It’s still early in December but the holiday shopping season is already in full swing. The lights have been hung, cards have been signed, and presents are to be bought. No matter what you celebrate, ‘tis the season of giving - but running around the mall in search of the ideal gift can be a hassle. With that in mind, we’ve put together a guide of this holiday’s best gifts for the hip-hop heads in your life, whether for family, friends, co-workers, or acquaintances, this guide will help you tick everyone off your list.
Lined up below are some of the freshest gear, audio gadgets, stocking stuffers, books, and habits. If you're looking for a thoughtful gift that won't break the bank, Goodwood NYC's East Coast x West Coast coasters or Hanging With Friends rapper inspired air fresheners will lighten up any rap fan's face. Stillhouse's Classic Whiskey or Ghostface Killah branded WuGoo weed oil is the perfect gift to get the party started. Inspire friends and family alike with Gucci Mane's autobiography or keep your loved ones looking fresh with a pair of OVO x Timberland Boots. Not to mention, VinylMe subscriptions, as well as a turntable and speaker set.
Skip the lineups and take it easy because the list below has gifts that can be delivered directly to your doorstep.
Stocking Stuffers
There seems to be a gift for every occasion this holiday season, so if you don’t want to splash the cash, check out these fun stocking stuffers.
DJ Paul, of Three Six Mafia, is not only a multi-platinum recording artist and an Oscar winner but also the creator of a line of BBQ products. In Memphis fashion, he says his dry rub is "truly the best rub you'll ever rub on your meat." It’s flare and flavour is a gift any soul food lover will appreciate. And don’t forget to add a bag of RapSnacks for munchies later.
For that friend who always gives you a lift, a Hangin With The Homies air freshener is a gift that would bring a smile to any hip-hop fan's face. Inspired by iconic rappers like Eazy-E, Pimp C, and Jazzy Jeff, the air fresheners are available in multiple scents including Apple, Coconut, and the classic New Car Smell. Also inspired by hip hop legends are East West Coasters that front Dr. Dre, Nas and Biggie.
Another notable gift, that you know nobody wants to buy for themselves is a 3-month Tidal subscription. You know they'll love it.
Tech & Audio
Get the music nerd in your life their favourite gift of all - the freshest tech and audio gear. For those aspiring DJs, a Serato DDJ-SB2 is a great starting controller that gives you all the basic functions of mixing without the extra knobs and buttons. The controller also comes with a free Serato DJ license, so just plug in and play.
For those die-hard music fans, a VinylMe Subscription is a gift that keeps on giving. A membership is only $27 a month delivering 3 LPS, 3 artworks and 3 custom cocktail recipes straight to your door, The LP's are based on the music you listen too and the membership also includes unlimited swaps in case you weren’t really feeling the album. The perfect addition to any space is a turntable to play those vinyls and the Victorla Turntable and Speaker Set is a must-have this holiday season. The set comes with a 3-speed turntable and two 50 watt speakers. It also comes with a colorful glossy finish, making it a great gift under $100.
For the old school kids in your life, a Nintendo Superstation is a legendary gift. An exact replica of the original Nintendo Superstation released in 1990, is now available on shelves near you. Best Buy sells a complete set for $79.99 including two controllers. With classic games sold alongside, this is the perfect gift to initiate nostalgia and have some fun.
A smaller but useful buy are some noise-cancelling earbuds with Bluetooth ability. Earphones are easily lost or misplaced and for only $21.99, these LBell Wireless Headphones are good to give or get this season.
Habits
The coming weeks are going to be filled with back-to-back parties and lots of food and drinks, so don’t show up empty handed! These habits are backed by some of the rappers in the game and are a sure way to be loved by any host. A can of Stillhouse Whiskey is the perfect addition to any holiday party. With flavours like Apple Crisp and Red Hot Whiskey, Stillhouse will keep you warm this holiday season. It’s unique packaging also makes it a memorable gift. If you're feeling spicy, Lil Wayne's Bumbu Rum, mixed with a little apple cider, is a sure bet or for those extra special nights, celebrate with Rick Ross' Belaire Rose.
If alcohol isn’t your poison, you can't go wrong with Ghostface Killah's WuGoo weed oil.
Another must-have, that will save you that extra trip to the corner store, is a 40 pack of Backwoods for just $28.99.
Apparel
Leave the extra socks and underwear to Mom, give that hypebeast in your life their favourite gift: swag.
If you're looking for a safe bet anyone will love, the Vans SK8 Hi is a classic closet staple for pretty much any millennial. From vibrant colours and patterns to leather and suede, there's a colorway for everyone's style. For those colder days, especially for those Northerners, the OVO x Timberland boot will keep your feet dry and warm. Available in two colourways, OVO x Timberland will complete any winter look. Layer it up with Fear of God's Everyday Terry Hoodie, and you'll easily be the most stylish this Winter. On extra cold days, UNDEFEATED'S Hockey Jersey fits perfectly under any jacket.
Books
Some would say the best gift of all is the gift of knowledge. Many of hip-hop's favourite voices have dipped their hand in ink and written about their lives, their beliefs, or their favourite recipes. Released earlier this year is Gucci Mane's highly anticipated memoir. Considered one of the most prolific hip-hop artists, Gucci finally tells the story of his captivating life in his own words. From his roots to time behind bars, you won't want to put down this New York Time's Best Seller. Following the same line of inspirational stories, Charlamagne Tha God, the self-proclaimed "Prince of Pissing People off," shared his story of how embracing one's truth is a fundamental key to success in Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It.
For those munchie lovers in your life, Action Bronson's F*ck That's Delicious is a "modern-day Odyssey, replete with orgiastic recipes, world travel, siren songs, and weed."
If memoirs or one-artist specific books aren't your thing then consider The Rap Year Book. This read deconstructs the most important rap songs starting back in 1979. Rated by Billboard as one of the 100 Greatest Music Books of All-Time, this book is a great view of hip-hop's cultural and musical landscape.