Music

Best 90s hip-hop songs

Explore the golden era of rap with a definitive selection of 90s hip-hop tracks. This list celebrates East Coast and West Coast rap classics, featuring legendary artists and their most influential songs. From underground rap to chart-topping hits, discover the music that defined a decade. Ideal for old-school hip-hop fans and those looking to explore the genre's origins.

583100% verified
  1. 1

    Mama Said Knock You Out (1990)

    221 Global Votes
    • Captures a determined artist refusing to stay down

      (+4)

    This is LL Cool J's powerful comeback anthem, demonstrating his lyrical prowess and resilience. Its aggressive delivery and beat sampling James Brown's 'Funky Drummer' made it an instant classic.

  2. 2

    N.Y. State of Mind – Nas (1994)

    151 Global Votes
    • Paints a cinematic picture of life in Queensbridge

      (+4)

    A phenomenal track from Nas's debut album *Illmatic*, it features a funky jazz rhythm underpinning Nas's symbolism-steeped depiction of life in New York. This song showcases his unparalleled lyrical dominance.

  3. 3

    Mind Playing Tricks On Me (1991)

    67 Global Votes
    • Ranked among the greatest hip-hop songs of all time

      (+4)

    This track is the crown jewel of the Geto Boys' discography, delving into dark and personal themes of paranoia and sanity. Its raw, vivid lyricism makes it widely considered one of the greatest hip-hop songs ever written.

  4. 4

    Shook Ones Pt. II (1995)

    58 Global Votes
    • Iconic rap track of the 1990s

      (+4)

    The undisputed centerpiece of Mobb Deep's album *The Infamous*, this dark and gritty track is a contender for the greatest hip-hop song ever written. It cemented Prodigy and Havoc's place in history and played a key role in the East Coast renaissance.

  5. 5

    Regulate (1994)

    40 Global Votes
    • Reached No. 2 on Billboard charts

      (+4)

    A quintessential G-funk track that became a massive hit, celebrated for its smooth production, Warren G's storytelling, and Nate Dogg's iconic melodic hook. It perfectly blends narrative with a laid-back vibe.

  6. All the rankings you can imagine

    Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts

  7. 6

    Nuthin' But A 'G' Thang (1992)

    25 Global Votes
    • Definitive G-Funk anthem

      (+4)

    A defining moment in West Coast hip-hop, this track introduced Snoop Dogg's laid-back flow and Dre's innovative G-funk sound. It shifted the power balance in rap and became a timeless classic.

  8. 7

    I Used To Love H.E.R. (1994)

    19 Global Votes
    • Uses extended metaphor of a woman for hip-hop

      (+4)

    An allegorical narrative where Common personifies hip-hop as a woman, reflecting on the genre's evolution and commercialization. It's praised for its lyrical depth and profound social commentary.

  9. 8

    They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.) (1992)

    1 Global Votes
    • Exemplifies hip-hop as a positive hauntological force

      (+4)

    This track is a heartfelt tribute and a masterpiece of smooth beats and poetic flow, widely considered one of the greatest hip-hop songs ever. It showcases Pete Rock's production genius and CL Smooth's lyrical depth.

  10. 9

    Passin' Me By (1992)

    1 Global Votes
    • A true classic from debut album

      (+4)

    From their debut album, this track is a certified hip-hop classic that stands out for its clever rhymes, goofy charm, and relatable themes of unrequited love. It offered a refreshing contrast to the prevalent gangsta rap of the time.

  11. 10

    C.R.E.A.M. (1993)

    0 Global Votes
    • Released as a single from Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)

      (+4)

    Standing for 'Cash Rules Everything Around Me,' this track is a cornerstone of the Wu-Tang Clan's legacy and a defining song of East Coast hip-hop. It's renowned for its raw lyricism and RZA's distinctive production.

  12. 11

    Dear Mama (1995)

    0 Global Votes
    • Tribute to his mother

      (+2)

    This powerful and emotional tribute to his mother is celebrated for its raw honesty and universal themes of love and struggle. It remains one of 2Pac's most beloved and impactful songs.

  13. 12

    Check The Rhime (1991)

    0 Global Votes
    • First single from The Low End Theory

      (+4)

    A classic example of A Tribe Called Quest's jazz-infused, intelligent hip-hop, this song is known for its laid-back vibe and clever wordplay. It perfectly encapsulates their unique sound and style.

  14. 13

    It Was A Good Day (1992)

    0 Global Votes
    • Describes a perfect day

      (+4)

    This is a narrative masterpiece depicting a rare day of peace and positivity in South Central Los Angeles. It showcases Ice Cube's exceptional storytelling ability, offering a different perspective from his usual aggressive tracks.

  15. 14

    Juicy (1994)

    0 Global Votes
    • Tells a rags-to-riches chronicle

      (+4)

    This is a rags-to-riches chronicle with vivid storytelling, depicting Biggie's journey from hardship to success. It's set against a soulful sample of Mtume's 'Juicy Fruit,' making it an iconic and aspirational anthem.

  16. 15

    93 'Til Infinity (1993)

    0 Global Votes
    • Represents the sound and feel of the early '90s to perfection

      (+4)

    An expertly crafted, melodically chilled, and cleverly constructed jam that merges jazz and funk samples. This track perfectly represents the Oakland crew's unique style and laid-back vibe.

  17. 16

    Mass Appeal (1994)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic song

      (+4)

    A quintessential Gang Starr track, known for Guru's distinctive flow and DJ Premier's iconic production. It critiques the commercialization of hip-hop while ironically achieving mainstream success itself.

  18. 17

    Ruff Ryders' Anthem (1998)

    0 Global Votes
    • Marked the beginning of DMX's rise to the top

      (+4)

    A high-energy, aggressive anthem that became a signature track for DMX and the Ruff Ryders label. It's known for its raw power, infectious hook, and undeniable impact on late 90s hip-hop.

  19. 18

    O.P.P. (1991)

    0 Global Votes
    • Became a pop hit, reaching No. 6 on Billboard Hot 100

      (+3)

    A hugely popular and catchy track that brought Naughty By Nature mainstream success. It's known for its infectious beat and playful lyrics, becoming a party staple of the early 90s.

  20. 19

    Sound Of Da Police (1993)

    0 Global Votes
    • Addresses police brutality

      (+4)

    A powerful and politically charged anthem from KRS-One, known for its iconic siren-like hook and sharp social commentary on police brutality. It remains a potent and relevant protest song.