Badass Western music. Tough/edgy music. World classics and recommended popular songs.
This might be sudden, but when you hear “hard-hitting Western music,” what kind of tracks come to mind?
Many people probably think of hip-hop or death metal.
This time, I’ve put together a selection of that kind of “hard-hitting Western music,” with a focus on hip-hop.
From classic West Coast rap of the ’90s to hardcore styles of the 2000s and modern trap, I’ve picked out “badass bangers” from a range of genres.
Even if you’re not into hip-hop, you’ll recognize some of these tracks—so be sure to check them out.
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Badass Western music. Tough, hard-hitting tracks. World-class masterpieces and recommended popular songs (41–50)
Simon SaysPharoahe Monch
Pharoahe Monch is a rapper from Queens, New York, who has been active since 1987.
This track was released as a single from the 1999 album “Internal Affairs” and reached No.
3 on the U.S.
charts.
RATATASkrillex, Missy Elliott, & Mr. Oizo
Here’s an intense track packed with rapid-fire development and energetic sound! It’s a collaboration between Skrillex, Missy Elliott, and Mr.
Oizo.
The vivid beat fuses EDM and hip-hop, with the meticulous production of America’s Skrillex and the experimental sound of France’s Mr.
Oizo blending perfectly, while Missy Elliott’s powerful rap injects even more energy.
Released in February 2023 as part of the album “QUEST FOR FIRE,” it quickly captured the hearts of the club scene and dance music fans.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to move on the dance floor or need an energy boost.
Can’t Tell Me NothingKanye West
A track released as a single by Kanye West in 2007.
It reached No.
8 on the U.S.
charts and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
The cover art was designed by the Japanese artist Takashi Murakami.
No ProblemLil Scrappy
Lil Scrappy is a rapper who has been active in the hip-hop scene in Atlanta and the southeastern United States since 2002.
This track was released as a single in 2004.
The music video was inspired by the film Training Day.
Hit ‘Em Up (Dirty)2Pac
A classic loved by many heads as the greatest diss track in hip-hop history, “Hit ’Em Up (Dirty)” is a legendary song by West Coast icon 2Pac.
Released as the B-side to “How Do You Want It,” it drew worldwide attention despite being a B-side, partly because it dropped in the midst of the East–West rivalry.
I’ll refrain from delving into the details of the feud and the disses, but that backdrop bleeds through the rap.
If you’re looking for hip-hop that captures the West Coast vibe, this is a must-listen track.
Nazi Punks Fuck OffDead Kennedys
Dead Kennedys are a punk rock band formed in San Francisco in 1978.
They are well known for their political, satirical lyrics.
This track was released as a single in 1981 and reached No.
11 on the UK charts.
SLEEZY BASTARD (SLASHER PT. 1)SosMula
Soss Mula, a pioneer of trap metal born from the streets of New York.
The Brazil-born artist’s new track dropping in July 2024 is the very definition of a menacing, hard-hitting banger.
Fusing aggressive rap with ominous beats, the song lays bare its violent themes.
Its distinctive sound, reminiscent of New York’s underground music scene, is sure to resonate with fans of underground hip-hop.
Known as a member of City Morgue, his solo work is perfect for those seeking dark, avant-garde music.
The lyrics, which depict crime and dangerous situations, are extreme, but they reflect the reality of the streets.