Recommended hip-hop/rap

Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

The great achievement of Black music is not only that it gave birth to genres like jazz, blues, gospel, and soul.

It has also been a wellspring of inspiration for legendary songs in the histories of rock and pop, and it is the most influential force on musical genres since the 20th century—an influence that continues unbroken into the 21st century and beyond.

To explore the roots of this magnificent Black music, this time we’re researching classic tracks mainly from the soul and R&B realm spanning the 1960s to the 1990s.

In the latter half, we also introduce more recent songs, so whether you love the latest hip-hop and R&B or aren’t very familiar with Black music, this is a must-check!

Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces (121–130)

You Can’t Catch MeChuck Berry

You Can’t Catch Me

You Can’t Catch MeChuck Berry

This song, “You Can’t Catch Me,” features strikingly fantastical lyrics themed around flying cars.

It’s also famous because music publisher Morris Levy accused The Beatles of plagiarizing it.

With its upbeat melody, it’s an easy listen even for those who haven’t experienced Black music before.

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1, 2 Step ft. Missy ElliottCiara

Ciara – 1, 2 Step (Official Video) ft. Missy Elliott

1, 2 Step ft. Missy ElliottCiara

A hit song by R&B’s princess—whose actual middle name is also Princess—Ciara, in collaboration with female rapper Missy Elliott.

Ciara’s whispery vocals paired with Missy’s powerful rap are cool.

Don’t miss the music video where the beautiful Ciara shows off dance moves that can rival any man’s.

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BootyliciousDestiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child – Bootylicious

BootyliciousDestiny's Child

A classic song Beyoncé sang during her Destiny’s Child days, back before she became the megastar she is now.

“Bootylicious” is a slang term combining “booty” and “delicious,” meaning a sexy, attractive butt.

It’s a hit that celebrates the sexy hips that are often said to be Beyoncé’s trademark.

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In My FeelingsDrake

Drake – In My Feelings

In My FeelingsDrake

It’s the song “In My Feelings” by the Canadian rapper Drake.

It’s included on his 2018 album Scorpion.

The music video is made like a drama.

As you’d expect from a former actor, he delivers a performance full of confidence.

And mysteriously, Will Smith appears in the video, so keep an eye out for that too!

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Mask OffFUTURE

Future – Mask Off (Official Music Video)

Mask OffFUTURE

“Mask Off” is a single from Future’s fifth studio album, Future, released in 2017.

Known for its distinctive flute melody, the track was produced by Southside and Metro Boomin and samples Tommy Butler’s 1976 piece “Prison Song.” It’s a hip-hop/trap anthem that many DJs play heavily at festivals and other events.

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