Hip-hop music is a genre that emerged in the 1970s and has since become one of the most popular and influential forms of music in the world. Characterized by its rhythmic beats, spoken-word poetry, and electronic samples, hip-hop songs are known for their lyrical complexity and social commentary.
One of the defining features of hip-hop songs is their use of wordplay and storytelling. Many hip-hop songs tell stories of struggle, triumph, and the realities of life in urban America. The lyrics often deal with social and political issues, such as poverty, racism, and police brutality, and are used to shed light on these issues and call for change.
Another important aspect of hip-hop music is its focus on self-expression and individuality. Many hip-hop songs celebrate the virtues of hard work, self-confidence, and personal success, and they often serve as anthems for marginalized communities.
Hip-hop music has also been instrumental in the development of other forms of popular music, such as R&B, pop, and electronic music. The genre’s influence can be seen in the use of sampling and electronic beats in many contemporary songs.
In summary, hip-hop songs are a powerful form of music that use words and beats to express social commentary, celebrate individuality, and call for change. They have had a profound influence on popular culture and continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
1. “Bodak Yellow” – Cardi B
Cardi B's unforgettable hit, "Bodak Yellow", has secured its spot among the greatest hiphop songs of all time. This masterpiece showcases Cardi B's sharp yet playful lyrics that have taken the world by storm since its debut in 2017. The song features a catchy and addictive beat, skillful delivery of rap verses, and an overall confidence that rightfully earned it the top position among hiphop enthusiasts worldwide.
Furthermore, "Bodak Yellow" highlights the struggles of a female artist trying to make it in the music industry while also celebrating her success. It is no surprise that this song skyrocketed Cardi B to fame and paved the way for her remarkable career filled with more hits like this one.
Additionally, what makes "Bodak Yellow" stand out is its authenticity. Cardi B didn't shy away from embracing her past struggles while maintaining a sense of power and control over her present situation. She proved that being oneself can lead to success without compromising one's values or story.
Don't worry, if you forget the lyrics to 'Lose Yourself', just mumble some mumbo-jumbo like Eminem and nobody will notice.
2. “Lose Yourself” – Eminem
Eminem's "Lose Yourself" is a hip-hop masterpiece that showcases the artist's unmatched lyrical prowess and storytelling ability. Through his gritty rhymes, Eminem takes listeners on a journey of struggle, determination, and redemption. The song's iconic chorus and intense instrumental build-up make it an instant classic, capturing the essence of hip-hop as a genre that empowers those who have faced adversity. "Lose Yourself" has earned critical acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying its place among the 15 best hip-hop songs of all time.
In addition to Eminem's impeccable delivery and wordplay, "Lose Yourself" also carries a powerful message about pursuing one's dreams against all odds. The song is anchored in the idea of seizing opportunities and not allowing fear or doubt to hold one back. It resonates with anyone who has ever dared to chase their aspirations despite facing immense obstacles along the way.
Interestingly, "Lose Yourself" was originally written for the soundtrack of Eminem's semi-autobiographical film debut, “8 Mile”. However, it quickly became clear that the song was too good to simply be part of a movie soundtrack – it was a hit waiting to happen. Once it was released as a single in 2002, "Lose Yourself" dominated charts around the world and continues to be played at parties, weddings, gyms and music festivals across generations.
Sorry Ms. Jackson, but this song is so good it makes me want to call my ex just to thank her for breaking up with me.
3. “Ms. Jackson” – Outcast
This iconic hit by Outcast is known for its catchy chorus and infectious beat.
The introspective lyrics and soulful melody make it an enduring classic in hip-hop history. Outcast delivers a powerful message about family relationships through witty wordplay that is both poignant and entertaining. The music video features a mock baby shower thrown by Ms. Jackson, adding a fun twist to the already-catchy tune.
Despite its massive success, “Ms. Jackson” was not without controversy. Some criticized Outcast for exploiting personal relationships in their lyrics, while others praised them for their honesty and vulnerability. Regardless of opinions, this song remains one of hip-hop's greatest hits.
Outcast's ability to combine raw emotion with musical innovation has solidified their place in hip-hop history. "Ms. Jackson" is just one example of the group's incredible talent for crafting unforgettable tracks that continue to inspire generations of listeners.
When you're in the mood for some paranoia, listen to 'Mind Playing Tricks on Me' and let the Geto Boys take you on a roller coaster of anxiety.
4. “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” – Geto Boys
This iconic track by the Geto Boys has solidified its place as one of the best hip-hop songs of all time with its hauntingly relatable lyrics and funky beat. The song reflects on the paranoia and fear experienced by those who grew up in disadvantaged neighborhoods, and delves into themes such as mental health issues, drug abuse, and police brutality. Through their vivid storytelling, the Geto Boys receive critical acclaim for their raw portrayal of street life.
As one listens to “Mind Playing Tricks on Me”, they are transported to the rough streets of Houston where scarred individuals struggle daily with inner demons and fears. With catchy hooks and memorable verses delivered by Scarface, Willie D, Bushwick Bill, this classic anthem has garnered respect among hip-hop fans worldwide.
What sets this song apart from other hip-hop anthems is how it provides a unique empathy towards vulnerable people, overcoming daily struggles that too often go unnoticed and unrecognized in society. The sensitive lyrical content paired with an undeniable funkadelic beat proves to be a powerful combination that resonates with listeners even today.
If you're looking to understand the early influence and legacy of Southern rap, “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” is a must-listen track. Its story-telling ability captures a snapshot of reality that still holds relevance in present-day music. From getting lost in feelings of paranoia to finding solace through hip-hop beats, “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” remains evergreen to those who resonate with its message.
2Pac's love letter to his mother proves that even the hardest gangsta rapper has a soft spot (and hopefully calls their mom once in a while).
5. “Dear Mama” – 2Pac
This classic hiphop tune represents the genre's lyrical depth and emotional range with its heartfelt ode to Tupac's mother, Afeni Shakur. Through vivid imagery and piercing honesty, Pac tells the story of a complex relationship between mother and son within the context of socio-economic struggle. The song's production is equally evocative, featuring a soulful sample from Joe Sample's “In All My Wildest Dreams” that captures the melancholic mood of Tupac’s words.
It's worth noting the song's impact on popular culture since its release in 1995. Today, "Dear Mama" is recognized as one of Tupac’s signature tracks and remains one of his most beloved songs among fans and casual listeners alike.
The song’s creation was triggered by Tupac’s desire to thank his mother for her unwavering support during tumultuous times. As he recounted in interviews, he wrote the lyrics while in prison after reading an article about Afeni Shakur that touched him deeply. He initially recorded it for her eyes only but later decided to include it on his multi-platinum fourth album "Me Against The World". It would go on to become one of hip-hop’s most revered tracks of all time.
Listen to 'Lost Ones' and remind yourself that even Lauryn Hill won't put up with your bullshit.
6. “Lost Ones” – Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill's “Lost Ones” is a masterpiece that showcases the rapper's lyrical prowess. The song is a morally-infused criticism of the modern music industry and its dishearteningly superficial values. Its beats are a perfect background to Hill's sharp rhymes which, coupled with her powerful voice, create an unforgettable listening experience.
One of the unique features of “Lost Ones” is that it was both written and produced by Hill herself. This gives it a distinct sound that sets it apart from other hip-hop songs in the same genre. Additionally, Hill's use of metaphors and allusions elevates her lyrics to a higher level of depth and artistry.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate “Lost Ones”, pay close attention to Lauryn Hill's lyrics. They are packed with meaning and insight, making this one of the best hip-hop songs ever created.
Public Enemy didn't just fight the power, they knocked it out with this iconic hiphop anthem.
7. “Fight The Power” – Public Enemy
This iconic anthem by the legendary group Public Enemy is an unapologetic call to action against systemic oppression, racism, and inequality. The song highlights the ongoing struggle of African Americans in society and encourages listeners to stand up and fight for their rights. With its powerful lyrics and hard-hitting beats, "Fight The Power" remains a driving force in hip-hop music today.
The song's opening line captures its essence perfectly – "1989, the number another summer"… – as it was released during a time of heightened racial tensions and protests across America. It also showcases the group's unique style of blending political commentary with innovative sonic experimentation, making it both thought-provoking and entertaining.
In addition to being an anthem for social justice, "Fight The Power" has also been widely celebrated for its impact on hip-hop culture. From its memorable performance in Spike Lee's film "Do The Right Thing" to being sampled by countless artists over the years, this song has left an indelible mark on the genre.
It is worth noting that Public Enemy was not simply a musical group but also a political movement that sought to raise awareness about important issues affecting black communities. Their message continues to resonate with audiences today more than three decades after its release, proving their timeless relevance in popular culture.
Source: Rolling Stone Magazine.
Biggie's 'Juicy' is like a sonic time machine that takes you back to the '90s – a time when rappers wore colorful clothes and not just black and white stripes.
8. “Juicy” – Notorious B.I.G.
This song by the renowned Notorious B.I.G has been listed as one of the best hip hop tunes of all time. "Juicy" showcases his unique style and depicts his journey from a struggling rapper to being successful in the industry. The song was released in 1994 and is still relevant today due to its exceptional storytelling skills and catchy beats.
Not only did "Juicy" gain immense popularity, but it also helped establish Biggie Smalls' position as a rap artist. His lyrics were relatable to people from different backgrounds, which made the song a massive hit. The inclusion of nostalgic references to his past- such as his mother's struggle with poverty and gun violence- added depth to the track.
Interestingly, despite the unconventional sampling technique used by producer Puff Daddy, he deftly incorporated a sample from Mtume's 1982 R&B classic, "Juicy Fruit", into this hip hop track. This innovative use of an R&B tune was revolutionary for its time.
Overall, “Juicy” – Notorious B.I.G. continues to be revered by hip hop listeners worldwide due to its authenticity, creativity, and relevance even after all these years. It's proof that music transcends genres and eras and leaves an indelible mark on its listeners' minds.
De La Soul's 'Me Myself and I' proves that you don't need a crew to have a killer track, just three funky geniuses from Long Island.
9. “Me Myself and I” – De La Soul
This iconic hiphop classic by De La Soul is a remarkable depiction of self-love and individuality. With its catchy beats, youthful sound, and laid-back flow, the song has found a place in the hearts of millions. The lyrics are bold, empowering and inspiring for anyone who listens to it.
The song carries an essence of being totally unique and true to oneself. It encourages people to embrace their own personalities confidently without any judgments or criticism from others. The smoothness of the rap reflects the confidence they exude in themselves.
One unique aspect that adds flavor to this track is that it mostly consists of samples chopped up perfectly throughout the entire record. The tasteful use of samples gives it a fascinating character that cannot be replicated.
It's fascinating to learn how its lyrics played a significant role in breaking down barriers for young black Americans when they were struggling with identity issues back in the late 80s. This track surely gave them something they could relate to on an emotional level while also representing a new wave of rap music with African rhythms as well as borrowed sounds from great jazz artists.
"Riding down the West Coast never sounded so badass, thanks to 2Pac and Dr. Dre's 'California Love'."
10. “California Love” – 2Pac and Dr. Dre
This hit single from 2Pac and Dr. Dre is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. The track, famously featuring Roger Troutman on the chorus, is an ode to the Golden State that showcases 2Pac's lyrical prowess and Dre's production genius. It's an anthem that has been embraced by hip-hop fans worldwide, and its influence can be heard in countless other tracks throughout the genre's history.
"California Love" was released in May 1995 as the lead single from 2Pac's album All Eyez on Me. The song became an instant hit, debuting at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying there for two weeks. The track also won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 1997.
One of the most impressive aspects of "California Love" is how it manages to capture the spirit of West Coast hip-hop while also incorporating elements of funk, soul, and rock music. The opening synth riff alone is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for what's to come.
If you're a true hip-hop fan, "California Love" should be at the top of your must-listen list. Its iconic status in both pop culture and music history make it essential listening for anyone looking to fully embrace all that this genre has to offer.
Don't miss out on this masterpiece – add "California Love" to your playlist today.
Jay Z's got 99 problems, but this song ain't one of them.
11. “99 Problems” – Jay Z
Jay Z's legendary hit, ranked 11th among the "15 Best Hiphop Songs of All Time," is a raw and hard-hitting rap track. The song's gritty lyrics describe Jay Z's encounters with the law enforcement system over the years. It provides an unvarnished and intimate look at his struggles with racism, police brutality, and injustice in America. In this timeless classic, Jay Z portrays a confrontational and rebellious persona that makes his message all the more powerful and thought-provoking. This song serves as a reminder of the systemic issues prevalent in American society today.
In "99 Problems," Jay Z utilizes clever wordplay to convey how he deals with run-ins with the police. With its heavy bassline and catchy beat, this song still resonates with music fans worldwide almost two decades later. The song features a sample from Billy Squier’s hip-hop-infused rock track “The Big Beat,” which has become iconic in its own right. Additionally, "99 Problems" won critical acclaim when it was released and remains one of Jay Z's most popular songs to date.
Overall, "99 Problems" exemplifies how hip hop can be used as a means for social commentary on larger societal issues such as race relations, police brutality, and inequality in America. This anthem has influenced other rappers to address similar themes present in their music, elevating the genre beyond entertainment value alone. Like many other great songs of our time, "99 Problems" has left a lasting legacy and continues to inspire future generations of musicians brave enough to speak their truth through their art.
You don't need to be religious to appreciate the heavenly flow of Kanye's 'Jesus Walks'.
12. “Jesus Walks” – Kanye West
Kanye West's timeless classic "Jesus Walks" is a resounding anthem for spiritual and social justice. The song addresses themes of faith, redemption, and struggles against racism and oppression, all while delivering clever wordplay over a sample of the Arc Choir. Utilizing his signature cadence and emotional delivery, Kanye delivers a powerful message that still resonates with audiences today.
Get ready to party like it's your birthday with 50 Cent's 'In Da Club' making the cut for the 15 Best Hiphop Songs of All Time.
13. “In Da Club” – 50 Cent
50 Cent's mega-hit "In Da Club" is a timeless classic that continues to play in nightclubs and parties worldwide. The song’s infectious beats and catchy lyrics continue to captivate listeners of all ages.
As one of the standout tracks on 50 Cent's debut album ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’, "In Da Club" offers a perfect combination of hard-hitting hip-hop beats and relatable lyrical content that explores themes of fame, fortune, and success.
Interestingly, fans have noted that the iconic opening line “Go shorty, it’s your birthday” was originally intended for another artist before 50 Cent decided to use it for his own purposes. Nonetheless, the line remains an endlessly popular way to get a crowd moving.
For those who haven't heard "In Da Club," this song is a must-listen for anyone interested in hip-hop or music in general. Its cultural significance only continues to grow with time, making it an essential part of any collection. Don't miss out on experiencing this classic tune!
Roddy Ricch's 'The Box' is proof that you don't need a flashy music video or complex lyrics to dominate the charts, just a catchy beat and a meme-worthy chorus.
14. “The Box” – Roddy Ricch
This hip hop classic from Roddy Ricch, one of the best rappers of all time according to critics, boasts both musical nuance and storytelling power.
With a perfect blend of catchy beats and soulful lyrics, “The Box” speaks to the struggle for authenticity in modern hip hop. Its impressive commercial success makes it clear that quality artistry can still top chart rankings.
Ricch's understated vocal delivery pairs with an addictive melody that listeners will struggle to get out of their head. The song also features a unique percussion drive that gives it an irresistible punch. What really sets this track apart is the bracing honesty with which Ricch delivers his poetic musings about life, love, and loss.
Listeners will find themselves caught up in the infectious energy of this memorable song as they ponder their place in the world. Whether blasting through high-end speakers or played on repeat through headphones, “The Box” cements its place in hip hop history as a standout single from an emerging artist at the peak of their creative powers.
With its raw, unfiltered exploration of universal themes set against hip hop's instantly recognizable beats and rhythms, “The Box” deserves every accolade thrown its way. If you haven't already memorized every lyric to this song, take some time now to appreciate why it belongs on any respectable "best hiphop songs" list with its unmatched brilliance and depth.
Nicki Minaj's 'Starships' may not be the greatest hiphop song of all time, but it's definitely the perfect anthem for anyone who loves glitter, unicorns, and questionable life choices.
15. “Starships” – Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj's hit song that stands 15th among the greatest Hip-Hop songs of all time is a spectacle in itself. The song "Starships" showcases her versatility, with pop elements and catchy hooks seamlessly blended into the rap culture. The electro-pop beats make it the perfect party anthem, providing an upbeat vibe that uplifts listeners.
Minaj's fierce energy and expression, backed by thoughtful lyrics about pursuing one's dreams, make this track a timeless banger. She unleashes her iconic flow, making it perfect for both head-bobbing and singing along to – a feat accomplished by few.
The song has amassed over 900 million views on YouTube and has won multiple awards worldwide since its release in 2012. It remains an everlasting favourite among fans as well as music critics who consider "Starships" a significant benchmark for rap music's artistic evolution.
With its explosive chorus and lively aura, "Starships" serves as an evergreen reminder that Hip-Hop isn't limited to serious issues or deep-rooted social problems; it can be enjoyed for pure entertainment value as well.
Listeners may follow Nicki Minaj's steps to keep pulling up their anchors when times get tough. Looking beyond the scope of conventional Hip-Hop, listeners find inspiration in this classic tune and strive towards their aspirations while relishing themselves in joyous merriment.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
