The 20 Songs New Hip Hop Fans Need to Know

Being one of the many new hip hop fans can surely be a challenge in this day and age. After all, we're constantly flooded with new music, while there's plenty of classics from the past to get hip to as well. If you're dipping your toes into the dynamic and diverse world of hip hop for the first time, you might find the sheer volume of music out there a bit daunting. But worry not - we've compiled a list of 20 essential hip hop tracks you absolutely have to know. These songs not only define the genre but have also left distinguishable marks on our culture. Let's dive in, shall we?

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20. "C.R.E.A.M." - Wu-Tang Clan

Year of Release: 1993

With its unforgettable piano loop, gritty beats, and lyrics about the struggles of growing up in the inner city, "C.R.E.A.M." (which stands for "Cash Rules Everything Around Me") encapsulates the essence of '90s East Coast rap. This song is not only a window into the hard realities of life in the Staten Island projects - it's also a commentary on the allure and pitfalls of money.

19. "Shook Ones, Pt. II" - Mobb Deep

Year of Release: 1995

An iconic anthem of East Coast rap, this song showcases the raw, unfiltered energy of New York's Queensbridge scene in the '90s.

18. "Stan" - Eminem

Year of Release: 2000

This song is a storytelling masterpiece that highlights Eminem's ability to convey complex narratives through rap. It's a testament to the depth and breadth of his lyrical prowess.

17. "T.R.O.Y." - Pete Rock and CL Smooth

Year of Release: 1992

This timeless classic is a tribute to a lost friend. It's an example of how hip hop artists channel personal loss into powerful music.

16. "Juicy" - The Notorious B.I.G.

Year of Release: 1994

"Juicy" is a rags-to-riches tale, detailing Biggie's journey from the streets of Brooklyn to superstardom. It's one of hip hop's most iconic success anthems.

15. "Ms. Jackson" - Outkast

Year of Release: 2000

The Southern hip hop duo Outkast pushed the boundaries of the genre with this track. It's a heartfelt apology to the mother of a loved one, showcasing the group's innovation and lyricism.

14. "Dear Mama" - 2Pac

Year of Release: 1995

This heartfelt tribute to his mother showcases 2Pac's emotional depth and storytelling ability, proving that hip hop can also be a vehicle for love and gratitude.

13. "99 Problems" - Jay-Z

Year of Release: 2003

Another masterpiece from Jay-Z, '99 Problems' is a fusion of hard-hitting beats and razor-sharp lyrics that perfectly showcases Jay-Z's deft storytelling and unrivaled flow.

12. "Alright" - Kendrick Lamar

Year of Release: 2015

An anthem of resilience, 'Alright' became the soundtrack for a movement. It stands as a testament to Kendrick Lamar's lyrical genius and societal influence.

11. "Nuthin' But A G Thang" - Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg

Year of Release: 1992

This track is a cornerstone of West Coast G-Funk, combining smooth beats with Snoop Dogg's laid-back flow and Dr. Dre's world-class production. It's a perfect representation of early '90s Cali vibes.

10. "Fight The Power" - Public Enemy

Year of Release: 1990

This politically charged anthem pushed the boundaries of what hip hop could say and do, and it remains as relevant today as when it was first released.

9. "Doo Wop (That Thing)" - Lauryn Hill

Year of Release: 1998

Lauryn Hill's crossover hit skillfully blended R&B and hip hop, showcasing her phenomenal lyrical ability and unique sound. It proved to be a major step forward in the soundscape of hip hop hits.

8. "The Message" - Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five

Year of Release: 1982

As one of the earliest narrative rap songs, "The Message" brought social commentary into the genre and set the stage for much of what hip hop would become.

7. "Runaway" - Kanye West (feat. Pusha T)

Year of Release: 2010

"Runaway" encapsulates Kanye West's creative genius, combining brilliant production with heartfelt, introspective lyrics. It's a masterpiece that further cemented West's place in hip hop history.

6. "Empire State of Mind" - Jay-Z and Alicia Keys

Year of Release: 2009

An ode to New York City, this song is a prime example of Jay-Z's storytelling prowess and knack for creating massive hits. It stands as a timeless record for New Yorkers and hip hop fans in general.

5. "Paid In Full" - Eric B. and Rakim

Year of Release: 1987

This track, with Rakim's pioneering lyrical style and Eric B.'s innovative production, shifted the trajectory of hip hop and laid the foundation for the genre's golden age.

4. "Straight Outta Compton" - N.W.A.

Year of Release: 1988

This track is a landmark in the genre, ushering in the era of gangsta rap and defining a new, unapologetic voice in music. This was and is a prolific record that pushed boundaries as far as subject matter and delivery.

3. "Lose Yourself" - Eminem

Year of Release: 2002

Perhaps one of the most famous hip hop songs worldwide, "Lose Yourself" showcases Eminem's incredibly intricate rhyme schemes and the raw intensity he brings to every track. To say it's a classic would be an understatement.

2. "Changes" - 2Pac

Year of Release: 1998

A poignant social commentary on the state of America, "Changes" stands as one of 2Pac's greatest contributions to music and culture, showing that hip hop can be a powerful tool for change.

1. "Rapper's Delight" - The Sugarhill Gang

Year of Release: 1980

At the number one spot on our list of 20 songs for new hip hop fans, we've got "Rapper's Delight." It all started here. This track is widely considered the first song to popularize hip hop in the U.S. and around the world. With its infectious rhythm and fun, accessible lyrics, "Rapper's Delight" is the song that launched a thousand careers and deserves its place at the top of the list.