Smino Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

Smino's discography is a vibrant blend of funk, soul, and razor-sharp lyricism. His music feels both futuristic and deeply rooted in tradition, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.

Because of this, figuring out the best Smino album often leads to passionate debate among fans. Each project offers a different window into his artistry.

We're exploring the Smino albums ranked, using fan sentiment as our primary guide. This gives us a ground-level view of which records have resonated most deeply.

We'll also look at popularity data to see the full picture.

Ranking Smino's albums: The fan favorites

Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.

We're starting with the most beloved.

1. blkswn (2017)

Smino's debut studio album, `blkswn`, was released to critical acclaim on March 14, 2017.

The release date itself holds special meaning, as 314 is the area code for his hometown of St. Louis.

The album features a host of collaborators, including Ravyn Lenae, Bari, and Noname. Production was handled by frequent partners like Monte Booker, Sango, and THEMpeople.

Key tracks:

• Wild Irish Roses
• Amphetamine

Topping the fan-voted list, `blkswn` is widely regarded as Smino's magnum opus. It's the project that introduced his distinct "futuristic funk" to a wider audience.

Fans consistently point to its cohesive sound and raw, inventive energy as the reasons it remains an essential listen and a landmark debut.

2. NOIR (2018)

Smino's sophomore album, `NOIR`, arrived on November 8, 2018. It was released through his Zero Fatigue collective with Downtown and Interscope Records.

The record continued his collaboration with producers like Monte Booker and Sango while also featuring guest appearances from Dreezy, Valee, and fellow Zero Fatigue members.

Critics praised the album for being lighter and more fun than its predecessor, highlighting Smino's versatile vocal performances and genre-blending sound.

Key tracks:

• Z4L (with Bari & Jay2)
• SUMMER SALT (with Bari)

Coming in at a strong second place, `NOIR` is celebrated for its infectious energy and playful confidence. It proved Smino could evolve his sound without losing the core of what made his debut special.

Many fans see this album as the perfect follow-up, an expansion of his sonic palette that is endlessly replayable.

3. Luv 4 Rent (2022)

Released on October 28, 2022, `Luv 4 Rent` is Smino's third studio album and his first under a new partnership with Motown.

The project features an impressive list of guests, including J. Cole, Lil Uzi Vert, Doechii, and Lucky Daye.

Thematically, the album explores different forms of love—romantic, platonic, and self-love—through Smino's signature clever wordplay and melodic flows.

Key tracks:

• No L's
• Pro Freak (with Doechii, Fatman Scoop)

`Luv 4 Rent` holds a special place for its mature and introspective themes. Fans appreciate the vulnerability and depth Smino brought to this project.

While it may not have the same raw impact as his debut for some, its sophisticated production and thoughtful songwriting make it a cherished part of his catalog.

4. Maybe in Nirvana (2024)

Smino's fourth studio album, `Maybe in Nirvana`, was released on December 6, 2024, as his first fully independent project under Zero Fatigue.

Interestingly, the ten tracks on the album were written and recorded during 2020, even before the creation of `Luv 4 Rent`.

The album includes appearances from artists like Bun B, Thundercat, and Ravyn Lenae, offering a glimpse into a creative period Smino felt was necessary to share.

Key tracks:

• Maybe In Nirvana
• Hoe-nouns (feat. Thundercat & reggie)

As the most recent and chronologically distinct release, `Maybe in Nirvana` is still finding its place within Smino's discography for many listeners.

Its position in the ranking reflects its newer status, with the community still digesting this unique "closure project" and its relationship to his other celebrated works.

Picked your top Smino classic? Check out Smino's discography on their Roll The Record Artist hub.

Smino albums: A look at popularity data

While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.

This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.

Below is a ranking of Smino's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.

Quick FAQs about Smino's albums

Q: What is the significance of the `blkswn` release date?

A: Smino released `blkswn` on March 14 (3/14). This is a nod to the 314 area code of his hometown, St. Louis, Missouri.

Q: Who are some of Smino's key musical influences?

A: He has cited a diverse range of artists, including Kanye West, André 3000, and Lil Wayne, as well as soulful singers like Musiq Soulchild and T-Pain.

So there you have it – a detailed look at the Smino albums ranked by fans and by current engagement.

The fan ranking crowns `blkswn` as the definitive classic, while popularity data shows `Luv 4 Rent` currently leads in streams.

Ultimately, the best Smino album is the one that connects with you personally. Each record offers a unique chapter in his incredible musical journey.

What does your ranking look like? Let us know which Smino album you believe deserves the top spot.