a mood-setter, creating the kind of music that feels like an event every time he drops an album. As always, his return was a moment, reminding us all why he's one of the best at blending emotional depth with irresistible grooves.
12. COWBOY CARTER by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter has secured the #12 spot on the Top Albums of 2024 list, marking a groundbreaking moment in her career as she continues to break down genre boundaries. With this album, she seamlessly blends country, pop, and R&B in ways that only she could, showcasing her ability to excel in any musical territory she enters.
Cowboy Carter became the anthem for the 2024 Olympics, but despite its massive success, the album sparked significant controversy, particularly within the country music scene. Many felt her exploration of country music was not deserving of recognition, as Beyoncé shockingly received no country music award nominations, even with tracks like "Texas Hold Em" and "II Hands II Heaven" becoming fan favorites.
These songs captured her signature ability to blend emotional depth with infectious melodies, and her fearless approach to genre fusion made Cowboy Carter one of the most talked-about albums of the year. While critics may have been divided, there’s no denying that Beyoncé’s influence continues to dominate, and with Cowboy Carter, she’s proven once again that she can shape the soundscape of any genre she touches.
11. Sugar Honey Iced Tea by Latto
Latto’s Sugar Honey Iced Tea lands at #11 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, marking a standout year for the rap powerhouse. With this album, Latto firmly announced to the world that she’s here to stay and deserves her place at the top of the game.
Sugar Honey Iced Tea is a celebration of confidence, power, and unapologetic self-expression, delivering anthem after anthem for her fanbase, the "girlies," and beyond. Tracks like "Brokey," "Big Mama," and "Georgia Peach" showcase her knack for creating infectious hooks, fiery bars, and anthemic beats, all while maintaining a bold and playful energy that has become her signature.
The album not only highlights the ATL artist’s versatility, but it also establishes her as a cultural force, proving she can dominate both the charts and the streets with ease. With Sugar Honey Iced Tea, Latto has easily become one of the most exciting and influential female artists of this generation.
10. MUTT by Leon Thomas
Leon Thomas, best known for his role as Andre on Victorious, lands at #10 on the Best Albums of 2024 list with MUTT, an R&B project that showcases his evolution from TV star to an undeniable force in the music industry.
From the moment he appeared on our screens in iCarly, it was clear that Thomas had exceptional talent, and his career has since confirmed it. Known for his behind-the-scenes work, including co-writing SZA's hit "Snooze," Thomas has consistently demonstrated his mastery of both songwriting and production.
On MUTT, he takes full control, offering R&B sounds that fans could relate to, and lyrics that utilized his rich vocal abilities and impressive range. The album reflects his growth as an artist and creator, as he seamlessly navigates the worlds of songwriting, producing, and performing. With MUTT, Leon Thomas proves that he’s not just a former child star—he’s a versatile, innovative musician carving out his own space in the industry.
9. CHROMAKOPIA by Tyler, The Creator
Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia lands at #9 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, as he is one of the most innovative artists in rap. True to his signature style, Tyler continues to push the boundaries of genre, effortlessly blending rap with elements of soul, jazz, and experimental sounds.
Chromakopia stands out for its daring production choices, including a soulful sample of John Legend and the revival of Daniel Caesar’s rich, smooth vocals, which added a fresh, dynamic layer to the album. Tyler’s ability to reinvent himself on each project is on full display here, as he consistently evolves his sound while maintaining an unmistakable artistic identity.
With impressive features and a deeply personal touch, Chromakopia not only showcases Tyler’s versatility but also his talent for creating pure, boundary-pushing art that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners. It’s an album that exemplifies his constant evolution and reinforces his place at the top of the rap game.
8. BRAT by Charli xcx
Charli XCX’s Brat lands at #8 on the Best Albums of 2024 list, and it’s easy to see why. A vibrant, high-energy record, Brat became the soundtrack to what many called the "Brat Summer."
The album bursts with infectious pop anthems and experimental production, blending elements of hyperpop, electro, and rave to create an irresistible party atmosphere. Charli XCX's fearless approach to music shines through, transforming each track into a DJing masterpiece—perfect for the dance floor or the afterparty.
From the playful attitude of the most popular track to the gravitating beats of "Apple," Brat captured the moment— it was the moment, with its bold, rebellious tone, making it an unforgettable celebration of carefree fun and youthful energy.
The album didn’t just get people dancing—it became a cultural touchstone.
7. TIMELESS by KAYTRANADA
Kaytranada’s TIMELESS has earned the #7 spot on the Top Albums of 2024 list, further solidifying his place as one of the most innovative producers in music today. Known for his signature blend of house music and electronic beats, Kaytranada has a unique ability to craft tracks that compel listeners to move, whether it’s the pulsating rhythm or the infectious grooves.
TIMELESS features an all-star lineup of collaborators, including Childish Gambino, PinkPantheress, Thundercat, Mariah the Scientist, just to name a few — each adding their own flair to the album’s dynamic sound. What makes TIMELESS truly special, however, is how it pushes boundaries and refuses to be confined to any single genre or label. Kaytranada’s refusal to fit into a box is a refreshing testament to the power of creative freedom, especially for Black artists who continue to be pigeonholed by industry expectations.
With TIMELESS, Kaytranada shows once again that genre is a playground, not a limitation, and his music is a celebration of versatility, innovation, and unrestrained artistic expression.
6.Alligator Bites Never Heal by Doechii
Doechii’s Alligator Bites Never Heal claiming the #6 spot on the Top Albums of 2024 list marks a breakout moment in what has been a transformative year for the artist. Under Kendrick Lamar’s Top Dawg Entertainment, Doechii has been building momentum for some time, but 2024 truly felt like her “seed planting” year, where her unique voice and vision have finally found their full expression. The album’s raw, dynamic energy, which showcase her lyrical prowess and fearless experimentation, have resonated deeply with both critics and fans alike.
With standout songs such as ‘NISSAN ALTIMA’ and ‘BLOOM’ that embody hip-hop, Alligator Bites Never Heal solidifies her as one of the most exciting artists of the moment. Industry insiders, including WAFFLE, predict that 2025 will be a phenomenal year for Doechii, as her talent continues to grow and expand, positioning her for even greater success in the years to come.
5. Gap Year by Laila
Two words. Zero features. We haven’t seen this since... well, maybe never! Laila, the daughter of legendary rap poet Mos Def, has truly made her mark with her debut album, Gap Year, landing at #5!
It’s an extraordinary achievement, proving that dropping a bad track is simply not a problem she has to worry about. Known for hit songs like “Like That!” and “Not My Problem,” Laila has become an undeniable standout in the music scene, but with Gap Year, she’s taken it to a whole new level. As the music world evolves, so does Laila’s sound, seamlessly incorporating the remix culture, interlude-driven structures, and sped-up styles that have become synonymous with social media trends. It’s a style that connects with fans of all ages, and the album’s versatility ensures that it can be enjoyed by everyone.
From start to finish, Gap Year feels like the soundtrack to the future. Congratulations to Laila on an iconic year—something tells us she’s just getting started, and we can't wait to see what’s next.
4. HIT ME HARD AND SOFT by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s latest album, Hit Me Hard, has stormed into the charts, debuting at a remarkable #4 on the Top Albums of 2024 list. This marks the third studio album from the genre-defying artist, and it’s clear that she continues to captivate with her singular voice—one that remains unmatched in contemporary music.
Hit Me Hard is a perfect 45-minute encapsulation of Eilish's creative range, weaving together beautiful melodies, vulnerable lyrics, and a soundscape that only she could create. Tracks like "Birds of a Feather" have already been hailed as some of the year's best, easily in the top three. But let's not overlook the atmospheric power of "Lunch" and the raw emotional pull of "Wildflower," which showcase the witty, more introspective side to Eilish’s artistry.
The album’s success is a testament to her continued evolution, but also to her unique place in music, as no artist seems poised to duplicate the magic that she brings with each release. Recently named Apple Music's Artist of the Year, Eilish proves yet again that she remains one of the most innovative forces in pop.
3. GNX by Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX hits #3 on the top albums of 2024 list, marking yet another monumental chapter in his already legendary career. After dominating the charts with "Not Like Us" for months, Kendrick took the energy from his high-profile beef with Drake and channeled it into an album that feels like a statement—one that asserts his place at the top of rap's hierarchy. Released unexpectedly in late November, GNX sent shockwaves through the music world, with fans immediately diving into their favorite tracks and making “Mustard” the phrase of the moment. The album features a range of artists that add even more fuel to the fire of its widespread acclaim, further cementing Kendrick’s reputation as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Beyond the music, Kendrick's year has been nothing short of iconic—his upcoming Super Bowl performance and tour with SZA are just the latest moves in a year that has firmly placed him in the conversation of the greatest rappers in history. As GNX continues to make waves, it’s clear that Kendrick is only getting started, and 2024 has proven that he is truly untouchable.
2. Tyla by Tyla
She did it for the girls! Tyla's debut album Tyla ranks #2 on the top albums of 2024, and it's easy to see why: this South African powerhouse has truly taken the world by storm. Here’s why Tyla is one of the year’s most exciting and impactful releases:
Tyla’s track "Water" became a viral sensation, dominating TikTok trends, charts, and dance floors worldwide. The infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and signature dance moves turned it into a global anthem, solidifying Tyla as a force to be reckoned with. “Water” soared on the charts, with a presence that resonated far beyond South Africa. It proved that the global appeal of Afrobeats continues to rise, with Tyla helping to lead the charge.
Tyla didn’t just stop at “Water.” Tracks like "Jump," "ART," and "Truth or Dare" became instant hits, showcasing her versatility and knack for creating songs that stick in your head long after they end.
2024 has been Tyla's year, reminding the world that music is back in a big way and that new icons are emerging with undeniable talent. Her captivating presence and unique sound have captured the hearts of fans globally, cementing her status as a rising star. This album showcased not just her musical talent but her ability to shape the culture and make an impact in a way few debut albums do. Her ability to transcend genres and influence global trends makes her one of the most exciting artists to watch in the coming years.
1. Short n Sweet by Sabrina Carpenter
Coming in at # 1 we have Short n Sweet by Sabrina Carpenter, undeniably earning its place the Top Albums of 2024 list. It feels like Sabrina’s blow-up happened overnight, but make no mistake—this success has been over a decade in the making. After years of hard work and dedication, this album is the culmination of everything Carpenter has strived for. Short n Sweet is nothing short of the album of the year, an instant classic that continues to captivate listeners. The catchy tunes were inescapable, constantly replaying across social media platforms, and each track felt like a viral moment waiting to happen. You learned one song, and before you know it, the next one was gaining traction. Tracks like “Please Please Please” and “Bed Chem” had fans in a chokehold, and don’t even get us started on Espresso—a track that absolutely took over.
Beyond the hits, this album singlehandedly catapulted Sabrina Carpenter’s career to new heights, solidifying her place in the music industry. Sure, there’s been some buzz around the fact that she allegedly drew inspiration for her album cover from a French magazine, but when it comes to the music, it’s clear: Sabrina ate. Her artistic vision, paired with infectious melodies and relatable lyrics, has made this an unforgettable year for her.
If you’re craving more Carpenter magic, be sure to catch her A Nonsense Christmas special on Netflix tonight at 6pm pt/ 9pm et, featuring a star-studded lineup of special guests.
As we wrap up our look at WAFFLE's Top Albums of 2024, it’s clear that this year has been a defining one for music. From Doechii to Clair, these artists conveyed a deepening of artistic expression and a willingness to push boundaries. Whether through lyrics, production, or familiar sounds, these albums stand as testaments to the dynamic talent shaping the musical industry. With so many incredible releases, it’s exciting to think about where 2025 will take us—one thing is certain: the love of music will never die.