Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2026]

California Love2Pac43rank/position

2pac feat Dr.Dre – California Love HD

The East–West feud of gangsta rap.

If The Notorious B.I.G.

was the hope of the East Coast, then 2Pac was the hope of the West.

A California native discovered by Dr.

Dre, this genius quickly rose to prominence in the world of hip-hop.

As exemplified by “California Love,” his funky beats and sexy sound were also extremely popular.

However, in 1996 he too was gunned down by rival East Coast forces.

The back-to-back assassinations of two geniuses—2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G.—shocked the entire nation, and it’s said that this tragedy became a turning point toward reconciliation between East and West.

What would hip-hop look like if both of them were still alive? Now it’s a sad legend.

Like ThatFuture, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar44rank/position

Future, Metro Boomin, Kendrick Lamar – Like That (Official Audio)

This work radiates explosive energy born from the fusion of trap and hardcore hip-hop.

It brings together a star-studded collaboration between American rapper Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar, released in March 2024.

As a single from the album “We Don’t Trust You,” it has captivated hip-hop fans around the world.

Over a heavy soundscape woven from powerful 808 drums and eerie synthesizers, the three artists deliver standout, full-throttle performances that showcase their individuality.

The track has sparked a major reaction, especially among younger listeners, spending three consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It also took home two awards at the 2024 BET Hip Hop Awards, earning high acclaim across the board.

It’s an energetic, uptempo track—highly recommended for those who want to experience the cutting edge of the hip-hop scene.

HypnotizeThe Notorious B.I.G.45rank/position

The Notorious B.I.G. – Hypnotize (Official Music Video) [4K]

A hip-hop classic by The Notorious B.I.G., featuring a sampling track with a fat vocal sensibility and striking melody line that conveys a sense of universality.

Its smooth finish gives it an easy, comfortable vibe, making it a standout work that’s perfect for summer.

If I Ruled The World (Imagine That) feat. Lauryn HillNas46rank/position

Nas – If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (Official HD Video) ft. Lauryn Hill

This masterpiece expresses a powerful longing for freedom and liberation, carried by a nostalgic melody and a groovy beat.

With richly expressive, message-driven lyrics, it vividly paints an ideal world.

While confronting the harsh realities of the streets, it gently sings of a hope-filled future, making it a heartwarming classic.

Lauryn Hill’s soulful chorus further elevates the song’s appeal.

Released in June 1996 as a single from Nas’s album “It Was Written,” it reached No.

53 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for Best Rap Solo Performance at the 1997 Grammy Awards.

This track is perfect when your heart is weary or when you need energy for tomorrow.

It’s also an excellent companion for a nighttime drive or moments of solitary reflection.

Paid In FullEric B. & Rakim47rank/position

Eric B. & Rakim – Paid In Full

The way rhymes are constructed is also a key point to pay attention to when listening to hip-hop.

So let me introduce a track that sparked a revolution in rhyming techniques: “Paid in Full.” This is the debut single by the hip-hop duo Eric B.

& Rakim.

Its lyrics make extensive use of “internal rhyme,” where rhymes occur within a single phrase.

This technique is now commonly used in Japanese hip-hop as well, and its roots can be traced back to this song.

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One LoveBob Marley48rank/position

One Love (Official Fan Made Music Video) – Bob Marley

Bob Marley’s classic song “One Love.” In contrast to its warm, gentle melody, the lyrics sharply probe what it means to be human, and their excellence has earned the song respect from listeners around the world.

If you don’t understand English, be sure to read the Japanese translation of the lyrics.

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Still Not a Player feat. JoeBig Pun49rank/position

Big Pun – Still Not a Player (Official Video) ft. Joe

The allure of this landmark East Coast hip-hop track, which made a major impact in the late ’90s, lies in the sensual world crafted by Big Pun, a trailblazing Latin artist.

His exceptional lyrical skill, commanding flow, and the addition of R&B singer Joe created a sound that captivated countless listeners.

Released in March 1998 as the second single from the album Capital Punishment, the track reached No.

24 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and achieved the historic feat of becoming the first platinum-certified single by a solo Latin hip-hop artist.

It’s a perfect song for late-night drives.

The exquisite groove woven from sultry R&B phrases and deft rap pairs flawlessly with the city at night, and its soothing melody is sure to move you.