The 10 Best Public Enemy Songs, Ranked

As we continue to celebrate this 50th year of Hip-Hop, we also continue to celebrate the legendary acts that helped make the genre what it is today. And with today being Flavor Flav’s 63rd birthday, we figured now would be the perfect time to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of Public Enemy. Formed in 1985, the hip group rose to prominence in the mid-1980s for their bravery and willingness to challenge and address issues such as the media and racism. The group’s first four albums all achieved either gold or platinum certifications and has since gone on to release eleven more studio albums solidifying its place in music history. With so much heat dished out their during career, it's definitely worth taking a look at the best Public Enemy songs that have stood the test of time.

Public Enemy is also credited with being the ones to define and create what is now known as rap metal (a mixture of rap and rock/heavy metal) and has received numerous prestigious accolades including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2020 Grammys, and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

In honor of Flav’s birthday, here’s a look at the best Public Enemy songs ranked. Prepare your neighbors in advance.

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Can’t Truss It

Shut Em’ Down

You’re Gonna Get Yours

Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos

Rebel Without a Pause

Night of the Living Baseheads

Burn Hollywood Burn

Don’t Believe the Hype

Public Enemy No. 1

Fight the Power

Happy birthday Flav! If you want to help celebrate the occasion, make sure you stream Public Enemy all day long.