Let me start from the beginnin', at the top of the list

Released: 2012 • Features: French Montana, Drake “Stay Schemin” by Rick Ross, featuring French Montana and Drake, is a poignant anthem of loyalty and inner-city struggles. Its verses deliver a raw exploration of their tumultuous environment while remaining unflinchingly committed…

Released: 2006 “Hustlin'” is a Rick Ross anthem, a quintessential representation of his flow and storytelling ability. It’s the embodiment of the trope of a hustler’s ambition – the hustler as an entrepreneur, as a fighter, as someone…

Released: 2010 • Features: Drake, Chrisette Michele “Aston Martin Music” by Rick Ross featuring Drake and Chrisette Michele is a classic tale of navigating the obsessive pursuit of wealth with the reality of maintaining a love relationship. The title itself…

Released: 2015 “Come Get Her” by Rae Sremmurd is a brash, boisterous celebration of club culture, with a sly nod to the hustling spirit presented in hip-hop. The song sees its protagonist enraptured by the allure and vibe…

Released: 2016 “Swang” by Rae Sremmurd is a casual and confident anthem of youthful flamboyancy and ambition, shedding light on their journey and the choices they’ve made in the pursuit of wealth and success. The lyrics chronicle a…

Released: 2016 • Features: Gucci Mane “Black Beatles” by Rae Sremmurd featuring Gucci Mane is a triumphal rally-cry that celebrates the hedonistic lifestyle of the hip-hop elite. It’s about achieving success, relishing in the influence and wealth it brings, and…

Released: 2015 “This Could Be Us” by Rae Sremmurd is a sharp commentary about the romantic complications brought about by the unyielding pursuit of money and fame. Running over smooth beats and infectious loops, the layering of desire,…

Released: 1995 • Features: Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, GZA The gritty, complex tale woven by “Guillotine (Swordz)” by Raekwon sees Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, and GZA drop poetic tales of their experiences from the streets. At the intersection of effort…

Released: 1995 • Features: Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Cappadonna “Ice Cream” by Raekwon, featuring Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Cappadonna, is a classic east coast hip-hop track that uses clever wordplay and vivid imagery to illustrate the artists’ attraction to…

Released: 1993 “Just Another Day…” by Queen Latifah paints a vivid picture of life in the urban neighborhoods, serving as a declaration of her survival amidst the struggles. With its infectious groove and Latifah’s lyricism, this track captures…

Released: 2008 “Gettin Up” by Q-Tip is an uplifting anthem, illustrating the rapper’s deep yearning for a woman he’s lost but isn’t ready to let go. Embedded within the rich lyrical tapestry are profound themes of love, regret,…

Released: 2008 In the track “Won’t Trade,” the legendary Q-Tip uses the metaphor of a top-tier sports player to express his unwavering commitment and untradeable value as an artist in the game of hip-hop. Exploring themes of self-worth,…

Released: 1999 “Breathe And Stop” by Q-Tip is a head-nodding anthem dedicated to the perpetual motion and passion found within hip-hop culture, with a special nod to those hustling on the corners. It’s a celebration of individual expression,…

Released: 2022 • Features: Kanye West “Dreamin Of The Past” by Pusha T, featuring Kanye West, encapsulates a narrative interweaving past struggles and present success, interlaced with critique and self-assertiveness. The song offers a streetwise perspective on achieving success and…

Released: 2022 • Features: Lil Uzi Vert, Don Toliver “Scrape It Off” by Pusha T featuring Lil Uzi Vert and Don Toliver is a vivid narrative of street life, hustling, and resilience. The lyrics draw from the artists’ experiences dealing…

Released: 1988 “Don’t Believe The Hype” by Public Enemy is an assertive delineation on how the media manipulates public perception, with lead vocalist Chuck D serving as the voice of intellectual resistance against the mainstream narrative. The recurring…

Released: 1988 The track “Rebel Without A Pause” by Public Enemy is emblematic of the golden era of hip-hop. A spirited dissent against societal norms, the song stands as an unflinching manifesto for political and racial justice. The…

Released: 1998 • Features: Stephen Stills “He Got Game” from Public Enemy drops some deep wisdom on us, using the metaphor of the ‘game’ to comment on the state of society, racial discrimination, and the struggle for mental liberation. Centered…

Released: 2007 “Harder Than You Think” by Public Enemy is a seismic rap anthem that slams down a formidable critique of social issues, with a potent focus on racism, government corruption, and societal pressures within black communities. The…

Released: 2013 “Keep It Thoro” is a gritty, no-nonsense rap anthem by Prodigy, one half of the legendary New York hip-hop duo Mobb Deep. The song is a declaration of Prodigy’s unapologetic street cred, a dismissal of fake…

Released: 2017 Prince’s “Erotic City – Let’s Go Crazy 7″ B-Side Edit; 2017 Remaster” is a seductive anthem full of sexual innuendos and strong emotions. It’s about an intense, physical connection between two people, where Prince expresses his…

Released: 1984 “When Doves Cry” by Prince is a masterstroke painting in song of an intimate relationship, splashed with vivid imagery and bleeding with emotional turmoil. Rooted in metaphor, the track explores the complexities of love, self-doubt, and…

Released: 2016 “Go Flex” by Post Malone is a bold declaration of his aspiration and ambition, a contemplation on the highs and lows of fame, and a candid commentary on the hedonistic lifestyle he’s living. This song, tinged…

Released: 2019 • Features: Swae Lee “Sunflower,” by Post Malone and Swae Lee, is a soulful exploration of a tumultuous, hard-to-define relationship. The song, from the soundtrack to “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” depicts a romantic dynamic that cycles through conflict,…

Released: 2020 • Features: Lil Tjay Mood Swings by Pop Smoke, featuring Lil Tjay, is an intimate rollercoaster ride into the deep and sometimes tumultuous dynamics of a romantic relationship. The lyrics encapsulate passionate physical encounters juxtaposed with emotional ups-and-downs,…

Released: 2020 • Features: Lil Baby, DaBaby In “For The Night,” the late Pop Smoke and collaborators Lil Baby and DaBaby craft a narrative spotlighting the unpredictable and often precarious nights they’ve had throughout their journey to stardom. The track…

Released: 2020 “What You Know Bout Love” by Pop Smoke is a soulful exploration of a passionate and youthful romance. The track depicts a refreshing and surprising blend of tenderness, coupled with Pop Smoke’s signature hardcore style. Breathing…

Released: 2019 “Dior” by Pop Smoke is a brash and assertive exploration of the artist’s survival instincts, expensive tastes, and prodigious talents. Glimmers of gleeful ostentation blend with gritty street narratives, making it a hype anthem that embodies…

Released: 2019 • Features: Lil Tjay “Pop Out” by Polo G, featuring Lil Tjay, is a gritty commentary on the violent realities of street life woven with the materialistic glamour of high-level rap success. The song unravels the harsh truths…

Released: 2020 • Features: Stunna 4 Vegas, NLE Choppa, Mike WiLL Made-It Just off top, the title “Go Stupid” by Polo G, featuring Stunna 4 Vegas, NLE Choppa, and Mike WiLL Made-It cues us into a high-energy, bold, and brash…

Released: 2021 “RAPSTAR” by Polo G is an introspective anthem that explores his rise to fame, the challenges he faces in his newfound position, and his internal struggle to reconcile his past with his current success. It also…

Released: 2002 “Hot in Herre” by Nelly is a celebratory and flirtatious track that paints club scenarios using vibrant, playful language. Nelly delves into the vibrant setting of a high energy party, sexual attraction, and the pursuit of…

Released: 2000 • Features: City Spud Alright, we’re about to dive into Nelly’s well-loved anthem, “Ride Wit Me”, featuring City Spud. This classic joint is a celebration of Nelly’s newfound success, centered around themes of luxury, hedonism, and the allure…

Released: 2023 • Features: Lil Uzi Vert “Blood Moon” by Mike WiLL Made-It with Lil Uzi Vert serves as a bold proclamation of their unmatched swagger, lifestyle and skill in the hip-hop world. Packed with off-the-wall imagery, braggadocious claims, and…

Released: 2018 • Features: A$AP Rocky, A$AP Ferg, Nicki Minaj “Runnin'” by Mike WiLL Made-It, featuring A$AP Rocky, A$AP Ferg, and Nicki Minaj, is a bold proclamation of their hard-earned success, unwavering confidence, and unambiguous dominance in the rap game.…

Released: 2018 • Features: Drake “Going Bad” is a high-energy track by Meek Mill and Drake celebrating their riches, influence, and clout. They use the song to reflect on their journey from the bottom to the top of the music…

Released: 1987 “Kill That Noise” by MC Shan takes us on a journey of self-affirmation and resilience. It’s a hip-hop classic which strikes back against those who downplay his skills and the reputation of his community, the Queensbridge.…

Released: 1987 “Left Me–Lonely” by MC Shan is a profound narrative of love found and abruptly lost, centering on the harrowing emotional voyage of a man left desolate by an unexpected breakup. MC Shan’s lyrics blend heartfelt sentimentality…

Released: 2017 • Features: Alessia Cara, Khalid “1-800-273-8255” by Logic, with features from Alessia Cara and Khalid, is a raw examination of the turmoil of depression and suicidal thoughts, eventually leading to a resolution of hope and a pledge for…

Released: 2004 “Karma” by Lloyd Banks intricately showcases the complexities of navigating relationships and personal growth in the world of fame. With raw honesty, Banks delves into themes of rejection, pride, and the never-ending search for authenticity amidst…

Released: 2023 From my expert viewpoint in hip-hop, Lil Yachty’s ‘drive ME crazy!’ isn’t just your run-of-the-mill rap track. With a hook that digs deep, and verses that explore the complexities of love and life, Yachty flexes his…

Released: 2020 “Coffin” by Lil Yachty is a braggadocious track in which the rapper flaunts his wealth, power, and sexual conquests. The song’s title is likely a metaphorical reference to Yachty ‘killing’ the game with his success. It…

Released: 2024 “A Cold Sunday” by Lil Yachty is a lyrically charged track that uses vivid imagery and personal experiences to create a constantly shifting landscape. Essentially, Yachty wrestles with the unpredictable nature of fame, fortune, and relationships…

Released: 2011 • Features: Cory Gunz “6 Foot 7 Foot” by Lil Wayne featuring Cory Gunz, is a lyrical tour de force, exploring themes of power, hustling, and the pursuit of success against all odds. The song alludes to their…

Released: 2011 • Features: Bruno Mars In “Mirror” by Lil Wayne, featuring Bruno Mars, Weezy F Baby finds himself in an introspective space, confronting the face in the mirror as he grapples with themes of introspection, self-identity, personal struggles, and…

Released: 2016 • Features: Wiz Khalifa, Imagine Dragons, X Ambassadors, Logic, Ty Dolla $ign “Sucker for Pain” is a fiery confessional by Lil Wayne and his heavyweight collaborators, where they explore the themes of rebellion, loyalty, struggle, and an unyielding…

Released: 2018 • Features: Lil Uzi Vert “Shoota” by Playboi Carti featuring Lil Uzi Vert exists as an anthem of ascendancy, showcasing two artists unafraid to bask in their success. It’s a triumphant preening of material wealth, braggadocious exploits, and…

Released: 2020 Stepping into the world of “New Tank” by Playboi Carti, we dive headfirst into the ambience of gritty street culture, extravagant lifestyle, and impactful bravado that’s been Carti’s signature style. This track unfolds Carti’s narrative of…

Released: 2017 In “Location,” Playboi Carti masterfully encapsulates his elevated lifestyle, upgraded status, and lavish excesses that have accompanied his success in the hip-hop game. Gravitating around his journey from the streets to the sheets of money and…

Released: 2008 In “Knockin Doors Down,” Pimp C delivers a call to unity in the Southern hip-hop scene while flexing his lyrical muscle and showcasing his hustling prowess. This anthem is a musical salute to overcoming obstacles and…