production

Spotify’s Greatest Hip Hop Beats Of All Time: Here Are The Top 10

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Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of the best Hip Hop beats, as Spotify unveils its greatest selections. As we all know, “Top” lists in Hip Hop often create a stir. Whether it’s a debate over who is the greatest or conversing about artists deserving of Mount Rushmore placements, ranking artists always makes waves. After sharing its “50 Greatest Hip Hop Beats of All Time” list, Spotify did just that to celebrate Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary.

From the iconic sounds of Kanye West’s “Power” to the timeless groove of Dr. Dre’s “Still D.R.E.” and the contemporary vibes of Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode,” these tracks found themselves in the Top 10 spots. Arguably, the songs are considered some of Rap’s finest production moments, capturing the essence and evolution of Hip Hop. Stay tuned as we celebrate these incredible beats that have left an indelible mark on music history. Also, let us know if you think this Top 10 needs some adjusting.

10. “Get Ur Freak On” – Missy Elliott

Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On” is an iconic track that was released in 2001 as the lead single from her album Miss E… So Addictive. Produced by Timbaland, who also contributed guest vocals, “Get Ur Freak On” blends Eastern-inspired melodies with infectious beats. The track achieved immense chart success, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its groundbreaking sound. Its music video, directed by Dave Meyers, also became a cultural phenomenon. Missy’s dynamic flow and Timbaland’s inventive production help make “Get Ur Freak On” a timeless classic that continues to inspire.

9. “SICKO MODE” – Travis Scott ft. Drake, Swae Lee

Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode” is a game-changing hip-hop anthem that captivates listeners with its dynamic shifts. Released in 2018 as part of his album Astroworld, the song features guest appearances from Drake and Swae Lee, adding to its star-studded appeal. The production credits include a team of talented producers, namely Rogét Chahayed, Hit-Boy, OZ, Tay Keith, and Cubeatz. “Sicko Mode” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certifications. Its success can be attributed to its unconventional structure, seamlessly transitioning through different sonic landscapes. The song’s fusion of Trap, Hip Hop, and psychedelic elements speaks to Scott and production’s artistic vision.

8. “Still Tippin” – Mike Jones ft. Paul Wall & Slim Thug

Mike Jones’s “Still Tippin” is a definitive track that propelled him into the mainstream. Released in 2004, the song captivated audiences with its catchy hooks and infectious Southern sound. “Still Tippin” features guest verses from Slim Thug and Paul Wall, who added rounded out the track beautifully. The production credits go to Salih Williams, who crafted the hypnotic beat that became instantly recognizable.

Additionally, the song peaked at No. 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple in the emerging Houston rap scene. With its distinctive Texas flavor, “Still Tippin” solidified Mike Jones’s presence in the Rap game and remains a beloved anthem for Hip Hop fans.

7. “It’s All About the Benjamins (Remix)” – Puff Daddy & The Family

If you want to get the party started, this is the track. The “All About the Benjamins Remix” is a legendary collaboration that has become an anthem. Released in 1997, the track was a remix of the original song by Puff Daddy (now known as Diddy) and featured an all-star lineup of guest artists. This includes The Notorious B.I.G., Lil’ Kim, and Jadakiss. The production credits go to Diddy himself, alongside DJ Clue and Nashiem Myrick. “All About the Benjamins Remix” was a megahit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple in playlists.

6. “Power” – Kanye West

Kanye West’s “Power” arrived during a significant shift in the rapper’s career. “Power” was featured in My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, an album that some have hailed as West’s best. The track instantly grabbed attention with its grandeur and unapologetic lyrics. “Power” features a memorable sample of “21st Century Schizoid Man” by King Crimson and boasts production credits from West himself, along with S1, Jeff Bhasker, and Mike Dean. The song peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and received widespread critical acclaim. With its triumphant instrumentation and Kanye’s commanding presence, “Power” also stands as a testament to his creative genius.

5. “A Milli” – Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne’s “A Milli” is one of many classic favorites from the Louisiana icon. This one was pulled from Weezy’s Tha Carter III, released in 2008. Produced by Bangladesh, the song’s beat and hook became instantly recognizable. “A Milli” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned multi-Platinum certifications. The track is a solo effort from Lil Wayne, once again demonstrating his uncanny ability to craft hits alone of with his contemporaries by his side.

4. “Who Shot Ya?” – The Notorious B.I.G

The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Who Shot Ya?” was released in 1995 and initially faced controversy due to its timing. It was released shortly after the shooting of Tupac Shakur in New York—the incident that sparked the East Coast, West Coast controversy. However, “Who Shot Ya?” is not directly linked to the incident. The track also stands out with Biggie’s hard-hitting lyricism over a haunting beat produced by Nashiem Myrick and Poke. Notably, the song was not released as a single and didn’t chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Nonetheless, it has since gained immense recognition.

3. “Grindin” – The Clipse

The Clipse’s “Grindin” makes listeners want to pound on the closest desk. Released in 2002, the song instantly grabbed attention due to it’s The Neptunes production. Pusha T and Malice, the duo comprising The Clipse, also deliver gritty verses, embodying the hustler mentality. The track also peaked at No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has gone on to become a signature Hip Hop classic. There have been rumors of The Clipse getting together for a reunion, so maybe we’ll get a 2.0 for the new generation.

2. “Shook Ones, Pt. II” – Mobb Deep

Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Pt. II” is a timeless classic. Released in 1995, Havoc and Prodigy deliver sharp verses over a haunting beat. The song further epitomizes the hardcore East Coast sound of the mid-’90s. The production credits go to Havoc himself, who crafted the track’s atmospheric and menacing instrumental. “Shook Ones Pt. II” achieved critical acclaim and became an instant fan favorite, although it didn’t achieve significant commercial success on the charts. However, its impact on Hip Hop cannot be overstated, as it remains a benchmark for raw lyricism and street authenticity.

1. “Still Dre” – Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg

Compton and Long Beach, stand up! Dr. Dre’s iconic track “Still D.R.E” continues to resonate with Hip Hop fans worldwide. Released in 1999, Dre’s signature West Coast sound and features Snoop Dogg’s smooth verses come together beautifully. Dr. Dre himself co-produced the track alongside Scott Storch, infusing it with his trademark heavy beats and infectious melodies. The song’s production credits also include Mel-Man.

“Still D.R.E” achieved immense success on the charts, peaking at No. 93 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the Top 10 in several countries. Its impact extends beyond its chart performance, as it has become an anthem for Dre’s enduring influence. “Still D.R.E” remains a timeless classic that solidifies Dr. Dre’s status as a legendary figure in the genre.

Daz Dillinger Rejects Suge Knight’s “Doggystyle” Claim: “He’s Just Making Up Sh*t”

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Daz Dillinger shot down Suge Knight’s recent claim that Dr. Dre wasn’t the mastermind producer behind Snoop Dogg‘s iconic 1993 album, Doggystyle. Suge Knight alleged that Dillinger was the true artist behind the album, but signed it over to Dr. Dre. In response, Dillinger took to Instagram to proclaim Dre is the “best producer in the world.”

“Whats up y’all it’s Daz Dillinger giving y’all the news and info that I’m looking at,” he began in a video post. “Hey, Dr. Dre is the best producer in the motherfucking world. I did not have nothing to do with that, Dr. Dre did that on his own. Suge Knight is lying, I ain’t sign a motherfucking thing. He’s just covering shit up because of everything that Snoop has uncovered in the Death Row unveiling of all the business and shady shit that Alan Grunblatt, little fat fucker, and what they was doing and how they was still in cahoots with Suge Knight. So he’s just making up shit right now.”

Daz Dillinger Performing In 2022

ONTARIO, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 19: Rapper Daz Dillinger of Tha Dogg Pound performs onstage during the High Hopes Concert Series produced by Bobby Dee Presents at Toyota Arena on November 19, 2022 in Ontario, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

Suge Knight made his claim during an interview from prison with TMZ Hip Hop. He’s currently serving 28 years in prison after pleading no contest to voluntary manslaughter in a fatal 2015 hit-and-run. “What’s so great about Daz is, this guy, I went to him and said, ‘We gotta finish the album,’” Suge told the outlet.

He continued: “He did the whole — he did everything on Doggystyle. By himself. The whole album was done. He did everything. He produced it. So when it was time to come out, the streets said, well, they want Andre [Dr. Dre] to be on it. And Andre said, ‘I want to be on there.’ So Andre went to Daz and said, ‘Look man, let me say it was produced by me, and put my name on it. You’ll get paid, but let me be the one who produced it.”

Daz Dillinger’s Response To Suge Knight

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Suge Knight Claims Dr. Dre Didn’t Produce Snoop Dogg’s “Doggystyle”

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Suge Knight says that Dr. Dre wasn’t responsible for Snoop Dogg‘s groundbreaking album, Doggystyle. Instead, he claims that Daz Dillinger was the mastermind behind the production on the project. The former Death Row Records CEO discussed the making of the album during a recent interview with TMZ published on Saturday.

“What’s so great about Daz is, this guy, I went to and said, ‘We gotta finish the album,’” Suge told the publication. “He did the whole — he did everything on Doggystyle. By himself. The whole album was done. He did everything. He produced it.”

Suge Knight With Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre

American rapper and producer Dr Dre (born Andre Young), record executive Suge Knight (born Marion Knight Jr), and rapper Snoop Dogg (born Calvin Broadus Jr) attend the premiere party for ‘Murder Was the Case’ (directed by Dre and Fab Five Freddy), New York, New York, circa 1995. The short film starred Snoop Doog and it’s soundtrack was released on Knight’s record label. (Photo by Nitro/Getty Images)

From there, he explained why he feels Dr. Dre was the one who ended up getting the credit. “So when it was time to come out, the streets said, well, they want Andre [Dr. Dre] to be on it. And Andre said, ‘I want to be on there.’ So Andre went to Daz and said, ‘Look man, let me say it was produced by me, and put my name on it. You’ll get paid, but let me be the one who produced it,” he said. “So I told Daz, ‘That’s something he wanted to do. I don’t recommend it, because you’re the one who produced it, and you’re giving up your publishing.’ So, Daz signed paperwork, and said it was produced by Dre.”

Doggystyle ended up being released in November 1993. In its first week, it moved more than 800,000 copies and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. In the decades since its release, it’s been regarded as one of the most significant albums of the 1990s. The RIAA has since certified it 4× Platinum, selling over 11 million copies worldwide.

Suge Knight On The Making Of “Doggystyle”

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Just Blaze Says JAY-Z‘s “U Don’t Know” Was Made For Busta Rhymes & Prodigy

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Just Blaze says that JAY-Z‘s 2001 song “U Don’t Know” was originally made for Busta Rhymes and Prodigy. The iconic producer explained the origins of the song during the latest episode of IDEA GENERATION. The song was featured on the tracklist to JAY-Z’s sixth studio album, The Blueprint.

“‘U Don’t Know’ was at one point going to be Busta and Prodigy,” Just Blaze revealed on the show. From there, he explained how he and Prodigy were close friends. “A lot of people don’t know, me and P used to hang out a lot,” he said. “I still don’t have a lot of rap friends, right? He was one of the few people to actually come to the house. It was wild because then [The Alchemist] ended up moving around the corner from me. So ‘U Don’t Know’ had been done and then I made ‘Song Cry,’ like, the second night after Jay finished recording whatever he was recording that day.”

JAY-Z Promoting “The Blueprint” In 2001

LOS ANGELES, CA – AUGUST, 2001: American rapper, songwriter, record executive, businessman, and media proprietor Jay-Z promotes his sixth studio album “The Blueprint” circa August, 2001 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images)

While Just Blaze couldn’t recall exactly how the beat came together, JAY-Z revealed how it was made during an interview with XXL back in 2009. He explained that Just Blaze and Kanye West were having a beat-making battle when it came about.

“During that time, I had two rooms in Baseline,” Hov said at the time. “It was a big room that I was in, that I’d record in. Then it was a small room that Just would be in doing beats. What happened was, Just would peep his head in and hear what me and Kanye was doing and would just go back mad. Like, go back and just go [pounds fist on table], and just come in and be like, ‘Yo.’ And it was like this every day. It was like a heavyweight slugfest. For three days they was just knocking each other out. And I remember him playing that joint, and I was like, ‘Oh my God.’”

Revisit JAY-Z‘s Classic, “U Don’t Know”

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LL Cool J Speaks On Upcoming Album, Praises Q-Tip’s Production

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LL Cool J recently opened up about his forthcoming album and praised the legendary Q-Tip for his excellent executive production. While the rapper celebrated a big night at the 65th Grammy Awards red carpet, he’s got an even bigger year ahead. Moreover, this new LP from LL will be his first since 2013’s Authentic. “I know all the tricks. I got this covered,” he expressed to E! News. “Look, it was executive produced by Q-Tip. The album I think is really, really special. I think it’s something it’s modern without chasing. It’s a whole new thing. I can’t wait for the people to see it.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 05: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Melle Mel, LL Cool J and GloRilla performs during the 65th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris/FilmMagic)

“I think honestly and sincerely that Q-Tip as a producer is unbelievable and what he did on this record for me, I think is amazing,” he continued. “So the world will decide.” Shortly after the Grammys, the rap pioneer doubled down on his promo via Twitter. “My new album is coming this year,” he wrote earlier today (February 6). Also, he previously teased his next album on his 55th birthday. “I’m competing with myself on this new album. Wait til you hear this MF,” the MC tweeted. “This year B. It’s coming.” As he also celebrates hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, it’s going to be a big year for the Rock The Bells mogul.

On that note, he hosted a celebration for the genre at the Grammy awards ceremony. Alongside The Roots, with the occasion curated by their drummer and icon Questlove, he blended different eras of hip-hop together. While DJ Jazzy Jeff and DJ Drama controlled the mixers, hip-hop history unfolded on the Grammys stage. It began with performances from some of its pioneers: Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run-DMC, and LL Cool J himself. Then, the show moved through a barrage of rap icons playing some of their biggest hits.

Meanwhile, the newer generations also got their slice of the pie. Following Method Man, Queen Latifah, and Public Enemy, artists like Missy Elliott, Nelly, and Busta Rhymes kept the energy up. Finally, the show rounded out with some big current names like Lil Baby, GloRilla, and Lil Uzi Vert. Between this and more great music from some of the genre’s legends, all we can do is wait patiently and take it all in. As always, log back into HNHH for the latest on LL Cool J, upcoming albums, and the artistry of hip-hop.

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Logic Says He Made An Entire Album Over J Dilla Beats But Scrapped It

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Logic says he recorded an entire album over beats made by J Dilla but decided against releasing it. Logic discussed the unreleased project during a recent YouTube live stream.

“I did a whole J Dilla album but that’s another story for another time,” Logic said. “And it was nothing with the estate… everything was fine, I was like, ‘I’m straight.’ Like, I recorded this whole J Dilla album with all unreleased beats and shit and I was like, ‘I’m OK.’ I’d rather see Boldy [James] do it, he’s gonna fuckin’ kill it. The fact that I could even rap on it was really good. And who knows, maybe it’ll see the light of day one day. We’ll see.”

INGLEWOOD, CA – AUGUST 27: Logic performs onstage during the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards at The Forum on August 27, 2017 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

As for Boldy James’ work with Dilla, the project will reportedly be titled, Drug Dilla. He first revealed that he had the “last of the Dilla stash” during an interview last June.

“A lot of people owe their success, you know, not owe their success, but he alley-ooped a lot of people’s success,” he told D-Stroy at the time. “The list goes on, I’m not about to start name-dropping, but if you don’t know who this guy is, you need to do your history. J Dilla, Detroit, stand up.”

Before then, James will be releasing a project entirely produced by Real Bad Man. The album, titled ADU, is only releasing on vinyl, CD, and cassettes. ADU is scheduled to drop on January 16.

As for Logic, he’s busy on the family side of things with his wife, Brittney Noell, expecting their second child. The couple made the announcement on New Year’s Day.

Check out Logic’s comments below.

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Metro Boomin Details Process Working With Young Thug

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Metro Boomin detailed his process for working with Young Thug during a recent appearance on the Full Send Podcast. The Heroes & Villains producer says they would take new records to local clubs to observe the reactions.

“Man, me and [Young] Thug used to do songs and like, soon as we get done doing it, like this is when we still had CDs, I would burn a CD on the computer and we would go to the club and would take it to the DJ like, ‘Yo, let’s go hear this and see what’s going on,’” Metro Boomin said. “And watch everybody’s reaction, you know, vibe out, throw some money and get everybody hype.”

HOUSTON, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 17: Metro Boomin performs in concert during the inaugural Astroworld Festival at NRG Park on November 17, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images)

Two collaborations with Young Thug ended up on Metro Boomin’s new album, Heros & Villians. They include the Travis Scott-assisted, “Trance,” and “Metro Spider.” The album peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 while moving 185,000 album-equivalent units in its first week.

While their two new tracks are out now, Young Thug and Metro Boomin weren’t able to do their usual process of testing them out. Thug is currently awaiting trial for a RICO case that is set to begin next month. His YSL partner, Gunna, agreed to a plea deal with the prosecution, last week. He’s since been released from jail.

Looking ahead, Metro Boomin is set to contribute to the soundtrack to the highly anticipated film, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. He confirmed the news in a post on Instagram, last week. The movie will hit theaters on June 2, 2023.

Check out Metro Boomin’s appearance on the Full Send Podcast below.

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