There are many albums still anticipated for 2025, but they will face competition asthere have already been some incredible releases this year.These are records that have added to these artists' legacies. They all contain songs that can compete with the biggest hits, including those on platforms such asSpotify with over one billion streams.
In fact, these releases are so impressive thatmany of these artists are using them as the backbone for major tours, and could end up in the category of thebiggest tours of the century. The expectations are high, but this is the greatness they’re capable of. Many of them are already accustomed to playingthe most iconic music festivals.
No matter where these releases take them, their immediate impact has been felt. We have seen rock icons soar to new heights, epic collaborations occur, and overwhelming support across the globe. Thanks to these albums,the first half of 2025 will always be remembered as an extraordinary time for the music industry.
Release Date: July 05, 2025
Bad Bunny is one of the biggest superstars in the world. His music is enjoyed by many, which has led him to major stages. From wrestling for WWE to being part of SNL’s 50th anniversary,Bad Bunny finds numerous ways to extend his reach. One of his next big steps was releasing his sixth studio album,Debí Tirar Más Fotos.
It ended up as the number one record on four different Billboard charts.
This release contains 17 tracks, providing listeners with just over an hour of epic songs. From this, five singles were released, and Bad Bunny performed well on the charts. This includes the rankings of the album overall, as it ended up as the number one record on four differentBillboardcharts, including the coveted 200.
9Lady Gaga - Mayhem
Release Date: Jul 04, 2025
Throughout her career, Lady Gaga has proven there’s nothing she can’t accomplish. From becoming a revered vocalist to being an actress, Lady Gaga knows no bounds.The release ofMayhemadded yet another accolade to her growing legacy, which includes two tremendous collaborative records with the late Tony Bennett. Her latest studio album contains 14 tracks.
Of the songs, a couple have been released as singles. One of those was “Abracadabra,” which is perhaps the most recognized song from this record thus far. This tune has done well for her as it reached as high as the 13th spot on theBillboardHot 100,along with a first-place ranking on their Hot Dance/Pop Songs chart.
8Lil Wayne - Tha Carter VI
Release Date: June 10, 2025
The latest record from Lil Waynemarks the return to hisTha Carterseries. His 2025 release is the sixth installment, with the first dating back to 2004. Although this is his 14th studio album, Lil Wayne continues to go above and beyond with his work. This one alone contains 19 tracks, with over 20 on the bonus editions.
There are many epic collaborations included here, with some of the most notable being Bono from U2, MGK, and 2 Chainz. On the bonus edition, there are more familiar faces, including Nicki Minaj and Future. This has been a success so far, ranking second on theBillboardHot 100 and first on their Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
7Tate McRae - So Close To What
Release Date: August 18, 2025
One of the rising pop stars is Tate McRae. In 2025, she released her third studio album,So Close to What, which became a major success. A significant accolade that the record has received thus far is its first-place ranking on theBillboard200. The placement on the chart drew attention, asit signified McRae as a dominant force.
The standard digital edition of the album contains 15 tracks, while there’s a special edition that includes three more. In addition to being celebrated for the songs,McRae’s performance during the music videos also garnered attention. She was praised for her dancing skills, something that helped her break into the business to begin with.
6Will Smith - Based On A True Story
Release Date: August 11, 2025
After two decades, Will Smith was finally back with his fifth studio album. This consists of 14 tracks, lasting just under 38 minutes. On it, Smith collaborated with major artists such as Big Sean, Joyner Lucas, and Russ. Additionally,he features his own son on the record, along with an old friend, DJ Jazzy Jeff.
Smith has referred to this album as his most personal and impactful.
Smith has referred to this album as his most personal and impactful. After the ups and downs he experienced, it was wonderful to see the iconic entertainer back in a happy place again.This brought Smith’s name back into the public eye for all the right reasons, which listeners enjoyed witnessing.
5Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco - I Said I Loved You First
Release Date: June 19, 2025
The pop genre has seen some of music’s biggest collaborations, and 2025 marked yet another example. This time, real-life couple Selena Gomez and Benny Blancoteamed up to createI Said I Loved You First. This is a 14-track album which extends to 22 on theI Said I Love You First… And You Said It Backdeluxe edition.
While they have both achieved significant success in their solo careers, this has become a major highlight for both. The album has charted in the Top 10 in 15 different countries,including a second-place finish on theBillboard200. It remains to be seen if they will create another collaboration like this, but it is something many would clamor for.
4Joe Jonas - Music For People Who Believe In Love
Release Date: June 03, 2025
While he is known for his work alongside his family as the Jonas Brothers, Joe Jonas has explored a solo career before. 2025 markedhis first time venturing out to create a solo album since his debut in 2011. This was a project that he announced in July 2024 and spent almost a year doing various promotions for its release.
When the album arrived, it was clear that Jonas had put a lot of work into it. The deluxe edition contains another track plus three live performances, adding to the diverse catalog. While seeing Joe perform with his brothers is what many enjoy,it is also great to watch him conquer solo work again.
3Melvins - Thunderball
Release Date: August 01, 2025
Having been around since 1983, the Melvins have made a significant impact on both the rock and metal genres. Over this time,they have produced an astonishing 28 studio albums, with their latest arriving in 2025. Although this record only has five tracks, three are lengthy, providing more than enough for listeners.
What is even more impressive is that, including collaboration albums, this is the eighth piece of work they have created in the 2020s. The band has described their latest work as “beautiful noise” with a “gut-busting groove.” This is a perfect way to put it, andtheir contributions to music continue to be appreciated.
2The Weeknd - Hurry Up Tomorrow
Release Date: June 02, 2025
The Weeknd has worked tirelessly to become one of the biggest stars in the music industry. His sixth studio album,Hurry Up Tomorrow, was yet another crowning achievement for him. The record became a number one hit on both theBillboard200 and their Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, showcasing its greatness.
Throughout the 22 tracks, which last over 84 minutes, there are major names that collaborate with him.
Throughout the 22 tracks, which last over 84 minutes, there are major names that collaborate with him. These include Travis Scott, Lana Del Rey, and Playboi Carti. On theHurry Up Tomorrow 00XOedition, it even includes two bonus tracks. It remains to be seen where it will rank in his overall discography, but it’s off to a great start.
1Ringo Starr - Look Up
Release Date: July 29, 2025
As a member of the Beatles, anything that Ringo Starr does becomes a big deal. It is a thrill to see the musician continuing to perform after decades of being an icon. What many did not expectwas to see Starr try his hand at the country genre. Famously, he has been part of the rock world throughout his career.
Nonetheless, Starr took on the challenge and ultimately succeeded, ranking 27th among the top country albums. This record has taken him to places he has never been in his career,including a debut at the Grand Ole Opry. There is no telling what he might do next, but do not be surprised to see him attempt another challenge.
