Raekwon is one of the most iconic and influential rappers of all time. As a member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, Raekwon has helped to shape the sound and style of hip-hop over the past three decades. With his raw, gritty flow and vivid storytelling, Raekwon has earned a place among the most respected and revered MCs in the genre.
In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Raekwon songs of all time. From classic Wu-Tang Clan tracks to solo efforts, these songs represent the very best of Raekwon’s impressive discography. Each song has been selected based on its impact, influence, and quality, making this list a definitive guide to the best of Raekwon.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Raekwon or a newcomer to his music, this list is sure to provide you with a deeper appreciation for his unique style and talent. So sit back, relax, and prepare to take a journey through the very best of Raekwon’s incredible career as we explore his top 10 greatest songs of all time.
1. Still Strugglin’ – Instrumental
“Still Strugglin’ – Instrumental” by Raekwon is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcases the rapper’s ability to craft intricate beats and layered melodies. The song features a soulful sample from the classic jazz song “Round Midnight” by Thelonious Monk, which is seamlessly interwoven with Raekwon’s signature gritty hip-hop sound. The instrumental track has a melancholic vibe that evokes feelings of struggle and introspection, making it a perfect backdrop for reflection and contemplation. With its smooth rhythm and captivating melodies, “Still Strugglin’ – Instrumental” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the art of instrumental hip-hop.
2. Ice Cream (feat. Ghostface Killah, Method Man & Cappadonna)
“Ice Cream” by Raekwon featuring Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Cappadonna is a classic track from the iconic album “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody that is complemented by the smooth flow of the MCs. The lyrics are playful and filled with clever wordplay, as each rapper takes turns to deliver their verses with a sense of effortless cool. Ghostface Killah’s iconic opening lines, “Wu-Tang’s here to bring the ruckus, Wu-Tang’s here to bring the ruckus,” have become a staple of hip-hop culture, and the song’s catchy hook is instantly recognizable. With its infectious beat, clever rhymes, and memorable chorus, “Ice Cream” is a hip-hop classic that has stood the test of time and remains a beloved favorite among fans of the genre.
3. Guillotine (Swordz) (feat. Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck & GZA (Genius))
“Guillotine (Swordz)” by Raekwon featuring Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, and GZA is a Wu-Tang Clan classic from the album “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.” The song features a haunting melody and a hard-hitting beat that perfectly complements the gritty, raw style of the MCs. Each rapper delivers their verses with precision and skill, showcasing their unique styles and flows. The chorus, which features a sample from the film “Master Killer,” is one of the most iconic in hip-hop history. “Guillotine (Swordz)” is a must-listen for fans of Wu-Tang Clan and anyone who appreciates the art of classic hip-hop.
4. Feel No Pain (feat. Anderson .Paak & Raekwon)
“Feel No Pain” by Raekwon featuring Anderson .Paak is a soulful, introspective track that showcases the rapper’s versatility as an artist. The song features a smooth, jazzy melody and a laid-back beat that perfectly complement Raekwon’s introspective lyrics. Anderson .Paak’s soulful vocals add a touch of warmth and emotion to the track, making it a truly captivating listening experience. “Feel No Pain” is a testament to Raekwon’s ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable to listen to.
5. Can It Be All So Simple (Remix) (feat. Ghostface Killah)
“Can It Be All So Simple (Remix)” by Raekwon featuring Ghostface Killah is a reimagined version of the classic Wu-Tang Clan track. The remix features a slower, more laid-back beat and a soulful sample from the song “The Way We Were” by Gladys Knight and the Pips. Ghostface Killah’s verse is a standout, as he delivers his lyrics with a sense of raw emotion and vulnerability. The remix is a testament to Raekwon’s ability to reinterpret classic tracks and add his own unique spin to them. “Can It Be All So Simple (Remix)” is a must-listen for fans of Wu-Tang Clan and anyone who appreciates the art of classic hip-hop.
6. Iron Maiden
“Iron Maiden” by Raekwon is a classic hip-hop track that features a hard-hitting beat and a sample from the song “Flight of the Iron Maiden” by El Michels Affair. The song features Raekwon’s signature gritty flow and vivid storytelling, as he paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life in the streets. The chorus, which features a sample from the film “The Killer,” is one of the most iconic in hip-hop history. “Iron Maiden” is a must-listen for fans of Raekwon and anyone who appreciates the art of classic hip-hop.
7. Incarcerated Scarfaces
“Incarcerated Scarfaces” is a standout track from Raekwon’s debut solo album “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.” The song features a haunting melody and a hard-hitting beat that perfectly complement Raekwon’s raw, gritty flow. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and powerful storytelling, as Raekwon delves into the harsh realities of life in the streets. “Incarcerated Scarfaces” is a hip-hop classic that has stood the test of time and remains a beloved favorite among fans of the genre.
8. Criminology (feat. Ghostface Killah)
“Criminology” by Raekwon featuring Ghostface Killah is a Wu-Tang Clan classic from the album “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.” The song features a hard-hitting beat and a sample from the film “Shogun Assassin.” Raekwon and Ghostface Killah deliver their verses with precision and skill, showcasing their unique styles and flows. The chorus, which features a sample from the song “You’re a Big Girl Now” by The Stylistics, is one of the most memorable in hip-hop history. “Criminology” is a must-listen for fans of Wu-Tang Clan and anyone who appreciates the art of classic hip-hop.
9. Wu-Gambinos
“Wu-Gambinos” by Raekwon featuring Method Man, RZA, Masta Killa, and Ghostface Killah is a Wu-Tang Clan classic from the album “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.” The song features a hard-hitting beat and a sample from the song “As Long As I’ve Got You” by The Charmels. Each rapper delivers their verses with precision and skill, showcasing their unique styles and flows. The chorus, which features a sample from the song “Summer in the City” by Quincy Jones, is one of the most memorable in hip-hop history. “Wu-Gambinos” is a must-listen for fans of Wu-Tang Clan and anyone who appreciates the art of classic hip-hop.
10. Unpredictable
“Unpredictable” by Raekwon is a soulful, introspective track that showcases the rapper’s ability to craft music that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable to listen to. The song features a smooth, jazzy melody and a laid-back beat that perfectly complement Raekwon’s introspective lyrics. The chorus, which features a sample from the song “Do You Believe” by the Chi-Lites, adds a touch of warmth and emotion to the track. “Unpredictable” is a testament to Raekwon’s versatility as an artist and his ability to create music that resonates with listeners on a deep level. The song is a must-listen for fans of Raekwon and anyone who appreciates the art of classic hip-hop.