Throwback song Archives - New Hip Hop News

Revisiting Jay-Z’s “The Story Of O.J.” After O.J. Simpson’s Death

April 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Jay-Z entered a new phase of his career with 4:44 (2018). The Brooklyn icon was no longer chasing trends, as he’d been on his two previous albums, and instead embraced an older, more mature sound that broadened the possibilities of what hip-hop could represent. 4:44 is hailed as a classic today, and a lot of its appeal can be summarized in the song “The Story of O.J.” Hov uses the infamous running back as an example of the ills of American success. An example that takes on greater significance in the wake of O.J. Simpson’s death.

“The Story of O.J.” sees Jay detail a rags to riches story over a killer No I.D. instrumental. The further the song progresses, however, the more the protagonist is criticized for sacrificing his authenticity as a Black man. “The “Story of O.J.” uses O.J. Simpson’s infamous (albeit alleged) quote, “I’m not black, I’m O.J. as a microcosm of this societal and cultural divide. Jay-Z makes note of the same exact divide between him and rappers who fail to properly invest their money. “Y’all out here still takin’ advances, huh? Me and my n***as takin’ real chances,” he raps. “Y’all on the ‘Gram holdin’ money to your ear, there’s a disconnect, we don’t call that money over here.”

Jay-Z Posits O.J. Simpson As A Cautionary Tale

The O.J. reference is something most fans comprehend, but the rest of the song’s title often goes unnoticed. “The Story of O.J.” is an allusion to the 1954 French novel The Story of O, which explores themes of submission and dominance. Once more, Jay-Z is using metaphor to convey the complicated relationship that America has with Black celebrity. The sample of Nina Simone’s “Four Women” is the cherry on top of this socially conscious standout. No I.D. chopped it, but he later told Genius that Jay picked it out. Both are credited as producers.

Jay also sat down with Genius to discuss the song’s impact. He articulated much of what has already been discussed here, but added a crucial addendum: hope. The rapper sees O.J. Simpson, who died from cancer at age 76, as a cautionary tale for future generations to learn from. Avoiding the mistakes O.J. made will make for better celebrities, better role models, and a better society. “We all make money, and then we all lose money, as artists especially,” Hov noted. “But how, when you have some type of success, to transform that into something bigger.”

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Travis Scott And Young Thug’s “OUT WEST” Shows Why They Are The Best Psychedelic Trap Duo

December 27, 2023 by newhiphopnews

When you think of the top-flight trap artists, what are some names that come to mind? For us, Travis Scott and Young Thug are near the top of that list. These two have a slightly different approach when it comes to their methodology of trap. Each takes a more wavy, woozy, and psychedelic direction compared to most. Since 2014, La Flame and Thug have been working closely together.

It all started on the Houston artist’s second project, Days Before Rodeo. “Skyfall” and “Mamacita” got things started. Since then, Scott and Thugger have nailed the perfect formula that transports you to their drug-filled world. One of the prime examples of this was 2019’s “OUT WEST.” Four years ago today, Travis’ label Cactus Jack Records released their debut collaborative album, JACKBOYS.

Relisten To “OUT WEST” By Travis Scott And Young Thug

The tight seven-song tape saw him and Thug bring a laid-back but turnt party anthem. Buddah Bless provided a floaty beat with a killer flute sample. Travis and Thug matched each other perfectly once again. The Georgia artist brought a killer chorus, while Scott, delivered his signature low-key and effortless flow on the second verse. With so many great songs together, it is nearly impossible to find the perfect spot to rank this offering.

What were your initial thoughts on “OUT WEST” by Travis Scott and Young Thug? Is this still the best song from Scott’s JACKBOYS tape? Where do you rank this track amongst the rest of his and Thug’s collaborations? Do you think that these two are the best duo when it comes to making psychedelic trap songs? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Travis Scott, Young Thug, and JACKBOYS. Finally, stay with us for the best song posts throughout the week.

Quotable Lyrics:

These days, I balance all the hate out with the love
These days, I pour all of my pain out in a cup (Drank)
Dreamy, that’s just a side effect when you with us (Game)
Easy, the dawgs is right behind me, they on edge
Believe me, we pop out in the city to collect (Ooh)
Vibes in this b****, they surprised that I lived (It’s lit)

The post Travis Scott And Young Thug’s “OUT WEST” Shows Why They Are The Best Psychedelic Trap Duo appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Snoop Dogg Mixed Comedy With Gangsta Rap On 2000 Hit “Lay Low” Featuring Master P, Nate Dogg, And More

December 19, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Snoop Dogg’s legacy is firmly cemented within hip-hop lore. He has iconic albums, is one of the best entrepreneurs, and is highly respected amongst his peers, past and present. With so many records under his belt, some are going to get lost in the shuffle. One of which is 2000’s Tha Last Meal.

The LP marks his fifth effort and some of his more underrated material on it. It was released on this day 23 years ago. Today, we wanted to shed light on a funny but also serious West Coast groove from it. “Lay Low” saw Snoop assemble a tremendous cast of artists and producers for a rowdy banger.

Listen To “Lay Low” By Snoop Dogg, Master P, Nate Dogg, Butch Cassidy, And Tha Eastsidaz

It features the likes of legends Master P, Nate Dogg, as well as Butch Cassidy and Tha Eastsidaz. Additionally, Dr. Dre is in the mix behind the board and on the mic. He kicks the track with a spoken word bit before one of the greatest hook writers comes in. Nate brings gnarly but admittedly quite amusing lyrics to the table. The beat has that familiar West Coast/G-funk style that hits heavy. Revisit the track with the link above.

What were your initial thoughts on “Lay Low,” by Snoop Dogg featuring Master P, Nate Dogg, Tha Eastsidaz, and Butch Cassidy? Is this one of Snoop’s most underrated hits, why or why not? Out of all the tracks on Tha Last Meal is this the best track? Do you view him as the most influential West Coast rapper of all time? If so, why? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around West Coast hip-hop. Finally, stay with us for all of the best song posts throughout the week.

Quotable Lyrics:

For the n**** who be talking loud and holding his d**k, talking s***
He better lay low
For the b**** that said I shot some shit up out of my d**k, now she sick
She better lay low
For the n****s who be claiming my hood
And really ain’t from my gang, better lay low

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Xzibit Brought Some Funk And Great Rhyme Schemes To “Alkaholik” Featuring Erick Sermon, J-Ro, & Tash

December 12, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Xzibit has noticeably slowed down since 2020. That was the last year that the iconic West Coast rapper put out a full-length album. It was a collaborative record with B-Real and Demrick, called Serial Killers Presents: Summer of Sam. But, we all need to remember that the Dr. Dre collaborator possessed some incredible talent. That is why we want to go back in the time machine and look at his most successful record.

23 years ago today, Restless dropped. It was a 16-song, 59-minute-long album that featured the likes of Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and many others. One of the tracks that so many remember from this tape is “Alkaholik.” That had placements from J-Ro, Erick Sermon, and Tash.

Relisten To “Alkaholik” By Xzibit, Erick Sermon, J-Ro, And Tash

The song effortlessly mixed funkiness with tremendous rhyming from Xzibit and the gang. “Alkaholik” interpolates the production from Kelis’ “Caught Out There.” What makes the sample so great is that on this track it takes on a vintage video game-like feeling. Everyone brought the right energy for this party-ready classic.

What were your initial thoughts on “Alkaholik” by Xzibit, Erick Sermon, J-Ro, and Tash when it first came out? Is this the best song off of Restless, if not what is better? Do you think this is Xzibit’s best album, why or why not? Who had the best performance on this track? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Xzibit. Furthermore, stay with us for some throwback song posts throughout the week.

Quotable Lyrics:

It’s that millenium ridiculous flow, I never let go
N****s gettin’ knocked out is part of my show
Let them know who they f****n’ with yo, a rhyme wrangler
Tri-angular push-up the hillside strangler
Dangle a, n**** by the ankle off the balcony
Now let his punk a** go, look out below (below)

The post Xzibit Brought Some Funk And Great Rhyme Schemes To “Alkaholik” Featuring Erick Sermon, J-Ro, & Tash appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Kid Cudi, Skepta, & Pop Smoke Effortlessly Blended Psychedelic Trap And Drill On “Show Out”

December 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Kid Cudi’s Man On the Moon series has been a cherished one ever since the first one debuted back in 2009. Each installment has provided some iconic hip-hop tracks for the 2010s decade and has helped define Cudster as an artist. What we have come to know and love about the Cleveland, Ohio native is that he is a malleable talent who is not afraid to try different sounds.

One of the prime examples of this occurs on his third entry, Man On the Moon III: The Chosen. We wanted to take a look back as the album is now three years old. Arguably the most memorable and well-put-together song is “Show Out.” On face value, you might be scratching your head as to how this would make sense. Seeing Skepta and Pop Smoke, two of the best drill artists, with a psychedelic pop rapper, does not sound like a recipe for success.

Relisten To “Show Out” By Kid Cudi, Skepta, And Pop Smoke

However, when you hear this song, everything just clicks. The beat from Dot da Genius is woozy and atmospheric, while also incorporating the familiar drill production style. On top of that, all of the performances are great. Pop does wonders on the hook. His smoky voice layers perfectly on top of the instrumental. Skepta shreds his verse with ease and Cudi finds a nice pocket on the drill and spacey ends of the beat. Another chance taken, another success for Cudi.

What were your initial thoughts on “Show Out” by Kid Cudi, Skepta, and Pop Smoke, off Man On the Moon III: The Chosen? Is this the best song from this album? Who had the best performance on the track? Does this record still hold a place in your rotation, why or why not? Finally, is where does this Man On the Moon installment rank amongst the rest? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Kid Cudi, Pop Smoke, and Skepta.

Quotable Lyrics:

Pop Smoke, big smoke
Clip in the stick, stick in the coat (Boom)
And they got guns same size as Kevin Hart
Please don’t think it’s a joke
Back on tour with the gang and it’s sold out
Twenty-two dates, I ain’t missin’ a show

The post Kid Cudi, Skepta, & Pop Smoke Effortlessly Blended Psychedelic Trap And Drill On “Show Out” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Metro Boomin And Gunna Took Us On An Intergalactic Odyssey With “Space Cadet”

November 2, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Metro Boomin has quite a few classic projects under his belt in his career. One of those that is in the conversation for that title is NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES. For some music aficionados, an album needs to be on the shelf for at least five years to see if it qualifies as an all-time great tape. Well, this project can enter those talks. On November 2, 2018, the St. Louis-born producer put out his highly-awaited debut album and there are plenty of highlights on it.

You have tracks like horn-synth laced “10 Freaky Girls,” with 21 Savage, which is one of his many standout features. “No More” is another one with him, Travis Scott, and Kodak Black getting personal, rapping about their internal struggles. However, arguably the most wavy and vibey cut on here is “Space Cadet.” Metro and Gunna proved they have chemistry in the past and this might be there best effort together.

Relisten To “Space Cadet” From Metro Boomin And Gunna

There are so many fantastic elements to this cut. The twinkly synth-heavy beat sets up the perfect alley-oop for Gunna to float over. To no surprise, he does just that while flexing his wealth. It makes for such an easy listen. “Space Cadet” truly puts you into space as you get to go on the drug-filled joyride with them.

What were your initial thoughts on “Space Cadet” from Metro Boomin and Gunna? Is this still the best song on NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES? Do believe this is Metro’s best project? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Metro Boomin, as well as all of the best throwback jams.

Quotable Lyrics:

Bought a spaceship, now I’m a space cadet (Space cadet)
Big white mansion is my habitat (Habitat)
Aim a lot of sticks like it’s laser tag (Laser tag)
F*** a rich b****, havin’ rich sex (Rich sex)
Smoke a lot of trees, need a weed plant (Weed plant)
Addicted to codeine, where the lean at? (Where the lean at?)

The post Metro Boomin And Gunna Took Us On An Intergalactic Odyssey With “Space Cadet” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Don Toliver And Kali Uchis Had Us Floating On “Drugs N Hella Melodies”

October 8, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Don Toliver’s rise to fame for most listeners began back in 2018 with his appearance on a big-time album. In 2018, he joined Travis Scott for a song off his album ASTROWORLD. With all of the features being hidden, some artists were hard to discern on first listen and Don was one of them. He captured listeners with his energetic and unique voice on “CAN’T SAY,” and the rest is history from there.

He went on to drop his debut album Heaven Or Hell in 2020 to much acclaim. Don showed he could command an album by himself and he quickly followed it up a year later. That brings us to the record of discussion today, Life Of A DON. This album just turned two and we wanted to celebrate its release with arguably the most popular and waviest song, “Drugs N Hella Melodies,” featuring Kali Uchis.

Relisten To “Drugs N Hella Melodies” By Don Toliver And Kali Uchis

This was the second lead single for L.O.A.D coming after the release of “What You Need.” The collaboration makes perfect sense seeing how the two have been dating for two years now. But, also, from a musical perspective, both of their voices create a harmonious symphony. The beat, partially provided by DJ Dahi, is very melodic, woozy, and transcendent. The song definitely lives up to its name.

What were your initial thoughts on “Drugs N Hella Melodies” from Don Toliver and Kali Uchis? Was this your favorite song on the first listen of Life Of A DON? Is this the best project he has ever put out? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news on Don Toliver, as well as all of the best throwback releases.

Quotable Lyrics:

S*x full of adrenaline
This p***y put you right to sleep just like a sedative
Not to sound conceited, I’m not one to brag
But I’m the girl you needed that you never had
Some people only see the negative
Some people find a way to see the good in everything

The post Don Toliver And Kali Uchis Had Us Floating On “Drugs N Hella Melodies” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

OutKast Celebrates 25th Anniversary Of “Aquemini” With Visuals For “SpottieOttieDopaliscious: Watch

October 1, 2023 by newhiphopnews

OutKast’s incredible reputation proceeds them at this point. Their massively successful catalog is undoubtedly one of the very best in hip-hop history. Of course, that goes to Big Boi and Andre 3000’s songwriting skills. They were able to create lush and colorful soundscapes in so many different ways, that there are not many who can replicate their artistry. Even with all of the vast talent in the Atlanta rap scene, you would be hard-pressed to find someone better than these two. The duo has been celebrating a lot this year. Namely, the anniversaries of their classic albums.

Two of their most well-known albums, ATLiens, and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, both hit incredible milestones. The first of the two just turned 27 a few days ago and the latter is 20 years old. Now, they paying homage to another one of their records, Aquemini. Their third project, released back in 1998 hit the 25th anniversary mark not too long ago. How did OutKast decide to celebrate this momentous occasion? They just put out some stunning, colorful, and trippy visuals for one of the tracks.

OutKast Puts Out Music Video For “SpottieOttieDopaliscious”

The one they chose to show love to is “SpottieOttieDopaliscious.” One of the longer tracks off of the project, it is a rich-sounding vibe filled with horns and a whole lot of soul. Unfortunately, there is no reunion of sorts in these visuals, just some eclectic color schemes and mind-bending sequences. Without being greedy, they do fit the song perfectly, showing that OutKast still has the creative juice. The video above was posted originally by HipHopDX.

What are your initial thoughts on these visuals from OutKast for “SpottieOttieDopaliscious” from Aquemini? Were you disappointed that they did not film a music video together for it? Is this your favorite song off of the album? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the hottest music videos, as well as all of the latest breaking news around the music world.

[Via]

The post OutKast Celebrates 25th Anniversary Of “Aquemini” With Visuals For “SpottieOttieDopaliscious: Watch appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Kanye West’s Timeless Classic “Through The Wire” Was Released 20 Years Ago Today

September 30, 2023 by newhiphopnews

When you think about the greatest artists ever, a lot of different names from all sorts of genres might come to mind. One that you cannot ignore is Kanye West. Atlanta-born and Chicago-raised, Ye has been viewed as a polarizing visionary for most, if not all of his career. That is no secret and has not been for a long time. However, from a purely music perspective, there is not many better than him.

His debut album was proof of that back in 2004. The College Dropout is viewed by many as still his greatest body of work even nearly two full decades later. Even with others like Graduation, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, and Late Registration, the original stands the test of time. With classics like “Jesus Walks,” and “All Falls Down,” it is not hard to see the vision. But, what basically shot Kanye into immediate star status was “Through The Wire.”

Relisten To “Through The Wire” From Kanye West

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It is a classic because of its amazing sampling of Chaka Khan’s “Through The Fire,” but there are plenty of other reasons too. For one, some of the recordings were done right after he broke his jaw in a nasty car accident. Even with his mouth nearly closed shut he was so dedicated that he laid down vocals anyway. On top of that, it is a great storytelling track, as you can see from some of the lyrics below. Kanye continues to inspire and create some of the best material all these years later, and it is all because of songs like “Through The Wire.”

What were your initial thoughts on Kanye West’s classic song “Through The Wire?” Is this his greatest song of all time? Is he the master of sampling and telling personal stories? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the best throwbacks, as well as all of the latest breaking news around the music world.

Quotable Lyrics:

I must got a angel, ‘cause look how death missed his a**
Unbreakable, what, you thought they’d call me Mr. Glass?
Look back on my life like the Ghost of Christmas Past
Toys “R” Us where I used to spend that Christmas cash
And I still won’t grow up, I’m a grown-a** kid
Swear I should be locked up for stupid **** that I did

The post Kanye West’s Timeless Classic “Through The Wire” Was Released 20 Years Ago Today appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Lil Nas X And Jack Harlow Had The Entire World Feeling As Confident As Ever On “INDUSTRY BABY”

September 17, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Rapper and singer Lil Nas X started off his musical career as a star, but his debut album catapulted him into megastar status. The Georgia artist had fans in a stranglehold for better or for worse with the release of “Old Town Road” back in 2019. Some musical listeners’ stomachs were turning inside and out at the fact that country and rap were topping the charts instead of the traditional formula. On top that, many felt Bill Ray Cyrus’s placement on the song was for the pure shock factor to get people’s attention.

Well, his controversial song paid off regardless, because Lil Nas X is now a massive force in the industry. But, he has always embraced his quirkiness and never has taken himself too seriously, which is why so many people gravitate toward his music. It is unapologetic and he could not care less if you approve of his stylistic choices. Many were already labeling him a one-hit wonder after “Old Town Road,” but boy were those people far from right. All he has done since that time is release some of the most ear-grabbing and catchy melodies of the past four years.

Listen To “INDUSTRY BABY” From Lil Nas X And Jack Harlow

One of those across his stacked discography is easily “INDUSTRY BABY.” You can find this hit and plenty of others on his debut album, MONTERO, which just turned two today. Its greatest asset is the relatability factor with its lyrics about proving people wrong and not letting the criticism drag you down. Both performances from Nas X and Jack Harlow are so fun and memorable. It is also a full-circle moment for the artist that is always uplifting to hear. On top of that, it boasts outstanding horn-laced production from Take A Daytrip and Kanye West. Unfortunately, with him busy with other venues, we have not gotten any music since 2022, but do not sleep on him, because many made that mistake already.

What were your initial thoughts on the song, “INDUSTRY BABY,” with Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow? Is this Nas X’s best song he has ever made? Is this the best song off of MONTERO? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the best throwback releases, as well as all of the latest breaking news around the music world.

Quotable Lyrics:

And this one is for the champions
I ain’t lost since I began, yeah
Funny how you said it was the end, yeah
Then I went did it again, yeah

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