Hitmaka, formally known as Yung Berg, has a music career that dates back to 2008. With over 15 years in the rap game, Hitmaka’s career now boasts over 75 million records sold. From Rap heavyweights to Pop and R&B superstars, Hitmaka’s production credits are full of hits. Combining familiar samples with updated flare, as well as hard-hitting 808s and cool synths, has made the megaproducer’s signature style one that keeps you moving. Here are five best-selling, hardest-hitting Hitmaka songs.
5. “Back Home” – Trey Songz feat. Summer Walker (2020)
The first single from the Trey Songz album of the same name, “Back Home,” set the tone for it. The song made it to No. 1 on the Adult R&B Songs chart. This was Trey Songz’s third No. 1 record on the chart and the first for newcomer Summer Walker. The instrumental for “Back Home” showcases the main attractions of Hitmaka’s catchy signature style. The use of Rose Royce’s “I’m Going Down” was reminiscent of Cameron’s “Oh Boy.”
His modern uniqueness and familiarity with the sample give this song a groovy yet laid-back vibe. The hard-hitting drums combine perfectly with the mellow tone of the sample, meshing with the hypnotic vocals of Trey Songz and Summer Walker. One of the bigger R&B hits of 2020, this song shows off the producer’s versatility.
4. “Dangerous” – Meek Mill feat. Jeremih & PnB Rock (2018)
The smash summer hit of 2018 made waves on the radio and charts, marking a big year for Meek Mill. “Dangerous,” which features Jeremih and the late PnB Rock, is an RIAA-certified platinum-selling record. This Hitmaka song peaked at No. 18 on the US Billboard Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Songs chart.
Sampling Jodeci’s “Come and Talk To Me,” the instrumental’s meshes well with Meek Mill’s toned-down flow. A far cry from Meek’s other high-energy singles, the subtle 808s complement the change of pace in the song’s slow tempo. The steady rate of the drums keeps a strong balance of bounce and sexiness on the R&B-influenced rap hit.
3. “Bounce Back” – Big Sean (2017)
One of Big Sean’s biggest singles to date, “Bounce Back,” eventually became a certified 6x platinum-selling record. The song is also one of many Hitmaka songs to receive a Grammy nomination. “Bounce Back” received a nomination for Best Rap Performance at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards. It peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Co-produced with Metro Boomin and Smash David, the “Bounce Back” instrumental is full of swagger. The low-toned synths and chorus combined with the heavy drums make this Hitmaka song one that keeps your head nodding for the entire play-through.
2. “John” – Lil Wayne feat. Rick Ross (2011)
Hitmaka’s first hit record as a co-producer, “John, ” became one of his biggest hits. The second official single from Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter IV, “John” peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. A product of the mixtape era, the instrumental also saw freestyles from Ace Hood, Jim Jones, and more.
Co-produced alongside Polo Da Don, Ayo The Producer, and others, Hitmaka combined his skills with veterans of the production game. Though still technically billed as Yung Berg in those days, this song was the beginning of a long and successful production career. The certified 2x platinum-selling record is one of many hits from Hitmaka’s production catalog.
1.”Rule The World” – 2 Chainz feat. Ariana Grande (2019)
This hit single from Rap or Go To The League was a definite highlight of 2 Chainz’s album. A big part of the gold-selling record’s success is the captivating catchy instrumental by Hitmaka. Sampling “Why Don’t We Fall in Love” by Amerie, the beat captures the same vibe as Hitmaka’s other R&B productions. The already smooth beat, updated with sparkly pianos and synths, creates a smooth and mellow sound that is perfect for Ariana Grande’s soft vocals.
Certified gold by the RIAA, the track peaked at No. 37 on the US Billboard Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Songs. While Hitmaka has higher selling and charting records to his credit, this song was a sleeper hit. The track caught the fanbases of 2 Chainz and Ariana Grande off guard. Fans were pleased with a hot collab and the instrumental that does it justice.