Nas/Talib Kweli/ Jay Electronica

With all the controversy surrounding the title of Nas' ninth studio album, Untitled (previously named Nigger) has become one of the most talked about albums of the year. Nas reportedly changed its name due to pressure from various sources; Wal-Mart said they would not sell the album under the previous moniker, and Def Jam Chairman L.A. Reid was said to have received phone calls from the White House regarding the matter. In any event, the album debuted at No. 1 and has received much acclaim for its insightful lyricism and diverse production. Also performing is Talib Kweli, fresh off his most successful album to date, 2007's Eardrum. Rounding out the bill is up-and-comer Jay Electronica from New Orleans, who goes against the grain of conventional "Southern rap."