Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2012: ‘good kid, m.a.a.d city,’ Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar's 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' is, undoubtedly, the best hip-hop album of 2012. Forget about talk of whether it's a classic or not, it's simply a great album -- and in this musical climate, that's hard to come by.

On the project, the 25-year-old rap wunderkind narrates his compelling autobiography about growing up in Compton, Calif., and his experience surviving the perils found hidden in a rough and violent city. Standout tracks include 'Swimming Pools,' 'Poetic Justice,' 'm.A.A.d city' and 'Sing About Me.'

K.Dot ends the album with triumphant songs like 'Compton' and the feel-good 'Now or Never' (featuring Mary J. Blige) as if to say, "I've made it out the 'hood!" Kendrick Lamar's 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' is a major win for both hip-hop and the city of Compton.