A new year means new music and 2013 will deliver some major releases that R&B and hip-hop fans can anxiously look forward to.

For starters, Beyonce is back (when does she ever really leave) and has plans to take over the next 365 days with the announcement of all her major placements. Moreover, we can expect to hear some new music from Mariah Carey, a diva gifted with longevity who continues to shell out hits.

On the rap side, rapper Fabolous, who also has maintained his fan base, may be releasing his long-awaited sixth studio album this year. And former hip-hop freshmen Big Sean and J. Cole will be solidifying their mark in hip-hop with their sophomore LPs. TheDrop.fm rounds up the most anticipated albums for 2013, so mark your calendars, and get ready for an exciting new year of music.

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