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The 25 Best Rap Debuts of the 21st Century

As you probably already know, today, August 14, 2 Chainz is dropping his much-hyped solo major-label debut,Based on a T.R.U. Story. After his amazing mixtape work in 2011 and sick guest verses this year, Chainz is no doubt aiming to make a classic. Here, in honor of his sky-high aspirations, BET.com counts down the 25 greatest debut rap albums of the 21st century. Though we doubt Chainz will reach the stratospheric heights of the standard-bearing debuts of rap’s 20th-century golden age (Nas’ Illmatic, Eric B & Rakim’s Paid in Full, Biggie’s Ready to Die,etc.), 2 Chainz may be able to barge his way into this list’s upper echelons. —Alex Gale

(Photo: Def Jam Records)

24. Rick Ross, Port of Miami

Though it doesn’t reach the cinematic heights of his later work, 2006’s Port of Miami effectively introduces Ross’ larger-than-life Bawse persona — particularly on the undeniable juggernaut of a lead single, “Hustlin’.”

(Photo: Def Jam Records)

16. Big Sean, Finally Famous

Helmed by beatmasters Kanye West and No I.D., Big Sean’s 2011 debut is clever, catchy and well-rounded, with songs that can capture the charts (“Marvin & Chardonnay”) and strip clubs (“Dance [A$]“) equally well.

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