OutKast is one of the most influential and innovative rap duos of all time. Comprised of André 3000 and Big Boi, the duo burst onto the scene in the mid-1990s with their debut album, “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik,” and quickly became known for their unique blend of Southern funk, soul, and hip-hop. Over the course of their career, OutKast released six critically acclaimed albums and a slew of classic singles that continue to resonate with fans to this day. In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best OutKast songs of all time. From the smooth and introspective “Elevators” to the frenzied and high-energy “B.O.B (Bombs Over Baghdad),” these tracks showcase the duo’s ability to push the boundaries of what hip-hop could be. Whether you’re a die-hard OutKast fan or new to the duo’s catalog, this list is sure to have something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as we take a trip through the best of OutKast.
10. Da Art of Storytellin’ Pt. 1
“Da Art of Storytellin’ Pt. 1” by OutKast is a classic hip-hop track that showcases the storytelling prowess of André 3000 and Big Boi. The song opens with a sample from the 1976 film “Car Wash” and continues with a soulful and jazzy beat. André 3000 tells a tale of a woman named Sasha and her tragic ending, while Big Boi raps about the struggles of a drug dealer named Tony. The song’s hook, which samples Slick Rick’s “Children’s Story,” emphasizes the importance of storytelling in rap music. Overall, “Da Art of Storytellin’ Pt. 1” is a prime example of OutKast’s ability to blend intricate rhymes with relatable narratives.
9. ATLiens
“ATLiens” is a spacey and atmospheric track from OutKast’s second album of the same name. The song’s title is a reference to their hometown of Atlanta and their outsider status in the rap game. The beat, produced by Organized Noize, features eerie synths and a slow, deliberate tempo. André 3000 and Big Boi trade verses about their experiences as “ATLiens” and the struggle to fit in. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “ATLiens” over and over, is hypnotic and adds to the track’s otherworldly vibe. “ATLiens” is a standout track on an album that solidified OutKast as one of the most innovative and unique rap duos of all time.
8. Babylon
“Babylon” is a socially conscious track from OutKast’s fourth album, “Stankonia.” The song’s beat is built around a sample from George Clinton’s “Atomic Dog,” and features heavy drums and distorted guitar riffs. André 3000 and Big Boi rap about the corruption and greed in society, with André 3000 referencing the biblical story of Babylon and its fall. The song’s hook, which features a choir singing “Babylon, Babylon,” adds to the song’s ominous tone. “Babylon” is a powerful and thought-provoking track that addresses the societal issues that continue to plague us today.
7. Player’s Ball
“Player’s Ball” is a festive and upbeat track that celebrates the holiday season. The song’s beat is built around a sample from Clarence Carter’s “Back Door Santa,” and features jingling bells and funky guitar riffs. André 3000 and Big Boi rap about their experiences growing up poor and using their talents to rise to fame. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “It’s the player’s ball,” adds to the song’s celebratory tone. “Player’s Ball” is a feel-good track that showcases OutKast’s ability to blend humor and introspection.
6. Hey Ya!
“Hey Ya!” is a funky and infectious track that became a massive hit for OutKast in 2003. The song’s beat is built around a sample from the Soul Brothers Six’s “Some Kind of Wonderful,” and features a catchy guitar riff and handclaps. André 3000 delivers a tongue-in-cheek performance as he sings about the ups and downs of love, while the song’s chorus encourages listeners to shake it like a Polaroid picture. “Hey Ya!” is a fun and energetic track that showcases OutKast’s ability to blend different genres and create something truly unique.
5. Elevators
“Elevators” is a smooth and introspective track from OutKast’s second album, “ATLiens.” The song’s beat features a catchy piano melody and a laid-back tempo. André 3000 and Big Boi rap about their rise to fame and the changes that come with success. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Me and you, your momma and your cousin too,” is catchy and memorable. “Elevators” is a standout track on an album that solidified OutKast as one of the most innovative and unique rap duos of all time.
4. Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik
“Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik” is the title track from OutKast’s debut album, and it showcases the duo’s signature Southern sound. The song’s beat is built around a funky bassline and features live instrumentation. André 3000 and Big Boi rap about their experiences growing up in the South and the unique culture that comes with it. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik,” adds to the song’s catchy and memorable nature. “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik” is a classic track that cemented OutKast as one of the most exciting new acts in hip-hop.
3. Rosa Parks
“Rosa Parks” is a funky and upbeat track that pays homage to the iconic civil rights activist. The song’s beat features a catchy bassline and a horn section, and André 3000 and Big Boi rap about the importance of standing up for what you believe in. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Ah ha, hush that fuss,” adds to the song’s infectious energy. “Rosa Parks” is a standout track on OutKast’s fourth album, “Aquemini,” and it showcases the duo’s ability to blend socially conscious lyrics with a catchy and danceable beat.
2. B.O.B (Bombs Over Baghdad)
“B.O.B (Bombs Over Baghdad)” is a frenetic and high-energy track from OutKast’s fourth album, “Stankonia.” The song’s beat features explosive drums and a frantic tempo, and André 3000 and Big Boi rap about the chaos of war and the need for peace. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Bombs over Baghdad,” adds to the song’s frenzied and intense nature. “B.O.B (Bombs Over Baghdad)” is a standout track on an album that pushed the boundaries of what hip-hop could be.
1. Ms. Jackson
“Ms. Jackson” is one of OutKast’s biggest hits, and it remains a classic to this day. The song’s beat features a catchy guitar riff and a bouncy rhythm, and André 3000 and Big Boi rap about the complexities of relationships and the challenges that come with co-parenting. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’m sorry Ms. Jackson, I am for real,” is instantly recognizable and adds to the song’s emotional weight. “Ms. Jackson” is a timeless track that showcases OutKast’s ability to blend personal storytelling with a catchy and memorable hook.
Samuel Moore 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.
