Ten to One: The Most Anticipated Albums of 2010 (Honorable Mention)

Okay, so some of your favorite artists were thiiis close to making our Most Anticipated Albums of 2010 list. To others, we say "thanks, but no thanks." Below are five additional goodies we're checking for, followed by albums that artists can keep to themselves.

Game, The R.E.D. Album (Interscope) – Jayceon believes in the beats executive producer Pharrell Williams supplied. So much so that he got the Star Trak (Williams’ label) logo tatted on his right arm. And with Ryan Leslie, Robin Thicke, Snoop Dogg, Justin Timberlake, Nicki Minaj, Gucci Mane, Chris Brown and a ton of other guests, the music has to be incredible, right?

Eminem, Relapse 2 (Shady/Aftermath/Interscope) – The sober Slim Shady stood up last year after a few rehab stints and proved his flow was still sick as ever. Since we already got our fix in May, the anticipation isn’t as high. But Mr. Mathers returned to the studio even more clearheaded, so expect a more lucid lyricist this time around.

Nicki Minaj, TBD (Young Money/Universal) – Although half the time she raps like Rosie from The Jetsons, Nicki Minaj has mastered the fine art of combining quirky and sexy. But she's not sliding on looks alone; the girl can rhyme. Her debut album will show if female hip-hop's next great hope is the real thing, or faker than Barbie's figure.

Rick Ross, The Teflon Don (Maybach Music/Def Jam) – The boss stomped on all the critics last year with his critically acclaimed Deeper Than Rap, even putting the cuffs on 50 Cent, who had the most jokes for the former correctional officer. This time around Ricky is lifting his gangster image to untouchable status. With his lyrical improvement obvious and a cast of talented producers, including the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League riding with him, we expect more heat from Miami this year.

The-Dream, Love King (Radio Killa/Def Jam) – Terius spent his first two albums battling hate and money with love, but after putting a ring on Christina Milian this winter, it’s clear that his heart won. What twists and turns will the singer/songwriter’s love rollercoaster take us on now that his love’s locked down? We can’t wait to find out.