10 Mixtape Releases By Idol Rappers That Are Lit AF

Idol rappers are getting more and more recognition these days, and to showcase their talent and unique style, they often decide to release mixtapes for their fans. It’s a great opportunity for us to get to know the thoughts, feelings, and music style of the artists better as our favorite rappers tend to be more personal with these releases.

Let’s give a listen to some of the greatest idol mixtapes! (In no particular order).

J-Hope (BTS): “Hope World”

This is the release that everyone’s been waiting for! J-Hope finally dropped his mixtape “Hope World” this year and it’s everything I expected and so much more. The music video for “Daydream” is just as colorful and exciting as BTS’s main dancer, and it’s great to see Hobi expressing his one-of-a-kind personality with the new songs.

Yongguk (B.A.P): “Yamazaki”

This bloody and visually stunning MV complements the powerful rapping style of B.A.P’s leader perfectly. “Yamazaki” is heavily influenced by Japanese culture and you can see Yongguk’s unique artistry in the song’s dark lyrics. The catchy beat and Yongguk’s deep voice make it impossible not to like the song!

Agust D (Suga of BTS): “Agust D”

BTS’s rappers are spoiling ARMYs with their mixtapes, and 2016 definitely belonged to Agust D, alias Suga. His first release is raw and personal, filled with deep lyrics and strong beats. The rapper opens up and tells stories about his past, and we even get a glimpse of his confident personality. It’s easy to go with the flow of “Agust D,” and Yoongi proves once again that he is a real “lunatic on beat.”

Zico (Block B): “Zico on the Block 1.5”

The leader of Block B is known as one of the best idol producers of our day, and he’s shown just how amazing he is on numerous mixtape releases. “Zico on the Block 1.5” is filled with heavy lyrics and strong themes as Zico takes the courage to talk about idol life and their trainee days. Just listen to “Battle Royal,” and you will understand why fans appreciate Zico’s honesty so much.

RM (BTS): “RM”

RM was the first in BTS to release a mixtape, but his lyrics are just as relevant and powerful now as they were back in 2015. “RM” reflects on the double life of idol rappers: the contradiction between idol life and their identity as a hip hop artist. “Do You” encourages everyone to be themselves and follow their own style. You don’t really need better advice than this.

Ravi (VIXX): “Nirvana”

Ravi just can’t seem to stop with his mixtape releases, and Starlights are really thankful for him. Following his first mixtape album “R.EBIRTH” from 2016 and his solo debut with “R.EALIZE,” VIXX’s main rapper is back with “Nirvana” this year. Ravi’s lyrics have become more vivid and intense, and “Nirvana” shows great improvements in various aspects. Featuring Park Jimin, the mixtape tells us what Ravi thinks of achieving dreams and discovering new ones.

Jooheon (MONSTA X): “Jungji”

It’s not Jooheon’s latest solo material, but his first mixtape from 2015 is just too epic to ignore. His collaboration with Black Nut, “No No,” surprised everyone with its intense and powerful beat. The lyrics are noteworthy, too! “Stay Strong” features Flowsik, and the rappers talk about their biggest dream, their struggles, and their passion of staying true to themselves.

SEVENTEEN Hip Hop Unit: “LOTTO Remix”

SEVENTEEN’s SoundCloud account is totally worth following, as the members release new songs from time to time. The hip hop unit’s members – S.Coups, Wonwoo, Mingyu, and Vernon – do not disappoint with their mixtape releases. The songs will grab your attention with their upbeat melodies, dynamic flows, and meaningful lyrics. “LOTTO Remix” is just one of the many hidden gems on their Soundcloud!

I.M (MONSTA X): “Fly With Me”

“Fly With Me” is I.M’s first mixtape track to get a music video, and MONSTA X’s youngest expresses his greatest desires and thoughts on the track. Changkyun delivers his smooth rap over the mellow beat wonderfully, and the music video has some really nice aesthetic shots to accompany the song. I can’t wait to hear more from this talented maknae!

P.O (Block B): “Bigboi is ready 2 Showtime”

Block B’s youngest released his first mixtape album back in 2013, and it was a superb way for P.O to define himself as a hip hop artist. The first track “Amino Acid” features P.O’s best friend, WINNER’s Song Mino. The two rappers match each other flawlessly, and they put out some confident lyrics to the world, too.

Which one is your favorite idol mixtape? Tell us in the comments below!

When she’s not studying or working, fanniberger spends her time obsessing over K-pop groups, binge watching dramas and variety shows and drinking way too much bubble tea. She’s currently jamming to SEVENTEEN songs non-stop and waiting for VIXX to come back and slay the world again. Say hi to her on Twitter and Instagram!