10 underrated albums from the 2010s you didn’t know you needed to hear

In the 2010s, there was a significant shift in the way people find and appreciate music. Streaming platforms, curated playlists, and algorithms influencing exposure transformed the landscape, making it more about individual songs and trending moments rather than entire albums.

Consequently, numerous albums with a strong concept, bold creativity, or unique experimentation often went unnoticed due to their lack of instant chart-topping singles or viral hype on social media platforms. The focus wasn’t on the quality of the music itself — it was more about when and where these albums were released.

In the realm of gaming, imagine this: Every week, a new title was released, drowning out the ones that truly mattered. The digital age made games more accessible, but it also made them easier to discard. Some of the most innovative and heartfelt experiences were lost amidst the hype surrounding blockbuster releases or eclipsed by popular, commercial titles.

10 underrated albums of the 2010s

These less-played albums might not have conformed to traditional radio formats, yet they each found unique ways to stretch musical boundaries.

In the 2010s, numerous artists decided to step out of the mainstream limelight in favor of having creative control rather than chart success. Although these albums didn’t reach platinum status, they managed to cultivate dedicated fanbases and exert subtle but potent influence on music trends. With time, their relevance has been rediscovered, demonstrating that lasting impact isn’t always instantaneous, hinting at a hidden power in underestimated works.

Solange – True (2012)

Prior to the release of “A Seat at the Table“, “True ” stood out as a daring declaration in the realm of indie R&B. It seamlessly combined new wave, funk, and poignant heartbreak into a sophisticated, fashionable EP. Although it didn’t top the charts, it paved the way for the alt-R&B trend that emerged subsequently.

Wale – The Album About Nothing (2015)

Although this album had deep introspective topics and closely followed the Seinfeld-like concept, it unfortunately didn’t receive the acclaim it should have. At a point when open vulnerability, wit, and consistency weren’t popular elements in mainstream hip hop, Wale still managed to shine with his honesty, intelligence, and cohesive work.

Tinashe – Aquarius (2014)

With a streamlined design, forward-thinking aesthetic, and music ahead of its era, Aquarius unfortunately struggled due to ineffective promotion. However, it sparked a trend of melancholic, alternative R&B that later propelled artists to fame. Unfortunately, Tinashe arrived too early.

Paramore – Paramore (2013)

Stepping away from their earlier emotional style, this self-named transformation was daring, vibrant, and eclectic in its fusion of genres. Although it may have disappointed some loyal fans, it demonstrated that Paramore was capable of growing while maintaining their essence.

J. Cole – Born Sinner (2013)

On the same day as Kanye’s album “Yeezus,” J. Cole’s “Born Sinner” subtly delivered penetrating lyrics, self-reflection, and maturity. It may not have had the grandeur, but it presented a crucial chapter in Cole’s narrative of his career.

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Miguel – Wildheart (2015)

Following the triumph of “Kaleidoscope Dream”, Miguel delved deeper into guitar-centric experimental music. Opinions among critics varied, but it was daring, deeply personal, and ahead of its time, receiving less recognition than it deserved at that moment.

The 1975 – I like it when you sleep…(2016)

As a dedicated gamer diving into the world of music, I’ve got to say that this double album, though it earned a devoted fanbase, was quite an enigma and expansive for casual listeners. Yet, its fearless blend of synth-pop, ambient, and emo-pop laid the groundwork for genre-bending tunes that dominated the decade.

Vince Staples – Big Fish Theory (2017)

This innovative, heavily electronica-influenced album redefined the boundaries of rap music. While it didn’t resonate with conventional hip-hop listeners initially, it paved the way for future explorations in sound that others would eventually emulate.

JoJo – Mad Love (2016)

JoJo’s highly anticipated comeback was both emotionally powerful and musically impressive, brimming with sincerity. Yet, due to prolonged record label disputes and entertainment business complexities, it failed to receive the recognition and exposure it truly merited. A subdued victory overshadowed by the chaos of the industry.

Janelle Monáe – The Electric Lady (2013)

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my disappointment that while The Electric Lady garnered critical acclaim, it didn’t receive the mainstream adoration it truly deserved. Janelle Monáe masterfully blended funk, soul, sci-fi, and social commentary to create an album brimming with vibrant, visionary concepts. To this day, it continues to feel ahead of its time. The album fearlessly pushed genre boundaries, yet it seems to have fallen short compared to pop contemporaries who aspired to only half the artistic ambition.

The 2010s offered an abundance of music at our fingertips, yet amidst this deluge, some hidden treasures were swept away. These albums may not have topped the charts, but they pushed creative boundaries, ignited new sounds, and left a subtle impact that has only grown more potent with time.

2025-07-07 16:00