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Visual expression has always been a major component of hip hop. Graffiti and tagging, which was (and sadly still is) looked upon as a scourge by the mainstream, is recognized as a legit art form by those connected to the culture -- it's a way for the artist to tell his or her story in a very direct and visible way.
Hip hop album artwork exists in the same space; its a form of portable graffiti, and rap artists over the years have used it to highlight the meaning of their music. Like a primitive tag on a wall or an intricate mural on a train car, each cover conveys a story.
We've gathered some of the most unique hip hop album artworks of all time. Check them out up top.
