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Vince Staples Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

Published on June 13, 2025in Best Albums

Vince Staples stands as one of modern hip-hop's most compelling and consistent voices.

His discography offers sharp lyricism and evolving soundscapes.

Today, we're diving into the Vince Staples albums ranked, focusing primarily on what the fans hold dear. We'll explore which projects resonate most deeply within his listener base, aiming to understand what might be considered the best Vince Staples albums from their perspective.

Later, we'll glance at how these records fare in terms of broader popularity data.

Ranking Vince Staples'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. Big Fish Theory (2017)

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Released in 2017, Big Fish Theory is the second studio album from Vince Staples.

It showcases an avant-garde style, heavily leaning into electronic club music like house and Detroit techno.

The album features production from a diverse group including Sophie, Justin Vernon, and Flume. Guest vocalists include Kendrick Lamar, Kilo Kish, and Damon Albarn.

Big Fish Theory received widespread acclaim from critics. It debuted at number 16 on the US Billboard 200.

Key tracks:

  • Big Fish
  • Yeah Right

Securing the top spot in our fan-driven ranking, Big Fish Theory clearly made a massive impact.

Its bold dive into electronic and dance-oriented sounds, paired with Staples' incisive commentary, is frequently highlighted by fans as a groundbreaking moment in his discography.


2. Dark Times (2024)

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Dark Times, released in 2024, is Vince Staples' sixth studio album.

This project marked his final release with Def Jam Recordings.

Production was primarily handled by longtime collaborators Michael Uzowuru and LeKen Taylor. Notably, it's his first album without featured vocalists, though artists like Kilo Kish and Santigold provide additional contributions.

Key tracks:

  • Black&Blue
  • Little Homies

As a very recent release, Dark Times has quickly resonated with fans, landing high on this list.

Its introspective nature and focused production likely contribute to its strong immediate reception, suggesting a powerful connection with listeners seeking Staples' signature lyrical depth.


3. Vince Staples (2021)

Image from article: Vince Staples Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

The self-titled album, Vince Staples, arrived in 2021 as his fourth studio effort.

At just over 22 minutes, it's the shortest album in his discography.

Production was entirely handled by Kenny Beats, who also produced most of FM!. The album features a single guest appearance from Fousheé.

Vince Staples received acclaim for its conversational lyrics and distinctive production.

Key tracks:

  • ARE YOU WITH THAT?
  • SUNDOWN TOWN

The self-titled project holds a special place for many fans, evident by its strong ranking.

Its concise, deeply personal, and cohesive sound, largely thanks to Kenny Beats' production, offers an intimate listening experience that many find compelling and replayable.


4. RAMONA PARK BROKE MY HEART (2022)

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RAMONA PARK BROKE MY HEART is Vince Staples' fifth studio album, released in 2022.

It features guest appearances from Mustard, Lil Baby, and Ty Dolla Sign.

The album shares the conversational themes of its predecessor, Vince Staples (2021), with production from collaborators like LeKen Taylor and Dahi.

Key tracks:

  • WHEN SPARKS FLY
  • MAGIC

This album is cherished by fans for its immersive storytelling and deep connection to Staples' roots in Long Beach.

Its blend of vivid narratives and smooth production builds on the intimacy of his self-titled work, resonating strongly with those who appreciate his more autobiographical material.


5. Hell Can Wait (2014)

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Hell Can Wait, released in 2014, is the first official EP by Vince Staples.

It marked his first commercial project under Def Jam Recordings.

The EP was met with critical acclaim upon its release.

Key tracks:

  • Blue Suede
  • Limos

As an early EP, Hell Can Wait holds significance for fans as a raw and potent introduction to Vince Staples' talent.

Its powerful statement and critical success laid important groundwork for his subsequent full-length albums, earning it a respected spot in his catalog.


6. Prima Donna (2016)

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Released in August 2016, Prima Donna is a seven-track EP from Vince Staples.

This conceptual project was notably accompanied by a short film.

It offered another concise yet impactful look into Staples' artistic vision during this period.

Key tracks:

  • Prima Donna
  • Loco

The Prima Donna EP is often appreciated by fans for its artistic ambition and the accompanying visual component.

While EPs can sometimes have a different kind of impact than full albums, its conceptual depth and dark themes have made it a memorable project for many listeners.


7. Summertime '06 (2015)

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Summertime '06 is the debut studio double album by Vince Staples, released in 2015.

Primarily produced by No I.D., it also features work from DJ Dahi and Clams Casino.

The album received widespread acclaim for its production and Staples' lyricism, debuting at number 39 on the US Billboard 200.

Key tracks:

  • Norf Norf
  • Summertime

As his ambitious debut full-length, Summertime '06 is a landmark project.

While highly praised by critics, its extensive length as a double album might lead some fans to favor his more concise works in terms of repeated listening, explaining its position here despite its foundational importance.


8. FM! (2018)

Image from article: Vince Staples Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

Vince Staples released his third studio album, FM!, in 2018.

Produced primarily by Kenny Beats, the album is uniquely framed as a radio station takeover.

It features recurring skits hosted by Los Angeles radio personality Big Boy.

Key tracks:

  • FUN!
  • Feels Like Summer

FM! is often seen as a creative and fun project with its distinct radio concept.

Its brevity and conceptual framework are highlights for many, though its experimental nature might place it differently in fan preferences compared to his more traditional album structures.


Picked your top Vince Staples track? Check out Vince Staples' discography and chart history on his Artist hub.


Vince Staples 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 Vince Staples's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.

Popularity RankAlbum TitleRelease Year
1Dark Times2024
2RAMONA PARK BROKE MY HEART2022
3Summertime '062015
4Big Fish Theory2017
5Vince Staples2021
6Hell Can Wait2014
7FM!2018
8Prima Donna2016

Quick FAQs about Vince Staples's albums

Q: What was the musical style of Big Fish Theory?

A: Big Fish Theory leaned into an avant-garde style, heavily influenced by electronic club music genres such as house and Detroit techno. Its sound was notably different from traditional hip-hop.

Q: What lyrical themes did Vince Staples explore on Big Fish Theory?

A: The album's lyrics are often described as nihilistic. They touch on themes of politics, suicide, racism, success, and fame, delivered with Staples' characteristic sharp wit.


Ranking music is always a fascinating exercise, isn't it?

The Vince Staples albums ranked here reflect a strong appreciation for his artistic evolution and fearless experimentation, particularly with fan-favorite Big Fish Theory.

Ultimately, the "best" Vince Staples album is the one that connects with you the most. Each project offers a unique window into his world and artistry.

What does your personal ranking of Vince Staples's albums look like? Which one stands out as his definitive work for you?