


It's impossible to capture the full creative breadth and cultural importance of this music, but this list of some of the best hip-hop songs of all time will get you off to a strong start. Whether you're looking for fuel for a workout playlist, old-school throwbacks to dance to, or songs that help deepen your understanding of the world around you, hip-hop has all the bases covered. The following 54 songs span the evolution of the art form, from its early roots (Grandmaster Flash's "The Message," Public Enemy's "Fight the Power") to its iconic East Coast–West Coast era (The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Juicy," 2Pac's "California Love,") to its pop chart domination (50 Cent's "In Da Club," Kanye West's "Touch the Sky") and into its diverse future (Cardi B's "Bodak Yellow," Tyler, the Creator's "See You Again," and "Moment 4 Life" by Nicki Minaj, featuring Drake). Dave East & Desiigner join UK rapper Fredo on his new song Keep It Real. to the distinct Southern culture explored by artists like Ludacris and Lil Wayne, to Kendrick Lamar's "Alright" becoming a rallying cry at Black Lives Matter events, the history of hip-hop is the history of modern America, told by those who are often the most marginalized. From the gritty streets of Compton that birthed N.W.A. In 2017, it became America's most popular genre in total consumption, according to Nielsen, and it has grown globally, too, dominating the streaming era and molding the rest of pop music in its image.Īt the core of rap is the Black American experience, something these musicians have been painstakingly documenting for years. The artist is multi-faceted, and you should follow him on Instagram to stay updated with all the projects on his already diverse profile.Hip-hop's origin as the soundtrack of New York City block parties is well-known, but no one could have predicted where the genre would go in just 40 years. Shortly, Detroit YB will release his second album, entitled “ Living Sacrifice,” and produce a short film. “ Keep It Real” is just a fragment of things to get excited about. So, his grind isn’t stopping anytime soon. Naturally, Detroit YB commands both your audio and visual recognition from the video’s start to the end.ĭetroit YB knows good things don’t come easy. Packed with agile camera angles and complimenting edits, the “ Keep It Real” music video entrances you. The official “ Keep It Real” music video only adds intrigue to an already attention-grabbing track. But his flow and the resolute way he delivers his bars is nothing short of engrossing. Potent vocals paired with thought-provoking lyrics help the rapper get your attention. That said, Detroit YB has a voice born to make music. In the case of “ Keep It Real,” Detroit YB only accentuates how hard the rhythm hits. Shaw, 10 Best Ghostwritten Rap Songs of All Time, Rolling Out, lastmodified August 17,2012. No matter how authoritative a beat is, it’s only as good as the artist on the track. Still, the somber piano melody carries on lightly in the background, pouring emotion so rich it’s palpable. You might call it arrogant, but most of us can only dream of having that kind of awareness about our own identity. Rap and rap artists' neverending quest to keep it real is not limited to. The song is an anthem of confidence and self-assuredness as the rappers assert that they are the rulers of the hip hop industry and no one is above them. But, after a few tranquil moments, heavy 808s pulsate, offering a classic rap feel to the track. While it was the first rap love song I had ever heard, it will not be the last.

“ Keep It Real,” produced by DBThePlug Beats, starts flowing through the speakers gradually, giving you time to warm up to the song’s tone. Growing up where I’m from, we breed bosses, so it all coincides – Detroit YB. … that’s how I carry myself personally and business-wise, and it’s also what the city of Detroit represents. His first full-length since 2020s My Turn marked a cultural event for Atlanta rap. On the other hand, the “YB” portion of the rapper’s name stands for “Yung Boss,” drawing attention to the way he carries himself. Fans knew Baby would come correct on Its Only Me album opener Real Spill. Therefore, Detroit YB felt compelled to incorporate the city’s name as part of his stage name. As a well-known drummer, Detroit YB’s stepfather planted a passion in the rapper’s heart that continues to fuel him 14 years after his passing.ĭetroit, Michigan, was an integral part of shaping the artist into who he is today. But in actuality, Detroit YB’s stepfather deserves credit for being his initial push to get into music. For 11 years, the “Hustle By Any Means” CEO has laid down a suave flow while constantly growing and maturing as an artist. Authentic lyrics, a reverberating rhythm, and a first-rate flow are just a few things Detroit YB hands you on his latest single, “ Keep It Real.” The Detroit, Michigan-born rapper, songwriter, and record producer’s star-studded talent shine bright, setting him up for continued success in the music game.ĭetroit YB is no stranger to the music industry.
