Hip-hop classics that changed history
Overseas, hip-hop songs that have been loved for many years are called “hip-hop classics.”
This time, we’ve picked out especially iconic tracks among those hip-hop classics—songs that had a major impact on the hip-hop scene.
We cover everything from legendary tracks of the 1990s to works that served as the very roots of hip-hop in the 1970s.
Many of the songs in the latter half are relatively unknown in Japan, so this is a must-read for anyone looking for great tracks!
Please sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Hip-Hop Classics That Changed History (1–10)
Paid In FullEric B. & Rakim
The word “lyricist” is taken for granted today, but back in the 1980s—when the foundations of modern hip-hop were taking shape—it wasn’t all that common.
The duo that helped popularize both the concept and the term was Eric B.
& Rakim.
Their track “Paid in Full” is one of their hits, characterized by lyrics brimming with lyricism, featuring inventive metaphors, personification, and more.
Big Pimpin’ ft. UGKJay Z
Jay-Z, the rapper known as the wealthiest musician in the world.
Even if you’re not familiar with hip-hop, you’ve probably heard of him, right? Among his works, the track I especially recommend is Big Pimpin’ ft.
UGK.
It’s one of his biggest hit tunes.
He’s from New York, but as you can hear in this song, a defining feature is how he incorporates a laid-back, West Coast-style flow.
Fight The PowerPublic Enemy
While it’s rare in Japan, it’s common overseas for rappers to take on political issues.
Many artists turn those viewpoints into songs, a style generally referred to as socially conscious rap.
One group known as pioneers of this movement is Public Enemy.
Their track “Fight The Power” is one of their hit tunes, characterized by powerful lyrics that, as mentioned, express deep dissatisfaction with society.
La-Di-Da-DiDoug E. Fresh & The Get Fresh Crew
These days, people tend to think hip-hop is something made by artists with a “thug” background, but in the 1980s, thug-style rappers like N.W.A were the minority, and hip-hop with strong entertainment elements was the mainstream.
One of the iconic tracks representing 1980s hip-hop is “La-Di-Da-Di.” It pairs beatboxing with rapping, and everything about it—from the drum patterns to the flow—is old-school through and through.
Mind Playing Tricks On MeGeto Boys
The Geto Boys, a great hip-hop group that was hugely active in the 1980s.
For heads who love old-school, they’re probably a shining, almost idol-like presence, right? Their music, rooted in Southern hip hop and gangsta rap, is overwhelming in its impact, and thanks to their high level of skill, they had a major influence on later rappers.
Among the Geto Boys’ works, the one I especially recommend is “Mind Playing Tricks On Me.” The lyrics and flow are, of course, excellent, and the track itself is outstanding—be sure to check it out.
Straight Outta ComptonN.W.A
N.W.A, a great hip-hop crew that pioneered gangsta rap and continues to influence countless rappers and heads today.
Many people in Japan are likely familiar with them.
Their Straight Outta Compton is known as the most famous of N.W.A’s works and remains hugely popular to this day.
Personally, I think Ice Cube—renowned as a lyricist—delivers outstanding verses, so be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.
JuicyThe Notorious B.I.G.
The king of the East Coast, The Notorious B.I.G.—a truly iconic rapper who defined the 1990s.
He created countless classics, but if we’re talking about his most popular work, it has to be “Juicy,” right? It’s his best-selling track and is still loved by many rappers and heads today.
The biggest charm of the song is, without a doubt, the lyrics.
Since it tells the story of his life, the content is quite heavy, but by the time you finish listening, you feel courage and energy.