Travis Scott, one of the most influential figures in modern hip hop, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unique blend of hip hop, trap, and psychedelic elements. Known for his high-energy performances and atmospheric soundscapes, his albums have not only dominated the charts but have also shaped the direction of contemporary rap. Here’s a look at the top three albums by Travis Scott, each marking a distinct phase in his evolution as an artist.
1. Astroworld (2018)
Undoubtedly, Astroworld is Travis Scott’s magnum opus. Released in 2018, this album was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. The album’s production is lush and cinematic, with Scott blending psychedelic, ambient, and trap influences to create a sound that is both futuristic and grounded in the Southern rap tradition. Tracks like “SICKO MODE” and “STOP TRYING TO BE GOD” became anthems, with Astroworld being praised for its cohesive vision and boundary-pushing creativity. With features from Kanye West, Drake, The Weeknd, and more, Astroworld solidified Scott’s place as a visionary in the rap world, while the accompanying tour (Astroworld Festival) became a cultural event of its own.
2. Rodeo (2015)
Released in 2015, Rodeo is the album that introduced the world to Travis Scott’s signature sound. Combining elements of trap, rock, and psychedelia, Rodeo showed that Scott was more than just another rapper—he was an artist experimenting with genre and pushing boundaries. With standout tracks like “3500,” featuring Future and 2 Chainz, and “Antidote,” the album produced some of Scott’s biggest hits. It also marked the first collaboration with Kanye West on “Piss on Your Grave.” The album’s emotional depth, juxtaposed with its sonic chaos, captured the turbulent nature of Scott’s rise to fame, and it remains one of the defining albums of his career.
3. Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight (2016)
Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight arrived as a follow-up to Rodeo and solidified Travis Scott’s place in the mainstream. Released in 2016, the album is a more introspective and atmospheric work compared to his debut, focusing on mood and vibes over traditional song structures. Tracks like “Goosebumps” (featuring Kendrick Lamar) and “Pick Up the Phone” (with Young Thug and Quavo) became fan favorites, with the album earning critical acclaim for its innovative production and ability to blend moody, ambient elements with hard-hitting beats. The album’s success helped to further establish Scott as one of the most innovative artists of his generation.
Travis Scott’s top albums have consistently pushed the boundaries of hip hop and solidified his place as one of the most influential artists of the 2010s. From the experimental Rodeo to the psychedelic grandeur of Astroworld, and the atmospheric vibes of Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight, each of these albums showcases a unique phase of Scott’s artistry, making them essential listening for anyone interested in the evolution of modern rap.
