Missy Elliott is an icon of the hip-hop and R&B genres, known for her innovative beats, catchy hooks, and groundbreaking music videos. She has earned numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including five Grammy Awards, and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music. With a career spanning over three decades, Missy Elliott has released multiple albums and produced countless hits that have inspired and entertained fans around the world. From her early days as a member of the group Sista to her solo success, Elliott has continually pushed boundaries and broken barriers, becoming one of the most influential and respected artists in the industry. In this article, we will explore the best Missy Elliott songs of all time, delving into their origins, significance, and why they remain timeless classics. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to her music, this list is sure to remind you of the incredible talent and impact of Missy Elliott and why her songs continue to resonate with fans across generations. So, sit back, turn up the volume, and let’s take a journey through some of the greatest Missy Elliott songs ever recorded.
1. “Get Ur Freak On” (2001)
“Get Ur Freak On” is a standout track from Missy Elliott’s 2001 album “Miss E…So Addictive.” The song features Missy’s trademark fusion of hip-hop, electronic beats, and world music influences, with a driving rhythm and a hypnotic melody that have become iconic. The lyrics are a celebration of sexuality and female empowerment, with Missy’s confident and playful delivery adding to the song’s infectious energy. “Get Ur Freak On” is widely considered one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time, and it has been praised for its groundbreaking sound and its influence on the genre.
2. “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” (1997)
“The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” is the lead single from Missy Elliott’s debut album, “Supa Dupa Fly.” Released in 1997, the song features a sample of Ann Peebles’ “I Can’t Stand the Rain,” as well as Missy’s signature quirky production style and playful lyrics. The video for the song, directed by Hype Williams, is a visually stunning and surreal masterpiece, featuring Missy in a series of futuristic outfits and special effects. “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” was a commercial and critical success, and it established Missy as a major force in the music industry.
3. “Work It” (2002)
“Work It” is a catchy and irreverent track from Missy Elliott’s 2002 album “Under Construction.” The song features a playful and tongue-in-cheek take on sexuality and gender roles, with Missy rapping about her sexual prowess and flipping traditional gender expectations. The beat, built around a sample of Run-DMC’s “Peter Piper,” is infectious and danceable, and the song’s iconic chorus has become a cultural touchstone. “Work It” won a Grammy Award for Best Female Rap Solo Performance and remains one of Missy’s most beloved and enduring hits.
4. “Beep Me 911,” featuring 702 and Magoo (1997)
“Beep Me 911” is a classic hip-hop track from Missy Elliott’s debut album “Supa Dupa Fly.” The song features guest vocals from R&B group 702 and rapper Magoo, and it showcases Missy’s signature blend of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music. The lyrics describe a dysfunctional relationship, with Missy urging her lover to call her in case of emergency, despite their frequent fights and arguments. “Beep Me 911” was a hit on the charts and remains a fan favorite, showcasing Missy’s ability to create memorable hooks and catchy melodies.
5. “All N My Grill,” featuring Nicole Wray and Big Boi (1999)
“All N My Grill” is a hit single from Missy Elliott’s second album, “Da Real World.” The song features guest vocals from R&B singer Nicole Wray and rapper Big Boi of Outkast, and it showcases Missy’s trademark blend of hip-hop and R&B. The lyrics describe a confident and independent woman who is pursued by many men, but chooses to remain true to herself. “All N My Grill” was a commercial success and remains a fan favorite, with its catchy hook and infectious beat.
6. “Hot Boyz (remix),” featuring Nas, Eve, Q-Tip and Lil Mo (1999)
“Hot Boyz (remix)” is a standout track from Missy Elliott’s third album, “Miss E…So Addictive.” The song features guest verses from Nas, Eve, and Q-Tip, as well as vocals from R&B singer Lil Mo. The beat is built around a sample of “Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa, and the lyrics celebrate the power and sexuality of women. “Hot Boyz (remix)” was a hit on the charts and remains a classic of late 90s hip-hop, showcasing Missy’s ability to collaborate with other artists and create innovative and memorable tracks.
7. “Sock It 2 Me,” featuring Da Brat (1997)
“Sock It 2 Me” is a standout single from Missy Elliott’s debut album, “Supa Dupa Fly.” The song features guest verses from rapper Da Brat and showcases Missy’s signature blend of hip-hop and R&B. The lyrics are playful and boastful, with Missy and Da Brat rapping about their skills and success. The video for the song, directed by Hype Williams, is a visual tour de force, featuring Missy in a series of futuristic outfits and special effects. “Sock It 2 Me” remains a fan favorite and an important part of Missy’s early discography.
8. “Gossip Folks,” featuring Ludacris (2002)
“Gossip Folks” is a hit single from Missy Elliott’s fifth album, “Under Construction.” The song features guest vocals from rapper Ludacris and samples the beat from “Double Dutch Bus” by Frankie Smith. The lyrics address the perils of fame and gossip, with Missy and Ludacris taking aim at those who spread rumors and negativity. The video for the song, directed by Dave Meyers, is a tribute to the high school comedies of the 1980s, featuring Missy and Ludacris as students in a school full of gossip-mongers. “Gossip Folks” was a commercial success and remains a fan favorite, showcasing Missy’s ability to create catchy and memorable tracks with a message.
9. “She’s a B*tch” (1999)
“She’s a Btch” is a standout single from Missy Elliott’s second album, “Da Real World.” The song features Missy rapping about her own confidence and success, while also calling out those who underestimate or criticize her. The beat is built around a sample of “I’m Chief Kamanawanalea” by The Turtles, and the video features Missy in a variety of outlandish outfits and settings. “She’s a B*tch” was a hit on the charts and remains a classic of late 90s hip-hop, showcasing Missy’s bold and fearless persona.
10. “Pussycat” (2002)
“Pussycat” is a standout track from Missy Elliott’s fifth album, “Under Construction.” The song features Missy rapping over a sample of “Atomic Dog” by George Clinton, with lyrics celebrating her own sexuality and prowess. The chorus features the repeated refrain of “Pussycat meow,” and the video features Missy in a variety of provocative outfits and settings. “Pussycat” was a hit on the charts and remains a fan favorite, showcasing Missy’s ability to create catchy and memorable tracks with a playful and provocative edge.
11. “One Minute Man (remix)” featuring Jay Z (2002)
“One Minute Man (remix)” is a hit single from Missy Elliott’s third album, “Miss E…So Addictive.” The song features a guest verse from rapper Jay Z and samples the beat from “The Big Beat” by Billy Squier. The lyrics describe a man who can’t satisfy a woman’s needs, with Missy and Jay Z both delivering witty and confident verses. “One Minute Man (remix)” was a commercial success and remains a fan favorite, showcasing Missy’s ability to collaborate with other artists and create memorable and empowering tracks.
12. “Wake Up,” featuring Jay Z (2002)
“Wake Up” is a powerful collaboration between Missy Elliott and Jay Z that urges listeners to wake up and make a change. The song is a call to action that addresses issues of social injustice and encourages people to take control of their lives. Elliott and Jay Z deliver passionate verses over a catchy beat, reminding us that we all have the power to make a difference in the world. “Wake Up” is a timeless anthem that continues to inspire and empower listeners today.
13. “I’m Really Hot” (2003)
“I’m Really Hot” is a bold and brassy track that showcases Missy Elliott’s confidence and swagger. The song is a celebration of Elliott’s success and status as a dominant force in the music industry. With a fierce beat and catchy chorus, “I’m Really Hot” is a fun and infectious party anthem that encourages listeners to let loose and have a good time. Elliott’s signature style and unique flow make this track a standout in her impressive discography.
14. “Hit ‘Em Wit Da Hee,” featuring Lil Kim (1997)
“Hit ‘Em Wit Da Hee” is a classic collaboration between Missy Elliott and Lil Kim that showcases their formidable rap skills. The song features a funky beat and infectious chorus, with Elliott and Lil Kim trading verses and delivering clever rhymes. “Hit ‘Em Wit Da Hee” is a testament to Elliott’s versatility as an artist, as she effortlessly blends elements of R&B, hip-hop, and funk to create a unique and memorable track.
15. “Lick Shots” (2001)
“Lick Shots” is a high-energy track that features Missy Elliott rapping over a frenetic beat. The song is a showcase for Elliott’s rapid-fire flow and clever wordplay, as she delivers witty rhymes and catchy hooks. “Lick Shots” is a standout track from Elliott’s acclaimed album “Miss E… So Addictive,” and it remains a fan favorite to this day. With its infectious chorus and memorable verses, “Lick Shots” is a testament to Elliott’s talent and creativity as an artist.
16. “You Don’t Know,” featuring Lil Mo (1999)
“You Don’t Know” is a soulful track that features Missy Elliott and Lil Mo trading verses over a smooth beat. The song is a love letter to Elliott’s hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia, and showcases her love for her community and its people. With Lil Mo’s soulful vocals and Elliott’s laid-back flow, “You Don’t Know” is a beautiful and heartfelt track that speaks to the power of community and the importance of staying true to your roots.
17. “Shake Your Pom Pom” (2008)
“Shake Your Pom Pom” is a high-energy dance track that features Missy Elliott encouraging listeners to let loose and have fun. The song is a celebration of dance and movement, with Elliott’s infectious energy and catchy hooks inspiring listeners to get up and groove. With its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus, “Shake Your Pom Pom” is a perfect party anthem that will get any crowd moving.
18. “Hot Boyz” (2002)
“Hot Boyz” is a fiery and infectious track that features Missy Elliott and guest artists Nas, Eve, and Q-Tip delivering clever rhymes over a hard-hitting beat. The song is a celebration of women who are confident and in control, with Elliott and her collaborators showcasing their talent and swagger as they spit rapid-fire verses over a catchy chorus. “Hot Boyz” was a smash hit upon its release, and remains a classic track in Elliott’s impressive discography. With its bold attitude and powerful message, “Hot Boyz” is a testament to Elliott’s talent as an artist and her status as a dominant force in the music industry.
19. “Funky Fresh Dressed” featuring Ms. Jade (2002)
“Funky Fresh Dressed” is a funky track that features Missy Elliott and Ms. Jade delivering clever rhymes over a classic beat. The song is a celebration of fashion and style, with Elliott and Ms. Jade showcasing their unique fashion sense and urging listeners to embrace their own individuality. With its catchy chorus and infectious energy, “Funky Fresh Dressed” is a fun and upbeat track that will have listeners nodding their heads and dancing along.
20. “Smooth Chick” (1999)
“Smooth Chick” is a smooth and soulful track that features Missy Elliott delivering heartfelt verses over a mellow beat. The song is a tribute to the women in Elliott’s life who have supported her and helped her become the successful artist she is today. With its beautiful melody and touching lyrics, “Smooth Chick” is a poignant and emotional track that showcases Elliott’s talent as a rapper and songwriter.