Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2026]

Lighters UpLil’ Kim50rank/position

Lil’ Kim – Lighters Up (Official Video)

Lil’ Kim, the great rapper who laid the foundation for female rap.

With numerous hits and a profound impact on the scene, she’s also known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop,” a title backed by her exceptional skills.

Among her many classics, a track that pairs especially well with summer is “Lighters Up.” Its Latin-tinged production—evoking Cuban Afro and bolero—combined with her simple yet captivating rap makes for a striking piece.

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ThotianaBlueface51rank/position

Thotiana

This is a popular song by Blueface, released in 2018.

Blueface suddenly appeared with his 2017 debut, and his unique rap style and vocal tone quickly hooked listeners, propelling him to become a breakout rapper.

This track in particular has become a club hit.

He was 22 at the time of release—a young, talented rapper with a promising future ahead!

Kant Nobody ft. DMXLil Wayne52rank/position

Lil Wayne – Kant Nobody ft. DMX

A track with a powerful beat and impactful lyrics that hip-hop fans won’t be able to resist! Lil Wayne’s razor-sharp flow blends seamlessly with the commanding sample from the late DMX, drawing listeners in.

Released in February 2023 and included on Lil Wayne’s “I Am Music,” this song proudly asserts his place in the hip-hop scene while paying respect to the pioneers who came before him.

It’s perfect not only for those who want to dance, but also for moments when you need confidence or a boost in motivation.

Ride the rhythmic groove and express your true self.

They Reminisce Over YouPete Rock & CL Smooth53rank/position

Pete Rock & CL Smooth – They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.) (Official Video)

Pete Rock & CL Smooth, a hip-hop duo representing New York.

They emerged during the golden age of rap, and they also excel at jazz rap, effortlessly handling everything from classic, straight-ahead rap to more melodic styles.

Among their works, the renowned classic is “They Reminisce Over You.” The track, infused with a jazzy vibe, pairs perfectly with their laid-back yet tightly rhymed delivery, offering exceptional stability and groove.

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tv offKendrick Lamar54rank/position

tv off

This track fuses energetic beats with razor-sharp lyrics.

Kendrick Lamar’s musical talent is on full display, carrying a deep message that prompts social critique and self-reflection.

While rooted in the West Coast hip-hop style, it’s distinguished by a dramatic beat switch at around the two-minute mark.

Included on the album “GNX,” released in November 2024, it was issued as a single on November 26 of the same year.

It’s highly recommended for those who want to fully savor the appeal of hip-hop or deepen their thinking about society and themselves through music.

ChantajeShakira55rank/position

Shakira – Chantaje (Official Video) ft. Maluma

She started music when she was only eight years old.

Her first release was “Tus gafas oscuras,” and the message contained in its lyrics skillfully unfolds the inner emotions surrounding a father grieving the death of his son in a traffic accident.

While a student, she joined a choir, and her talent was such that she was even told her voice was too powerful.

Call Out My NameThe Weeknd56rank/position

The Weeknd – Call Out My Name (Official Video)

This is a song called Call Out My Name by The Weeknd, a new-generation R&B singer from Canada, released in 2018.

The track is included on the album My Dear Melancholy and was nominated for the Juno Award for Songwriter of the Year.

The title means “call out my name,” and it’s a somewhat lingering breakup song.

It’s also been said that the song might be directed at his ex-girlfriend, Selena Gomez.

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