In 2023 we witnessed the rise of several new artists as well as the return of fan-favorite ones. Artists like Ice Spice, Gracie Abrams, Boygenius, Reneé Rapp and NewJeans have made their strong entry in the music industry with debut LPs and viral songs. On the other hand, Olivia Rodrigo, Miley Cyrus, Melanie Martinez, Nicki Minaj and Blink-182 made their triumphant return. As we step into the new year, let’s dive into the albums that shaped 2023, ranked in chronological order.
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Like..? – Ice Spice
Riding high on the success of the 2022 viral hit “Munch (Feelin’ U),” Ice Spice opened her 2023 with the debut EP “Like..?” The project earned critical acclaim and peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 after the release of the “Princess Diana Remix” featuring Nicki Minaj.
Rush! – Maneskin
Earlier this year, Maneskin dropped their third studio album. The LP is the band’s first English language record, with “La fine” being the only exception. “Rush” was supported by five singles, including “Supermodel,” produced by Max Martin, and “Gossip,” featuring guitarist Tom Morello.
Diamonds & Dancefloors – Ava Max
Following the success of her debut studio album “Heaven & Hell,” Ava Max returned this year with “Diamonds & Dancefloors.” Much like her debut album, Max revisits the same dance-pop sound. The LP features the hit single “Million Dollar Baby” and reached the top 10 in various countries. In support of the album, Max embarked on her first headlining tour from April to September.
Let’s Start Here – Lil Yachty
“Let’s Start Here” was a surprise album Lil Yachty announced just 10 days before its release, but it wasn’t the only surprise. In fact, unlike his previous works, Lil Yachty brought a psychedelic twist that also blends elements of alternative, rock, and pop genres. The album debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 and was met with critical acclaim, receiving a score of 73 out of 100 on Metacritic.
My 21st Century Blues – Raye
Carried by the success of “Escapism,” Raye’s debut album, “My 21st Century Blues,” is one of the most appreciated and acclaimed projects of 2023. The album, released independently, features 15 tracks where Raye explores some of her struggles such as insecurity and sexual assault. It debuted at No. 2 on the UK Albums chart and received a nomination for Album of the Year for the 2023 Mercury Prize.
This Is Why – Paramore
After a six-year hiatus, Paramore returned with their sixth studio album, “This Is Why.” The album spawned four singles, including the title track and “C’est Comme Ça.” A remix version of the album, titled “Re: This Is Why,” was released in October, featuring remixed and rewritten versions of the songs from the original album. Notably, thanks to “This Is Why,” Paramore scored two nominations at the upcoming 2024 Grammy Awards.
Love Sick – Don Toliver
“Love Sick” is Don Toliver’s third studio album and the first since 2021. The LP features several guest appearances, including Justin Bieber, Kali Uchis, and Future.
Good Riddance – Gracie Abrams
One of the sweetest surprises of the year has a name—Gracie—and a surname—Abrams. The 24-year-old singer had a year to remember as she opened for Taylor Swift during The Eras Tour and released her debut album. In “Good Riddance,” Abrams’ angelic voice accompanies listeners for 52 minutes with masterpieces like “Where Do We Go Now?” and “I Know It Won’t Work.” The LP achieved massive success, especially in the UK, where it reached the top 5 on both the UK Albums Chart and the Scottish Albums Chart. Additionally, “Good Riddance” helped her earn the first Grammy nomination of her career, as she’s up for Best New Artist.
Mañana Será Bonito – Karol G
In February, Karol G dropped her fourth studio album, “Mañana Será Bonito.” The record spawned several hit singles, including the Latin Grammy-winning track “TQG” and became the first all-Spanish language album by a woman to top the Billboard 200. The album won two Latin Grammys, including Album of the Year, and is nominated for Best Música Urbana Album at the 2024 Grammy Awards. Notably, “Mañana Será Bonito” is the most-streamed album of the year on Spotify, amassing over 4.5 billion streams.
Red Moon In Venus – Kali Uchis
Another artist who made a return to the music scene is Kali Uchis. The Colombia-origin singer unleashed her third album, “Red Moon Venus,” which she described as a “timeless, burning expression of desire, heartbreak, faith, and honesty, reflecting the divine femininity of the moon and Venus.” The record was anticipated by two singles, “I Wish You Roses” and “Moonlight,” and received a score of 84 out of 100 on Metacritic.
One Thing At A Time – Morgan Wallen
Morgan Wallen dominated the US charts with his third album, “One Thing At A Time.” In fact, the record spent a total of 16 weeks atop the Billboard 200, becoming the album with the most weeks at No. 1 in the 2020s. Additionally, all of its 36 tracks entered the Billboard Hot 100, breaking the record for the most songs by an artist on the chart at one time.
Endless Summer Vacation – Miley Cyrus
Carried by the hit single “Flowers,” Miley Cyrus’ eighth studio album has been one of the most acclaimed albums of the year. It has been nominated for Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2024 Grammy Awards.
Eat Your Young – Hozier
In March, Hozier released the extended play titled “Eat Your Young,” featuring three songs. The title track debuted at No. 67 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking his first appearance since the 2014 hit “Take Me To Church.”
Face – Jimin
Jimin embarked on his solo career with the release of the debut album “Face.” The record was heavily influenced by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Jimin’s emotions. In the US, two singles from the album – “Set Me Free Pt. 2” and “Like Crazy” – reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. In South Korea, “Face” broke the record for the most sales on its opening day, with over 1 million copies sold.
Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd – Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey delighted us with one of the most captivating albums of 2023. “Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd” received critical acclaim, with many praising the complex lyrics and experimental production. The album is nominated for two Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, while the singles “A&W” and “Candy Necklace” have gathered a total of three nominations.
The Record – Boygenius
Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus joined forces for the release of “The Record” under the group’s name Boygenius. The album received critical acclaim with a score of 90 on Metacritic, and magazines like NME and DIY gave it a perfect score. “The Record” topped the UK Albums Chart and received seven Grammy nominations.
Portals – Melanie Martinez
Melanie Martinez made her return with “Portals.” With this release, Martinez introduced a new creature-like alter-ego and embarked on a tour performing in this costume. “Portals” debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling 142,000 units.
Bebe – Bebe Rexha
In 2022, Bebe Rexha achieved high success again with her collaboration with David Guetta, “I’m Good (Blue).” Earlier this year, she announced and released the self-titled album “Bebe,” explaining why she opted for that title, stating, “because I feel like it’s time that people know who I am and learn more about me and my story.” The record features two notable collaborations: “Satellite” with Snoop Dogg and “Seasons” with Dolly Parton.
– (Subtract) – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran has been very active this year. The Grammy-winning singer released two albums, “-“ and “Autumn Season.” The former marked the final mathematical-themed album and Sheeran’s first visual album as he shared music videos for all the tracks. The album topped charts in 14 countries and received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album.
Gag Order – Kesha
Kesha’s “Gag Order” marks her final release with Kemosabe Records and RCA Records. The record departs from the sound of the 2020 album “High Road” and falls into an experimental and psychedelic exploration. “Gag Order” touches on themes of trauma and depression during the period of Kesha’s legal battle with producer Dr. Luke.
Broken by Desire to Be Heavenly Sent – Lewis Capaldi
After multiple delays and a four-year wait, Lewis Capaldi released the follow-up to his breakout debut album “Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent.” The album takes back the sound of the debut album, as Capaldi didn’t want to “reinvent” himself.
Almost Healed – Lil Durk
On May 26, Lil Durk dropped his eighth studio album “Almost Healed.” Through this record, the rapper wanted to give his fans “therapy.” The album, which was originally meant to be titled “The Voice 2.0,” features the hit single “All My Life,” earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance.
The Show – Niall Horan
Niall Horan’s third studio album, “The Show,” released on June 9, 2023, under Capitol Records, presents a musical fusion drawing from rock and synth-pop genres. The album received critical acclaim with a score of 83 on Metacritic. Through “The Show,” Niall Horan invites listeners into a reflection of his current self, capturing the essence of personal and creative growth.
Business Is Business – Young Thug
Mainly produced by Metro Boomin, “Business Is Business” is Young Thug’s third album and his first since 2021. The album features numerous guest appearances, including Drake and Gunna. The release of “Business Is Business” is marked by Young Thug’s legal troubles, and the album cover, reflecting Young Thug’s legal situation, portrays the rapper in a courtroom surrounded by co-defendants.
Pink Tape – Lil Uzi Vert
After a very long wait and several delays, Lil Uzi Vert finally released “Pink Tape” on June 30. The album, which debuted atop the Billboard 200, incorporates elements from alternative hip hop, punk rap, and metalcore. The single “Just Wanna Rock” and its music videos went viral on TikTok, garnering over 500 million views on the platform.
Get Up – NewJeans
K-Pop newcomers NewJeans have been a dominant force in 2023, propelled by the success of the EP “Get Up.” The extended play became the girl group’s first No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and helped them to win the Billboard Music Award for Top Global K-Pop Artist.
Austin – Post Malone
Produced by Post Malone himself, along with Andrew Watt, Louis Bell, Max Martin, and Rami Yacoub, “Austin” marks Malone’s first project without any featured artists. It also marks a strong departure from his previous works, embracing a synth-pop, indie pop, and alternative rock sound. The album was supported by four singles: “Chemical,” “Mourning,” “Overdrive,” and “Enough Is Enough.”
Utopia – Travis Scott
After teasing it since 2020, Travis Scott finally dropped “Utopia” in 2023. The album features several hit singles, including “K-Pop” and “Meltdown,” and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, earning 496,000 album-equivalent units. Despite the album’s massive success, topping charts in 20 countries, “Utopia” received just a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.
Snow Angel – Reneé Rapp
Another delightful surprise of 2023 is the debut of Reneé Rapp in the music industry with “Snow Angel.” Just like Gracie Abrams’ “Good Riddance,” “Snow Angel” performed extraordinarily well in the UK, where it peaked at No. 7 on the Albums chart.
Guts – Olivia Rodrigo
After the success of her debut album “Sour,” Olivia Rodrigo didn’t disappoint with her second LP “Guts.” The album deals with Rodrigo’s transition from adolescence to adulthood. The album was anticipated by the chart-topping hit “Vampire” and received two Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year.
BB/Ang3l – Tinashe
Last September, Tinashe independently released her sixth studio album “BB/Ang3l.” In interviews, Tinashe emphasized the personal nature of this record, describing it as an album with a raw emotional approach.
Silence Between Songs – Madison Beer
Serving as a follow-up to her debut album “Life Support” (2021), “Silence Between Songs” produced five singles ahead of its release: “Reckless,” “Dangerous,” “Showed Me (How I Fell in Love with You),” “Home to Another One,” and “Spinnin.” Talking about the album, Beer shared that she realized her personal growth occurred not during her busiest moments in the industry but in the moments of silence and reflection between songs. Notably, the LP earned Beer her first Grammy nomination.
Scarlet – Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s latest album, “Scarlet,” was released in September. For the first time in her career, Doja opted for a record without any featured artists. The album spawned several hit singles, including “Paint The Town Red” and “Agora Hills.” The first secured massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles chart.
Set It Off – Offset
“Set It Off” is the second solo studio album by Offset, released on October 13, 2023. The album features notable guest appearances from Travis Scott, Don Toliver, Future, Cardi B, Mango Foo, Latto, Young Nudy, and Chlöe. The album’s title signifies Offset’s determined entry into the solo artist realm, aiming to make a significant impact with this new chapter in his musical journey.
Something To Give Each Other – Troye Sivan
With a score of 84 out of 100 on Metacritic, Troye Sivan’s “Something To Give Each Other” is one of the most acclaimed albums of 2023. The album features the hit single “Rush,” which earned Sivan his first Grammy nominations.
One More Time… – Blink-182
“One More Time…” marks Blink-182’s first album with the trio reunited since 2005. The album delves into familiar themes like relationships, maturation, and the band’s history. It peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, becoming the band’s third No. 1 LP.
Golden – Jungkook
Jungkook dominated this year with his debut solo album “Golden.” The BTS member first released the hit single “Seven,” which topped several charts and set two Guinness World Records, becoming the fastest song to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify. Then he released two other hit singles from the album: “3D” and “Standing Next To You.”
Heaven Knows – PinkPantheress
Another new artist making a name for herself is PinkPantheress. Following the success of “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2,” the 22-year-old singer unleashed her debut album “Heaven Knows.” She revealed that the album is about “being at peace with yourself in your aloneness.”
Pink Friday 2 – Nicki Minaj
The last artist to make her triumphant return this year has been Nicki Minaj with “Pink Friday 2.” The album is the sequel to her debut LP “Pink Friday” and is Minaj’s first album in nearly six years. “Pink Friday 2” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making Minaj the first female rapper with three number-one albums.
Think Later – Tate McRae
Ending our roundup of the 40 best albums of 2023 is Tate McRae’s “Think Later.” Produced by OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder, the album features the hit single “greedy,” which is McRae’s biggest hit so far as it became her first No. 1 hit on Spotify as well as her first song to reach the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album also features worth-listening songs like “Exes” and “Cut My Hair.”
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