The hip-hop world is filled with artists who are always setting new limits and breaking stereotypes with their music. In this article, we will see the 120 best rap songs of all time that have stood the test of time and continue to do so fiercely.
The songs you find on this list may even be on the Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs of All Time list so keep an eye out for any favorites! But do keep in mind that music is subjective so you may not like all the songs we have listed in this article.
Here are the best rap songs of all time, listed:
- New York State of Mind
- The Message
- Nuthin’ But a ‘G Thang
- Rapper’s Delight
- Juicy
- Fight the Power
- Alright
- Rock the Bells
- Planet Rock
- Fuck Tha Police
- It’s Like That
- Straight Outta Compton
- Paid in Full
- Mind Playing Tricks On Me
- C.R.E.A.M
- Jesus Walks
- B.O.B
- They Reminicse Over You TROY
- Shook Ones, Pt II
- Childrens Story
- Gin & Juice
- La-Di-Da-Di
- Work It
- Rosa Parks
- Stan
- Humble
- It Was a Good Day
- Rebel Without a Pause
- Me Myself and I
- The Show
- Big Pimpin’
- The Bridge is Over
- Peter Piper
- 99 Problems
- Dear Mama
- Many Men (Wish Death)
- Paul Revere
- In Da Club
- Check the Rhime
- Grindin’
- I Used To Love H.E.R.
- Award Tour
- Strictly Business
- Sucker MCs
- Shed So Many Tears
- Push It
- Scenario
- How I Could Just Kill a Man
- I Know You Got A Soul
- Exhibit C
- It Takes Two
- Ms Jackson
- Aint No Half-Steppin’
- Paper Planes
- Passin’ Me By
- Flava In Ya Ear
- Mass Appeal
- Set It Off
- Lose Yourself
- Hypnotize
- Boyz-n-the-Hood
- Mama Said Knock You Out
- I Really Mean It
- Get Ur Freak On
- I Need Love
- My Name Is
- The Crossroads
- U.N.I.T.Y.
- The Breaks
- Eye Know
- Murder Was The Case
- 6 in the Mornin’
- Just A Friend
- What You Know
- California Love
- A Milli
- South Bronx
- Regulate
- The Choice is Yours (Revisited)
- Lost Ones
- Get At Me Dog
- Triumph
- Protect Ya Neck
- That’s the Joint
- Deep Cover
- Lyte As a Rock
- The Symphony
- Gangsta’s Paradise
- Come Clean
- I Got 5 On It
- You Got Me
- King Of Rock
- Freaks Come Out At Night
- White Lines (Don’t Do It)
- No Vaseline
- Hold It, Now Hit It
- Bust a Move
- m.A.A.d City
- Baby Got Back
- Brooklyn’s Finest
- Slowdown
- Hip-hop
- Bring The Pain
- Brooklyn Zoo
- All Caps
- Ni**as in Paris
- Follow The Leader
- I Seen A Man Die
- Respiration
- Ante Up
- Criminology
- Woo-Hah (Got U All In Check)
- Can I Kick It
- Get Money
- Ego Trippin’
- O.P.P.
- The Rain
- You Gots No Chill
- Super Freaky Girl
- It Ain’t Hard To Tell
1. New York State of Mind
This song is by Billy Joel and expresses the soul, energy, and culture of New York City. This song is a lyrical journey taking you through the thriving streets of New York, and if you love the concrete jungle then you have to check this song out.
The song went platinum in the US with over a million records sold and became a fan favorite and one that is played by Joel regularly in his concerts.
2. The Message
This song by Grandmaster Flash and Furious Five that debuted in 1982. This song highlights the fall of sociological standards in the city of the Bronx, the struggles faced by its residents and the growth of poverty.
It became an anthem for those living in harsh conditions. As a call for social awareness, it became an iconic song and was ranked the #1 track of the year in 1982 by NME.
3. Nuthin’ But a ‘G Thang
This song by Dr.Dre, featuring Snoop Dogg, portrayed the West Coast hip hop scene. Its funky beat and catchy tune introduced a new style to hip-hop.
The record went platinum with over a million copies sold and was ranked among Billboards’ top 100 in 1900.
4. Rapper’s Delight
The Super Hill Gang released Rapper’s Delight which helped bring rap music to the mainstream and to the global audience. It is considered one of the most impactful songs on Hip Hop and influences generations to come
The song was featured worldwide and was also ranked in Billboard’s Top 100. I recommend you check this catchy song out!
5. Juicy
Juicy was released in the debut album “Ready to Die ” by Notorious B.I.G, also known as Biggie. The song expresses the struggles of poverty faced by the rapper and his journey to fame.
Biggie’s realistic storytelling rap flow is obvious from this song. This track ended up being ranked 27 by the US Billboard Hot 100 and became platinum over six times.
6. Fight the Power
This song was released by Public Enemy and was featured in the movie Do The Right Thing. It talks about racial and social injustice. The track has been part of social movements such as Black Lives Matter hence you can guess the impact it had.
I really like this song and would suggest you check it out as well. It was featured in Billboard’s Hot Rap Singles.
7. Alright
This song was released on Kendrick Lamar’s album ”To Pimp a Butterfly”. Its chorus “We gon’ be alright” became an anthem in 2015. During a time of social unjustice, it became a ray of hope.
The lyrics synchronize beautifully with the jazz tunes making the song unforgettable. The song also won Kendrick a Grammy Award.
8. Rock the Bells
Rock the Bells made its debut in 1985 in LL Cool J’s album Radio. The song stands out among its genre as it emphasizes people uniting and coming together.
The song was featured on multiple games among which are Scarface: The World is Yours and Skate.
9. Planet Rock
Afrika Bambaataa released this song that has an innovative style of electro beats mixed with hip-hop. The song is unique because of its sound and I would recommend you to give it a listen.
The simplistic style of lyrics makes the track memorable and fun to listen to. The track immediately rose to fame and ended up selling a million copies.
10. Fuck Tha Police
Fuck tha Police by N.W.A is a controversial track that sheds light on police brutality and racism against black people. The track is often criticized for its strong language, but loved by many for the reality it shows.
The phrase ”Fuck Tha Police” has been popularized over the years and the song itself has earned a gold certification.
11. It’s Like That
It’s Like That is a legendary hip-hop song by Run-DMC. This song stands out due to its minimalistic beat and amazing lyrics.
This track laid the foundation for Run DMC’s career and earned over 10 platinum certifications.
12. Straight Outta Compton
Straight Outta Compton is another hit on this list by N.W.A. This song describes the life of the residents of Compton and their struggles. This song also became an anthem of resistance against police brutality.
This song sold over three million copies in the US alone and I guess that speaks for the popularity of this song itself.
13. Paid in Full
Released by Eric B. and Rakim in 1987 Paid in Full is a classical rap song. Along with jazz tunes and unforgettable rhythm, this masterpiece set a new standard in the hip-hop world.
Rakim’s brilliant lyrical style led to the song earning a platinum certification.
14. Mind Playing Tricks On Me
Geto Boys released this legendary track in 1991. The song explores the mental struggles of a person in life. It talks about the harsh realities of life and the mental health effects it has.
The song was featured on the Billboard Hot 100 and ended up with a gold certification.
15. C.R.E.A.M
C.R.E.A.M, short for Cash Rules Everything Around Me, was released by Wu-Tang Clan in their debut album. The song sheds light on the importance of financial stability in life and how the lack of it can impact a person.
Due to the song’s impact, it ended up with a gold certification in the US and UK.
16. Jesus Walks
While Kanye West may not be my favorite person on the planet, the impact of his song Jesus Walks cannot be denied. Released in 2004 the song argues on the reason as to why songs about guns and drugs have become so common compared to songs about faith.
The song went platinum 3 times in the US. If you are a believer then I suggest checking this one out.
17. B.O.B
Outkast’s song B.O.B is known for its super-fast verses and extreme use of instruments. The song’s music video keeps up with the fast rhythm, high tempo, electric guitars, and drums by using vibrant imagery.
This is one of my favorites on the list and I’m not the only one as the song went platinum in the US.
18. They Reminisce Over You (TROY)
This song is a classic by Pete Rock and CL Smooth. The song pays tribute to T-Roy, a close friend and former member of Heavy D and the Boyz who tragically passed away.
The lyrics pay homage to the singer who was loved by many.
19. Shook Ones, Pt II
Mobb Deep’s blunt lyrics and creativity are displayed in this classic rap track. The song is about individuals with a tough exterior presence but on the inside they are fearful at the same time.
The song ended up being platinum in the UK and I urge you to check it out.
20. Children’s Story
Slick Rick displayed his storytelling skills in this song released in 1988 in his debut album. Rick discusses the life of crime and a series of unfortunate events that went down in his life.
The song topped the charts back in 1989 and gained popularity which started Slick Rick’s career.
21. Gin & Juice
Snoop Dogg released Gin & Juice in his debut album. This song set itself apart with its laid-back, and chill vibe. You may have even heard it playing at many parties.
The song ranked #1 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs and is a must-listen.
22. La-Di-Da-Di
Another Slick Rick son on this list is La-Di-Da-Di which is the track that laid the foundation for beatboxing mixed with rap. The song chorus “Ladi Dadi, We like to party” provides a rhythmic tune to the song.
The song was also covered on Snoop Dogg’s debut album Doggystyle.
23. Work It
Of course, Missy Elliot was going to be on this list, the rapper who paved the way for other women in rap. The song is a masterpiece that topped the charts upon its release.
Work It promoted the idea of hard work and empowerment. The song’s unique style led it going platinum 3 times along with many other certifications.
24. Rosa Parks
There are several songs on Rosa Parks but the one on this list is by OutKast. It celebrates Rosa Parks’s legendary display of civil disobedience and the role it played in the civil rights movement.
The song was liked by many except Rosa Parks herself who criticized the vulgar language and even filed a lawsuit against the rapper.
25. Stan
Stan is an emotional masterpiece by Eminem. The song tells a story of an obsessed fan named stan. The track is so popular that the now “Stan culture” aka fans being obsessed with artists, is named after this song.
The song has multiple platinum certifications marking it as a global masterpiece.
26. Humble
Humble by Kendrick Lamar will always be my favorite due to its catchy music that makes you want to dance and also because of its lyrics. The song urges people to not let their ego get too big and to stay humble.
The song went diamond in two countries and I think that is enough to convince you to stream this song immediately.
27. It Was a Good Day
Ice Cube knew what he was doing when he released this chill and laid-back rap song. Instead of focusing on the hardships in life, he raps about the stress-free days in LA. The song is a breath of fresh air and we recommend you check it out.
The song chartered #1 on the US Hot Rap Songs in 1993 making it a hit.
28. Rebel Without A Pause
If you play this song right now, you will not be able to stop yourself from bopping to this hit by Public Enemy. The song is about political issues such as racism and discrimination.
The song was featured in many games including GTA: San Andreas.
29. Me, Myself, and I
This number 1 Billboard’s US Hot Rap Song is an iconic hit that encourages people to be unique and accept their individuality. If you are on a journey of self-love then I recommend you check this song out.
30. The Show
Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick came together in 1985 to release a legendary upbeat hip-hop song. Both of the stars combine their unique skills of beatboxing and rap to entertain an audience with this track.
The song may not have topped many charts but it did manage to win them a gold certification in the US.
31. Big Pimpin’
Jay-Z is famous for creating a type of rap music that talks about partying, lavish lifestyles,and women. This is also the theme in his song Big Pimpin’ which features UDK.
Not my favorite song on this list but if the above-mentioned description matches your style then give this song a listen.
32. The Bridge Is Over
BPD, aka Boogie Down Productions, made a diss track about two rival rappers, MC Shan and Juice Crew. Back in the day this started a major beef among the rappers involved and got a lot of fire.
The song on its own may not have topped any charts but it has been sampled in many other hit songs.
33. Peter Piper
Run-DMC created the perfect fast-paced, high-tempo rap song that highlights the crew’s smooth rap flow. The song was written to honor their DJ, Jam Master Jay.
I like the upbeat vibe of the song and would urge you to check it out as it will brighten your mood.
34. 99 Problems
I’m sure everyone has heard of the famous lyric “I got 99 problems but a bitch ain’t one” by Jay-Z in his iconic song 99 Problems. Once you realize that the rapper is married to Beyonce, this lyric starts to make sense.
The song was on the charts and has many certifications to its name as well and is just a classic hip-hop song.
35. Dear Mama
We all love our mothers and 2pac went the extra mile to display the love and respect he has for his mom the his song Dear Mama. The song is an emotional piece as it shows us the struggles the mom and son faced and how much 2pac appreciates her.
The song went 3 times platinum in the US as it managed to touch the hearts of many.
36. Many Men (Wish Death)
If violence is not your cup of tea then I suggest you stay far away from this song as 50 Cent does not shy away from it. This song is about the obstacles the rapper faced in his life with themes of survival, revenge, and violence in it.
The song did well on the charts and people praised 50 Cent for his resilience in life.
37. Paul Revere
Beastie Boys are without a doubt one of the greatest hip-hop crews that graced the planet Earth and if you listen to this song you will also agree with me. The song is about a made-up scenario in which the trio steals a car which then turns into a car chase.
The song has left behind a legacy thanks to its humorous aesthetic.
38. In Da Club
Another 50 Cent’s hit on this list is In Da Club which you must have seen everyone use on their Instagram stories when wishing someone happy birthday. The lyric “Go shorty, it’s your birthday” went viral again in 2022 on many social media platforms.
We recommend you check this party bop out. It also has many certifications to its name.
39. Check The Rhime
If you like the combination of jazz with hip-hop then you should check out this hit by A Tribe Called Quest. The song is versatile and talks about the importance of brotherhood and unity in the age.
The song has an infectious beat mixed with the smooth flow of the rappers making it the perfect bop.
40. Grindin’
As the name suggests, the song is about hustling, or as the gen-z say it nowadays, it’s about “getting that bread”. The track does have a twist to it though, it talks about getting success in the drug industry.
The song has critical acclaim and was mentioned in the Rolling Stones Best Rap Songs article.
41. I Used To Love H.E.R.
Common wrote this song as a love letter to hip-hop. The lyrics and admiration for hip-hop make this song resonate with those who appreciate the genre and its history, making it a must-listen for them.
42. Award Tour
Another song on this list by A Tribe Called Quest that celebrates the group’s journey and success. The rap flow in this track is smooth and the creative lyrics make this a favorite of listeners.
If you love to dance and want a beat, make sure to check this out as it ranked 1 in US dance single sales.
43. Strictly Business
This next one is from the debut album of EPDM and it is a declaration by the duo for their mission in the music industry. Erick Sermon and Perish Smith assert their dominance through confidence.
The song ended with a gold certification. If you are a fan of simple tunes and strong lyrics, Strictly Business is my recommendation for you.
44. Sucker MCs
Run DMC released this song kind of like a diss track against other rappers. It claims the group’s power as true MCs and labels others as Sucker MCs, the ones without skill and authenticity.
The song ended up in Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Best Songs of All Time article.
45. Shed So Many Tears
2pac is a name known by everyone in hip-hop. His song resonates with everyone’s emotions due to their relatability. 2pac’s ability to convey complex emotions makes this a fan favorite and earned itself a spot amongst the leaderboard in US Hot Rap Songs.
46. Push It
If you want a beat for the dance floor, Push It is the perfect choice. Full of energy and an upbeat track, Salt N Pepa’s sassy song amplifies them in a male-dominated industry.
The song also got a platinum certification in the USA.
47. Scenario
We know there are many songs by A Tribe Called Quest on this list but thats just their legacy. Intricate beats and lyricism deliver an energetic and memorable performance for the fans.
With catchy beats and smooth flow, the song claimed itself a gold certification.
48. How I Could Just Kill a Man
As the name suggests the song emphasizes the frustrations and rage in a person that lead to violence. The song may not be everyone’s favorite but it did manage to get a gold certification.
I wouldn’t recommend songs about violence to anyone but if that’s your cup of tea then be our guest!
49. I Know You Got A Soul
This is another Eric B & Rakim track that makes the list. The song is about the rapping skills and talent an MC brings to the table. As the name suggests, the song is about the soul an artist puts into his songs.
50. Exhibit C
This song is a strong performance by Jay Electronica over a piano-driven beat. Exhibit C exhibits (pun intended) the themes of spirituality and personal journey in the rap industry.
Exhibit C received rave reviews from fans and critics upon release. If you want a song with a calm melody, yet full of energy, this is your best bet.
51. It Takes Two
This song is by Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock who talk about the importance of partnership and unity in life. The song’s popularity led to it ranking 3rd in UK Hip Hop/R&B.
52. Ms Jackson
Outkast wrote this song as an apology to Ms. Jackson, the mother of Andre’s ex girlfriend. The song’s chorus “I’m sorry Ms. Jackson, ooh, I am for real” led to the song’s popularity and a catchy hook for the listeners to sing along to.
The song’s popularity won it multiple platinum certifications. We urge you to check it out to see what the hype is really about!
53. Aint No Half-Steppin’
This song is kind of Big Daddy Kane tooting his own trumpet, meaning he raps about his skills as an MC. He raps about his flow, the lyrics he uses, and his immaculate stage presence.
The title in itself shows that he gives his all when it comes to music.
54. Paper Planes
The song’s chorus is incredibly famous, I can’t really mimic it in words so you will have to hear the song on your own to see what I’m talking about. The song set the tone for a rebellious melody and one you cannot stop shaking your head to.
The song received praise worldwide making it a fan favorite and earning multiple platinum certifications.
55. Passin’ Me By
The Pharcyde tells a story of lost love and opportunities lost, relatable to listeners, in this song. The #1 ranking on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs makes it a song worth listening to.
56. Flava In Ya Ear
This song is famous for its catchy tunes and remixes that feature Biggie, Rampage, LL Cool J, and Busta Rhymes. Craig Mack’s unique style brings new flavors to the rap world.
The song being a commercial success and having platinum certifications make it one to listen to get the beat rolling.
57. Mass Appeal
If you are a fan of jazz in hip-hop, then Mass Appeal by Gang Starr is your song. The song is about how artists nowadays are compromising on their skills for fame.
With a catchy chorus and a smooth beat, the song is considered Gang Starr’s standout track.
58. Set It Off
All Hail the Queen, the debut album of Queen Latifah starts off with a powerful message of female empowerment and independence.
The harmonious melody and smooth flow of beat make it an impeccable song and one highly recommended to listen to.
59. Lose Yourself
An icon in the hip-hop industry, Eminem’s masterpiece was the first rap song to receive an Academy Award for Best Original Song. the song has over 50 platinum certifications and 20 million records sold worldwide,
60. Hypnotize
This song by Biggie has an infectious and funky rhythm that is loved by many. The track ended up as #1 on Billboards Hot 100 and also secured a platinum certification.
61. Boyz-n-the-Hood
A track by Eazy-E as part of N.W.A that talks about gang culture, street life, and violence in his neighborhood. The song is a classic as it hit rank 18 on Billboard’s hot rap songs.
The song was sampled in Megan Thee Stallion’s “Girls in The Hood” that was a major hit..
62. Mama Said Knock You Out
LL Cool J raps about wanting to prove his critics wrong by gaining success in the music industry. The title suggests that the rapper would “knock anyone out” if they doubted his skill and talent.
We recommend you check this song out if have a bunch of haters around you.
63. I Really Mean It
The Diplomats celebrated East Coast hip-hop by releasing this iconic track. The group boasts about their success in the industry.
The piano-driven beat combined with strong lyrics is not for everyone though so watch out before you stream this.
64. Get Ur Freak On
Missy Eliot is known to make dance floor bops and this is one that goes down in history. This song includes diverse sounds including Indian music elements in it.
This is one of my favorites and I would highly recommend you check this hit out.
65. I Need Love
LL Cool J connects with fans in this number and reflects on the emotional intimacy that is needed in life. It remains one of his most iconic songs, ranking 1 on Billboard’s hot black singles.
66. My Name Is
This one is from Eminem’s debut album and has the catchy chorus “Chika Chika Slim Shady ” which is remembered by many. A platinum record and among the best and highly recommended for hip-hop fans.
67. The Crossroads
A hip Hop song by Bone Thugs N Harmony that reflects on the death of a friend or family member and the hopeful reunion in the afterlife. If you are a fan of smooth, slow-pitched songs, then this is for you with its wide popularity the song received a platinum certification.
68. U.N.I.T.Y
This song by Queen Latifah is celebrated by women mostly for its message of empowerment and unity. The lyrics centered around gender equality and self-respect.
Widely renowned and among Billboard Top 100 for the year 1994.
69. The Breaks
A legendary song by Kurtis Blow that is celebrated for its role in popularizing the rap genre in the early 80s. The song showcases Kurtis Blow’s charismatic personality and talent.
The song is actually a tribute to DJs and their skill and if you like DJs then do check this out.
70. Eye Know
A song by De La Soul that expresses affection and intimacy for a romantic partner. The song gives off a positive vibe and a feel-good aesthetic. If you are in a bad mood, give Eye Know a listen!
71. Murder Was The Case
This one is by Snoop Dogg and was part of a short movie. The track tells the story of murder, violence, and the consequences of involvement in illegal activities.
The song led to being platinum twice and one worth listening to.
72. 6 in the Mornin’
I do not condone illegal activities but a song is a song and you should not take it literally. Ice T explains his illegal activities in this track. It is an autobiography as a gang member on the streets of Los Angeles.
The song title reflects early morning hustle and avoiding law enforcement.
73. Just A Friend
A song by Biz Markie with a humorous take on being friend-zoned. Highly loved among the fans and its catchy chorus led to it becoming platinum-certified. I highly recommend it, especially if you are also a victim of the friend zone.
74. What You Know
T.I. raps about his life struggles, from poverty to fame, and all the obstacles he faced during that time. The track’s catchy piano tune makes it worth listening to.
The song peaked at number 3 on the US billboard hot 100.
75. California Love
This song by 2pac featuring Dr. Dre pays homage to the state of California. The song has multiple platinum certifications and if you love Cali then go listen!
76. A Milli
A Milli by Lil Wayne is known for its repetitive lyrics, and fast-paced beat. The song became an instant hit, going platinum multiple times and topping the charts.
77. South Bronx
BDP released South Bronx as a diss track towards MC Shan’s. The South Bronx defends the honor of their side. This song remains iconic due to its confrontational nature and bold lyrics.
78. Regulate
Warren G released the track as a funky take on hip hop. Warren G’s narrative style is loved by many. The song has multiple platinum certifications to prove the rapper’s talent.
79. The Choice is Yours (Revisited)
Black Sheep delivers light-hearted and humorous verses in this track as it reflects on individuality and the choice a person has in life. The song peaked at number 1 on U.S. hot rap singles.
80. Lost Ones
Lost Ones by J Cole is a unique song that gives the listener a dual perspective of a couple and their fear of unplanned parenthood. The song discusses the complexities of having a child.
This track received critical acclaim for its mature and realistic message.
81. Get At Me Dog
If you like confrontation then this song is for you as it is about challenging others and asserting your dominance over them. The song may not be a hit on the charts but it sure is a good bop that I recommend to check out.
82. Triumph
Wu-Tang Clan created a versatile song that discusses many topics and I suggest you check the music video out as it is an entertaining piece. The song went platinum in the US.
83. Protect Ya Neck
Yes, we put two Wu-Tang Clan songs back to back on the list because of how iconic they are. This song is about the group’s experiences with protecting themselves from the violence of the streets.
84. That’s The Joint
I like this song because of its upbeat and fucky beat. This is definitely a song to do the stanky leg to. The song may not be a hit but it sure was sampled in many other songs.
85. Deep Cover
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg came together to “maximize their joint slay”, as stan Twitter says it nowadays. The song is about crime and Snoop’s climb to fame.
86. Lyte As A Rock
The song has heavy bass and bouncy tune that shows MC Lyte’s talent in a male-dominating field. The song is an anthem for women and I recommend you check it out if you are one!
87. The Symphony
This song by Marley Marl is legendary because of the other rappers featured on it. They all take the mic one by one and spitfire lines, making the song an instant hit.
88. Gangsta’s Paradise
This one is definitely my most streamed one from this list, and I am not alone on this. Coolio and L.V. rap about crime and the struggles of living in an urban area.
89. Come Clean
Jeru the Damaja raps about uniqueness and critiques other rappers for lying about their street credibility. If you have the same sentiments then you should check this one out.
90. I Got 5 On It
The beat of this song is extremely popular, especially in the era of YouTube compilations. The message of the song is even funnier, friends chipping in 5 dollars each to afford weed. I
91. You Got Me
This song is by the Roots featuring Erykah Badu and the song is about trust, insecurities, and loyalty in a relationship. The song went on many charts proving its fame.
92. King Of Rock
Run-DMC wrote this song to establish themselves as King of Rap. People loved this song as it went platinum in the US.
93. Freaks Come Out At Night
As the name suggests, the song talks about how wild the night is and that is when you meet the most interesting people. The song was on the charts for a short while but that does not lower its worth in the industry.
94. White Lines (Don’t Do It)
As you can guess by the name, Grandmaster Flash and Melle Mel, talk about drug addiction and its consequences in this song. The song has a catchy tune which helped it get on the charts.
95. No Vaseline
Ice Cube wrote this diss track for his previous rap crew, N.W.A and its manager. The rapper uses strong language to diss the financial exploitation he faced in the group.
96. Hold It, Now Hit It
The Beastie Boys have another hit on this list that is about dancing and just having a good time. This is a fun party song that I highly suggest you put on, especially when in a low mood.
97. Bust A Move
Just like the previous song, this one by Young MC is also about dancing, particularly about a guy trying to impress a girl by dancing. The upbeat and positive vibes of the song will pull you in like a magnet.
98. m.A.A.d City
Kendrick Lamar is referring to Compton as a mad city in this song. The track highlights his struggles of growing there. The song went two times platinum in the US.
99. Baby Got Back
Sir Mix-a-Lot is a song about appreciating curvy women. If you need a song about thick girls then go give this iconic hit a listen.
100. Brooklyn’s Finest
Jay-Z and Notorious B.I.G. made this legendary song in which they rap about life in Brooklyn. They also talk about their success and contribution to the rap world.
101. Slow Down
As the name suggests, Brand Nubian rap about how you should not rush things in life and slow down a little bit. It is a perfect message and the song was #3 on the US Hot Rap Singles.
102. Hip-Hop
Dead Prez wrote this song to celebrate hip-hop and you must have heard its catchy “Hip-Hop, Hip-Hop” chorus many times. The song went on the charts in 2002 as well.
103. Bring The Pain
Method Man raps about his talent in this song along with his confidence in his MC skills. The song has an energetic beat and strong rhymes that prove him right.
104. Brooklyn Zoo
Ol’ Dirty Bastard released this track in 1995. The song showcases his talent on the mic as well as the pen. His personality shines through the song making it a unique number in the hip-hop world.
105. All Caps
Madvillian released this song in 2004. The track has many topics on it and uses comic book references, if that’s your thing then go check it out right now!
106. Ni**as in Paris
Jay-Z and Kanye knew what they were doing when they released this masterpiece. The song boasts about their lifestyle and confidence. The song went Diamond in the US.
107. Follow the Leader
The song is about setting new limits in the rap world and making everyone else follow them. Eric B. & Rakim’s song did quite well on the charts in the US.
108. I Seen A Man Die
As the name suggests, the song is about witnessing the death of another person. Scarface highlights the violence he saw growing up and puts it in a heart-wrenching song.
109. Respiration
Black Star and Common released this song in 1999 about their life problems and need for freedom growing up. If you relate to these themes then you should stream this song.
110. Ante Up
This is a song about challenging others to “ante up”, meaning the rappers M.O.P. and Busta Rhymes are asserting their dominance. The song has a strong beat and blunt lyrics that are loved by many.
111. Criminology
Criminology is about crime, street life, and the need to survive in such conditions. Raekwon and Ghostface Killah made a song that hit the charts, even if it was for a short time.
112. Woo-hah (Got U All In Check)
Some songs are just meant for entertainment and dancing. And this song by Busta Rhymes is exactly that. If you are in the mood to Busta Move (pun intended) then go check this track out.
113. Can I Kick It
A Tribe Called Quest makes hits after hits and this one in particular is a laid-back track that encourages listeners to embrace themselves. The song has a very catchy beat and positive vibes.
114. Get Money
This iconic hit by Biggie and Junior M.A.F.I.A is about achieving financial independence in life. The song hit the charts and went platinum in USA.
115. Ego Trippin’
Ultramagnetic MCs rap about being the best in this field and being confident in their skill. Everyone needs a dose of this kind of confidence once in a while so go check this song out!
116. O.P.P.
O.P.P. is short for Other people’s property and it’s about cheating and infidelity in a relationship. It talks about the consequences of such decisions, if you relate then maybe check this out.
117. The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)
Another Missy Elliot hit on this list that shows the rapper’s talent and skills. This is just a chill song that hit the charts in 1997.
118. You Gots No Chill
EPMD basically challenges other rappers in this song to come and test them as they assert dominance in the hip-hop world. It is a bold and blunt song, one we would recommend you to check out.
119. Super Freaky Girl
The Queen of Rap, Nicki Minaj had to be on this list. This song is very explicit so I would suggest listening to it with caution.
120. It Ain’s Hard To Tell
Started off this list with Nas so it makes sense to end it with Nas as well. In this song, the rapper shows his journey in the rap industry and how he got to where he is right now.
FAQs
How did the rapper 2pac die?
The rapper 2pac lost his life in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996. It has been decades since the rapper’s death but the mystery remains unsolved as to who did it.
What is the fastest rap song?
“Rap God” by Eminem has been named many times as the fastest rap song. There is a reason why Eminem is called the King of Pop and this song of his proves it.
Which female rapper has two 11 times platinum certifications?
Cardi B has the honor of having two 11-time platinum certifications for the songs “Bodak Yellow” and “I Like It”. Cardi hit this milestone on her 30th birthday, making it twice as memorable.