Rap music has long been known for its powerful lyrics and energetic beats that often reflect the struggles and triumphs of urban life. Many rap songs deal with the theme of success, which can mean different things to different people. For some, success is about making it to the top of the charts or achieving financial stability, while for others it is about overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth. Whatever your definition of success may be, rap music has a rich history of songs that celebrate it. From classic anthems like “I Got 5 on It” by Luniz to modern-day bangers like “God’s Plan” by Drake, rap music has always been a genre that inspires and motivates its listeners. In this article, we will take a look at 20 of the most inspiring rap songs about success that will get you pumped up and ready to take on the world.
1. “Juicy” by The Notorious B.I.G.
“Juicy” is a classic hip-hop track by The Notorious B.I.G, released in 1994. The song is a nostalgic recollection of Biggie’s journey from poverty to fame as a rapper, with a strong focus on how his success has changed his life. He raps about how he used to dream of having luxury items like a BMW and a Rolex, and now that he has achieved financial success, he is living those dreams. The song is full of bravado, but also has an underlying message about perseverance and determination. The upbeat, soulful sample of Mtume’s “Juicy Fruit” adds to the positive vibes of the song, making it an all-time classic in the hip-hop genre.
2. “Started From The Bottom” by Drake
“Started From The Bottom” is a song by Canadian rapper Drake, released in 2013. The track reflects on Drake’s journey from being an unknown artist to becoming one of the biggest names in the music industry. The song features a catchy beat, with a simple melody and a memorable hook. In the lyrics, Drake speaks about the sacrifices and hard work he put in to get to where he is, as well as the struggles he faced along the way. The message of the song is about determination and perseverance, and serves as a motivational anthem for those who are working towards their goals. “Started From The Bottom” became a hit for Drake, reaching the top ten on the charts in multiple countries and solidifying his position as one of the leading voices in hip-hop.
3. “Neva Eva” by Trillville
“Neva Eva” is a southern hip-hop track by Atlanta-based group Trillville, released in 2003. The song features a bouncy, up tempo beat, with a catchy hook and high-energy verses. The lyrics revolve around the theme of defiance, as Trillville declares that they will never conform to society’s expectations and will always stay true to themselves and their roots. The song is full of braggadocio, with the group rapping about their success and how they’ve risen above their struggles. “Neva Eva” was a hit for Trillville, reaching the top 40 on the US rap charts and solidifying their position as one of the leading voices in southern hip-hop. The song is still remembered as a classic of the genre and a testament to Trillville’s lyrical prowess and catchy, party-ready beats.
4. “Money On My Mind” by Lil Wayne
“Money On My Mind” is a trap song by American rapper Lil Wayne, released in 2013. The track features a hard-hitting beat, with Lil Wayne delivering his lyrics with his signature flow and confident delivery. The lyrics revolve around the theme of wealth and success, with Lil Wayne rapping about his desire for money and the power it brings. He speaks about his ambition and drive to become one of the biggest names in the rap game, and how his focus on making money has been the driving force behind his success. “Money On My Mind” showcases Lil Wayne’s unwavering determination and his relentless pursuit of wealth and success, making it a standout track in his discography. The song’s catchy beat and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite among Lil Wayne fans, cementing its place as one of his most popular tracks.
5. “Forever” by Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Eminem
“Forever” is a hip-hop track by Canadian rapper Drake, American rappers Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Eminem, released in 2009. The song features a dark, haunting beat, with each rapper delivering high-energy verses that showcase their unique styles and lyrical abilities. The lyrics revolve around the theme of immortality and lasting impact, with the rappers declaring that their music and legacies will endure forever. The song is full of braggadocio, with each rapper speaking about their success and their dominance in the rap game. “Forever” was a hit for the four artists, reaching the top ten on the charts in multiple countries and solidifying their positions as some of the biggest names in hip-hop. The song is still remembered as a classic of the genre and a testament to the talent and impact of Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Eminem.
6. “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” by Kanye West
“Can’t Tell Me Nothing” is a song by American rapper Kanye West, released in 2007. The track features a bass-heavy beat, with Kanye delivering his lyrics with his signature blend of confidence and vulnerability. The lyrics revolve around the theme of defiance, with Kanye speaking about his rise to fame and how he won’t let anyone or anything hold him back. He raps about his struggles and the challenges he’s faced, and how his ambition and determination have driven him to become one of the biggest names in the music industry. “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” showcases Kanye’s raw talent and his refusal to be held back by anyone or anything, making it a standout track in his discography. The song’s memorable chorus and high-energy verses have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Kanye’s most popular tracks.
7. “Lucky You” by Eminem
“Lucky You” is a song by American rapper Eminem, released in 2018. The track features guest verses from rapper Joyner Lucas and features a fast-paced beat that showcases Eminem’s signature flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of success and how it’s achieved, with Eminem and Joyner Lucas trading verses about their struggles and perseverance. The song is full of braggadocio, with each rapper speaking about their talent and their drive to become successful. “Lucky You” showcases the technical proficiency of both Eminem and Joyner Lucas, as they deliver their verses with intricate wordplay and rapid-fire delivery. The song was a hit for Eminem, reaching the top ten on the charts in multiple countries and solidifying his position as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
8. “So Ambitious” by Jay-Z
“So Ambitious” is a song by American rapper Jay-Z, released in 2009. The track features guest vocals from rapper Pharrell Williams and features a smooth, soulful beat that perfectly complements Jay-Z’s confident flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of ambition and success, with Jay-Z speaking about his drive and determination to succeed. He raps about his journey from humble beginnings to become one of the biggest names in the music industry, and how his relentless pursuit of success has propelled him to the top. “So Ambitious” showcases Jay-Z’s skills as a rapper, with his intricate wordplay and confident delivery making the song a standout track in his discography. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Jay-Z’s most popular tracks.
9. “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” by 2Pac
“Ambitionz Az A Ridah” is a song by late American rapper 2Pac, released in 1996. The track features a smooth, bass-heavy beat and features 2Pac delivering his lyrics with his signature intense flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of ambition and determination, with 2Pac speaking about his drive to succeed and become one of the biggest names in the rap game. He raps about his struggles and the challenges he’s faced, and how his relentless pursuit of success has propelled him to the top. “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” showcases 2Pac’s raw talent and his unwavering determination, making it a standout track in his discography. The song’s memorable chorus and high-energy verses have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of 2Pac’s most popular tracks. The song is still remembered as a classic of the genre and a testament to 2Pac’s impact and influence on the rap industry.
10. “Stronger” by Kanye West
“Stronger” is a song by American rapper Kanye West, released in 2007. The track features a pulsing electronic beat and samples the classic dance track “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk. The lyrics revolve around the theme of personal growth and perseverance, with Kanye rapping about how adversity and challenges have made him stronger. He speaks about his struggles and the obstacles he’s faced, and how his determination and drive have helped him become one of the biggest names in the music industry. “Stronger” showcases Kanye’s skills as a rapper, with his intricate wordplay and confident delivery making the song a standout track in his discography. The song’s memorable chorus and high-energy verses have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Kanye’s most popular tracks.
11. “Drip Too Hard” by Lil Baby, Gunna
“Drip Too Hard” is a song by American rappers Lil Baby and Gunna, released in 2018. The track features a melodic, trap-infused beat and features both Lil Baby and Gunna delivering their lyrics with a catchy, sing-song flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of flaunting their success and wealth, with the rappers speaking about their extravagant lifestyles and the material possessions they’ve acquired. They rap about their success and the hard work they’ve put in to get where they are, and how they plan to continue their winning streak. “Drip Too Hard” showcases the unique style and chemistry of Lil Baby and Gunna, as they deliver their verses with a catchy, upbeat flow that makes the song instantly memorable. The song’s memorable chorus and high-energy verses have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of the duo’s most popular tracks.
12. “Hustler’s Ambition” by 50 Cent
“Hustler’s Ambition” is a song by American rapper 50 Cent, released in 2005. The track features a hard-hitting, bass-heavy beat and features 50 Cent delivering his lyrics with his signature confident flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of ambition and determination, with 50 Cent speaking about his drive to succeed and become one of the biggest names in the rap game. He raps about his journey from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful rappers of all time, and how his relentless pursuit of success has propelled him to the top. “Hustler’s Ambition” showcases 50 Cent’s skills as a rapper, with his intricate wordplay and confident delivery making the song a standout track in his discography. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of 50 Cent’s most popular tracks.
13. “Live Your Life” by T.I. feat. Rihanna
“Live Your Life” is a song by American rapper T.I. featuring Barbadian singer Rihanna, released in 2008. The track features a smooth, R&B-infused beat and features both T.I. and Rihanna delivering their lyrics with confident and charismatic deliveries. The lyrics revolve around the theme of living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment, with T.I. and Rihanna encouraging listeners to seize the day and make the most of their opportunities. The chorus features Rihanna singing an uplifting and catchy hook, while T.I. delivers his verses with his signature flow, rapping about the importance of living life without regrets. “Live Your Life” showcases the unique styles of T.I. and Rihanna, as they deliver a high-energy and motivational song that encourages listeners to make the most of every moment. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of T.I.’s most popular tracks.
14. “Win” by Jay Rock
“Win” is a song by American rapper Jay Rock, released in 2018. The track features a hard-hitting, bass-driven beat and features Jay Rock delivering his lyrics with a confident and charismatic flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of perseverance and determination, with Jay Rock speaking about his journey to success and the obstacles he’s overcome along the way. He raps about his struggles and the challenges he’s faced, and how his drive and resilience have helped him achieve his goals. “Win” showcases Jay Rock’s skills as a rapper, with his intricate wordplay and powerful delivery making the song a standout track in his discography. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Jay Rock’s most popular tracks. The track is a testament to Jay Rock’s talent and the themes of perseverance and determination, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop music.
15. “Successful” by Drake & Trey Songz
“Successful” is a song by Canadian rapper Drake and American R&B singer Trey Songz, released in 2009. The track features a smooth, R&B-infused beat and features both Drake and Trey Songz delivering their lyrics with confident and charismatic deliveries. The lyrics revolve around the theme of success and ambition, with both artists speaking about their journey to the top and their aspirations for the future. They rap about their drive and determination, and how their success has made them who they are today. “Successful” showcases the unique styles of Drake and Trey Songz, as they deliver a high-energy and motivational song that encourages listeners to strive for success. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Drake and Trey Songz’s most popular tracks. The track is a testament to their talent and the themes of ambition and success, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop and R&B music.
16. “I’m Ready” by The Diplomats
“I’m Ready” is a song by American hip-hop group The Diplomats, released in 2004. The track features a hard-hitting, bass-driven beat and features members of The Diplomats delivering their lyrics with confident and charismatic flows. The lyrics revolve around the theme of being prepared and ready for anything, with the group speaking about their skills and their ability to handle whatever challenges come their way. They rap about their confidence and their drive, and how they are always ready to face any obstacle. “I’m Ready” showcases the talent of The Diplomats as a group, with each member bringing their own unique style and energy to the track. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of The Diplomats’ most popular tracks. The track is a testament to their skills and the themes of confidence and preparation, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop music.
17. “Aston Martin Music” by Rick Ross ft. Drake, Chrisette Michele
“Aston Martin Music” is a song by American rapper Rick Ross, released in 2010. The track features Canadian rapper Drake and R&B singer Chrisette Michele and features a smooth, R&B-infused beat. The lyrics revolve around the theme of luxury and success, with Rick Ross and Drake speaking about their love for the high life and their expensive tastes. They rap about their cars, their homes, and their lifestyles, and how their success has allowed them to enjoy the finer things in life. Chrisette Michele provides the song’s hook, adding a soulful element to the track. “Aston Martin Music” showcases the skills of Rick Ross and Drake as rappers, with their confident deliveries and intricate wordplay making the song a standout track in their discographies. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Rick Ross’ most popular tracks. The track is a testament to the rappers’ talents and the themes of luxury and success, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop music.
18. “Hard In Da Paint” by Waka Flocka Flame
“Hard in da Paint” is a song by American rapper Waka Flocka Flame, released in 2010. The track features a hard-hitting, bass-driven beat and Waka Flocka delivering his lyrics with a signature, high-energy flow. The lyrics revolve around the theme of toughness and determination, with Waka Flocka speaking about his street credentials and his willingness to stand up for himself. He raps about his confidence and his aggression, and how he will do whatever it takes to defend himself and his reputation. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Waka Flocka’s most popular tracks. “Hard in da Paint” showcases Waka Flocka’s skills as a rapper, with his raw energy and charismatic delivery making the song an instant hit. The track is a testament to the rapper’s skills and the themes of toughness and determination, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop music.
19. “Written In The Stars” by Tinie Tempah ft. Eric Turner
“Written in the Stars” is a song by English rapper Tinie Tempah, released in 2010. The track features American singer Eric Turner and showcases a smooth, pop-infused beat. The lyrics revolve around the theme of success and destiny, with Tinie Tempah speaking about his rise to fame and how he feels that his success was written in the stars. He raps about his confidence and his ambition, and how he will not let anyone stand in his way. Eric Turner provides the song’s chorus, adding a soulful element to the track. “Written in the Stars” showcases Tinie Tempah’s skills as a rapper, with his clever wordplay and confident delivery making the song a standout track in his discography. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite, cementing its place as one of Tinie Tempah’s most popular tracks. The track is a testament to the rapper’s skills and the themes of success and destiny, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop and pop music.
20. “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled ft T-Pain, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross & Ludacris
“All I Do Is Win” is a lively and motivational hip-hop song by DJ Khaled featuring T-Pain, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and Ludacris. It was released in 2010 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song boasts a catchy and energetic beat and encourages listeners to embrace their victories, no matter how small. The lyrics promote a positive and confident attitude and declare that the artists, and by extension the listeners, will always come out on top. The song has become an anthem for winners and has been used in sports arenas, movies, and other media.
Simon Robinson 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.
