

It’s an adrenaline-fueled journey through the underworld that remains an influential classic in the history of mafioso hip hop. G Rap’s complex storytelling, delivered in his signature rapid-fire flow, creates a high-stakes chase over Sir Jinx’s gritty, boom-bap production.
#Greatest 90s hip hop songs full
Kool G Rap & DJ Polo - “On the Run”Ĭonsidered pioneers of the mafioso rap subgenre, Kool G Rap & DJ Polo’s “On the Run” is a cinematic narrative full of intricate wordplay and vivid imagery. Frontman Boots Riley’s vivid storytelling and social commentary make the song an engaging, insightful exploration of life’s grim realities. The Coup - “Me And Jesus The Pimp In A ’79 Granada Last Night”Īs one of the most underrated gems of the ’90s, The Coup’s “Me And Jesus The Pimp In A ’79 Granada Last Night” delivers a poignant narrative over a funk-infused backdrop.

It’s a track that exemplifies the laid-back, party-centric mood of the West Coast rap scene in the ’90s, lacing it with a healthy dose of streetwise charm and charisma. With Michel’le’s soulful chorus and the G-funk beats acting as the backdrop, Daz Dillinger and Kurupt spit playful yet provocative lines about love and relationships.

“Let’s Play House” is one of the prime examples of Daz and Kurupt’s ability to blend infectious hooks, smooth production, and raw lyricism. From Wu-Tang’s timeless hustler anthem “C.R.E.A.M.” to 2Pac’s call-to-arms on “Ambitionz az a Ridah” and Big’s rags-to-riches story on “Juicy,” we rank the top 150 best ’90s rap songs. A tribute to the West Coast lifestyle, Snoop Doggy Dogg’s “Gin & Juice” and Warren G and Nate Dogg’s “Regulate” served as timeless cultural timestamps of ‘90s hip hop.Īs the ’90s progressed, rappers and producers continued to push boundaries, with songs like OutKast’s hypnotic “Elevators (Me & You)” redefining the sound of Southern hip hop, and Jay-Z’s introspective “D’Evils” exploring the darker side of ambition. State of Mind,” these songs would go on to define an era of rap that continues to inspire generations. As hip hop artists continued to push the envelope throughout the decade, a rich tapestry of diverse sounds from every rap region was woven, with tracks that would leave a timeless imprint on the culture.įrom Common’s unapologetically honest ode to the changing landscape of hip hop on “I Used to Love H.E.R.” to Nas’s raw, introspective journey through the gritty streets of Queensbridge on “N.Y. Arguably the greatest decade in hip hop history, the ’90s emerged as an era teeming with innovative lyricists, game-changing producers and culture-defining songwriters.
