

We’re as hooked on Empire’s “Lucious Lyon sound” as we are by the show’s sensational drama. With a team of writers and producers led by Timbaland, Empire’s original songs are dynamic, radio-ready, and insanely catchy. (If you figure out a way to get “Drip Drop” out of your head, let us know.) The multitalented breakout cast is electrifying—Jussie Smollett (Jamal) displays a scorching emotional intensity on soulful tracks like “Good Enough” and “Keep Your Money,” while Yazz (Hakeem) brings cocky exuberance to the swaggering “Can’t Truss ‘Em” and “Power of the Empire.”