From Kanye West's genre-defining heartbreak record to Jack Harlow's attempt at Neo-soul, rappers stepping outside hip-hop have a long and fascinating history. Here are the 20 best albums to come out of it.
Dimas SanfiorenzoJack Harlow
Jack Harlow emerged from Louisville’s vibrant rap scene, capturing attention with the breakout moment of his 2020 hit single "Whats Poppin." His music reflects a deep connection to Southern hip-hop traditions while pushing into mainstream pop territory through clever lyricism and catchy hooks. Collaborations with artists like Lil Wayne and DaBaby showcase his role in linking different hip-hop generations and styles. Listeners engage with Harlow’s work through his knack for memorable choruses and confident storytelling that reflects youthful Southern swagger. His tracks often spark viral trends on platforms like TikTok, making his music a staple on streaming playlists for both rap fans and broader audiences. This dynamic interaction fuels his ongoing influence on the sound and culture of modern hip-hop.
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March Madness: Karl-Anthony Towns on Kentucky’s 38-0 Run and the New Era of College Basketball
The Knicks sharpshooter also shares who he thinks is the league's best trash talker and his love for the new Jack Harlow album.
Aaron C. Mansfield
Social media has been reacting to Jack Harlow’s R&B pivot by editing him onto iconic '90s covers.
Dimas Sanfiorenzo
Jack Harlow just released his third LP, 'Jackman.' Is this a comeback record? Members of the Complex editorial staff shared our first-listen thoughts.
Eric SkeltonLatest Stories
Jack Harlow Wears Another Slouched Cap to 2026 Met Gala
The rapper-singer turned his hats into a meme during the release of his latest album, 'Monica.'
Jaelani Turner-Williams78 days ago
Jack Harlow Says ‘Iconic' Ice Spice Is One of His ‘Favorite Artists to Come Out This Decade'
Jack Harlow praised Ice Spice on Instagram, calling her “truly iconic” and naming her one of his favorite artists of the decade.
Mark Elibert83 days ago
Jack Harlow Says His Dad Cried When He Got to Meet Van Hunt
Harlow named a song by Halle Berry's fiancée as one of the most important songs in his life.
Trey Alston86 days ago
Jack Harlow Looks Back on Impact of Kanye West Cosign, Collaboration: 'Very Validating Moment'
Working with Ye, Harlow said, was a "very enriching" experience.
Trace William Cowen88 days ago
Jack Harlow Says Drake Became ‘Best Rapper Alive’ With ‘If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late'
"It was powerful," Harlow added of Drizzy's 2015 mixtape.
tara mahadevan89 days ago
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Jack Harlow Picks Up '12 Angry Men,' '8 ½' and More in The Criterion Closet
Harlow steps into The Criterion Closet to speak on his love for chamber pieces, Sidney Lumet films, and what movie inspired his song “My Winter.”
Jose Martinez99 days ago
Jack Harlow Says His Aunt Thought He Played Himself in ‘SNL’ Parody
He said his aunt was "proud" that he went on 'SNL' and "addressed everything."
tara mahadevan99 days ago
Jack Harlow's Hat In "Say Hello" Music Video Gets Social Media Talking
"I have never seen a hat like this in all my natural life."
Jaelani Turner-Williams101 days ago
Chet Hanks Sneaks in Jack Harlow Photo When Asked What He Looked Like in the 2000s
The 35-year-old son of Tom Hanks is jumping in on the trend featuring "Iris" by the Goo Goo Dolls, but not without some trolling.
Alex Ocho105 days ago
Jack Harlow Announces 17-City Monica Tour: How to Get Tickets
The two-month trek supporting Harlow's fourth album begins August 4 in Brooklyn.
Jaelani Turner-Williams118 days ago
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Charlamagne Tha God on Jack Harlow’s R&B-Influenced Album: ‘It Made Him Whiter’
Harlow has been mired in controversy after he said his music has gotten "Blacker."
tara mahadevan127 days ago
Jack Harlow Explains Simple Reason for 'Blacker' New Album: 'I Love Black Music'
The rapper's fourth studio LP, 'Monica,' has been getting a lot of mixed reviews, with some criticizing it for being too performative.
Jaelani Turner-Williams129 days ago
Jack Harlow Taps Into Electric Lady Studios History on 'Monica,' Earns Soulquarians Comparisons
The 28-year-old opted for one of the most iconic studio spaces on the planet for his latest album.
Trace William Cowen130 days ago
Jack Harlow Talks Coming From 'School of Drake,' Details Current Focus on 'Finding My Voice'
Harlow's new album 'Monica' is out now.
Trace William Cowen130 days ago
Jack Harlow Delivers His Fourth Studio Album ‘Monica’
The Louisville rapper's fourth studio album follows his 2023 project, 'Jackman.'
Jaelani Turner-Williams131 days ago
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