T.I.

For anyone wondering what good came out of T.I. catching a year on gun charges, Paper Trail is a good start. The Atlanta rapper has never lacked confidence, and he shines on opener "I'm Illy" over Chuck Diesel's ominous bells and operatic voices, but bearing his soul is where he's exceptional. Tip addresses his legal troubles on "Ready for Whatever," his beef with Shawty Lo on the scathing "What Up, What's Haapnin'" and the murder of his best friend, Philant Johnson, on the "Dead and Gone," featuring Justin Timberlake. This king isn't ready to give up his crown just yet.