2008 Could Be The Best Year For Commerical Hip-Hop

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There's new albums coming from the genre's biggest stars. No seriously, like THE biggest stars . The untouchables (Dre/Eminem/50). The Shady/Aftermath empire, more specifically, is dropping 3 MAJOR albums. And don't forget about Nasty Nas and Lil Weezyana .

Who: Lil Wayne
What: Tha Carter 3
When: First quarter 2008
Why does it matter: One of the most anticipated albums in a while, Weezy is looking to deliver a classic. Will he?

Who: Dr. Dre
What: Detox
When: 2008
Why does it matter: It's the most anticipated album ever...seriously. I would put money on the fact that it will be a classic album. Put 2001 in your stereo and I bet you couldn't tell it was a 90's rap album. I'm expecting Detox to have a big impact on the hip hop landscape.

Who: Eminem
What: Living Proof: The King Mathers LP (rumored title)
When: 2008
Why does it matter: Em has been keeping quiet, but everything he's dropped post-Encore has been pretty solid. His appearances on the Shady Records collabo album (The Re-Up) gave me hope that he's still hungry. Plus, look what's happened in his life since Encore. Obviously he's got a lot to talk about. I'm expecting a mature Eminem, and hyped up Slim Shady on this album.

Who: Nas
What: Nigger
When: 2008
Why does it matter: Nas has been in great form, and I'm ready to hear some intelligent social commentary from one of the best lyricists alive. I think the title is really offensive, but in a good way. I'm excited for the media's reception of this album, as well as hearing what he has to say.

Who: 50 Cent
What: Before I Self Destruct
When: 2008
Why does it matter: Supposedley 50's last contractual obligation for Interscope Records, Before I Self Destruct is filled with songs with agressive content. You won't find Justin Timberlake on this album, just that gritty 50 that won us over as fans back in the mixtape/Get Rich or Die Trying years (2001-2003). I hope!