The year is almost over, and while the general conception is that major label rap took quite the L this year, there were some major winners in 2014. In fact, rap didn't have the worst year ever. Whether it was Big Sean impressing the fuck out of everyone with his four-track surprise drop, which included the inimitable "IDFWU" anthem or Nicki Minaj crafting her most personal album yet, The Pinkprint, we rounded up 10 artists who truly owned this year.
J. Cole, Wale, D'Angelo, and more top our list, as well. Whether it was reversing negative perceptions about themselves, raising the bar on their craft, or making a great first impression, these artists held it down while elevating their talents. Without further ado, here are the artists who owned 2014.
